The North Carolina Estuarium
223 East Water Street
On the Washington Waterfront
Washington, NC 27889

252.948.0000
FAX: 252.948-4747

www.partnershipforthesounds.org
estuary@beaufortco.org
About the Site

Estuaries are formed where fresh water and salt water mix together. They are vital ecosystems for many reasons, including the fact that over 90% of seafood species caught by North Carolina's fishermen such as blue crab, flounder and shrimp spend at least part of their lives in the state's estuaries.

Thousands of square miles of estuaries lie inside North Carolina's barrier island shoreline. Our state holds more estuarine waters than any other state on the east coast.

The North Carolina Estuarium is one of several facilities managed by the Partnership for the Sounds that celebrates these delicate ecosystems and what they mean to life in the "Soundlands." Exhibits, living aquariums, captivating audio/visual presentations and more combine art, science, nature and history into a complete educational experience at the Estuarium.

    Hours of Operation: 10-4, Tuesday through saturday
    Admission Fees: Adults $3.00; Students $2.00; Children 4 and under free
    Discounts: AAA
About the Facilities
  • Visitor center
  • Gift Shop
  • Free parking
  • Audio/visual presentation
  • Exhibits
    •

    Handicap Accessibility: Site is fully accessible

    Nearest Major Town/City: Washington, NC
    For Visitor Information:

    About the Programs

    Major Program Areas: Native American, Maritime, Ecology/Environmental, Eco-Tourism

    Education Resources:
  • Guided Tours
  • On-site interpretive activities
  • Staff interpreters
  • Off-site interpreters
  • Museum gallery tours
  • Boat tours
    •
  • Self-guided exhibits
  • Hands-on activities (when requested)
  • Off-site/outreach activities
  • Computer interactives
  • Classroom resources (workbooks, A/V, etc.)
  • Materials via web site
    •

    School Tour Requirements:
    • Maximum group size limit of 90 people
    • $2.00 per student plus additional, $2.00 if staff-led program requested
    • 1.5 hour tour
    • Curriculum-based tours for K-12

    Education Coordinator Contact: Linda Boyer