Gulf Specimen Aquarium, Panacea

About Gulf Specimen Aquarium

Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory in Panacea focuses on the smaller creatures and unusual animals of Florida's northern coast rather than large fish or marine mammals. Visitors view sea water tanks and aquariums housing seahorses, hermit crabs, emerald-eyed spiny boxfish, electric rays, and calico crabs. Some tanks are designated for looking only, while others allow touching, with signs and staff guidance indicating which tanks permit hands-on interaction. Children must be supervised at all times, as animals associate people with food and may have sharp teeth. The facility operates on weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM and weekends from 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The aquarium charges admission with different rates published online. Located on a quiet back street between the highway and the bay in Panacea, it provides an intimate look at north Florida's coastal marine life.