Sarasota is preparing to welcome an exciting new addition to its cultural and educational landscape: the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA).
This state-of-the-art facility is designed to inspire learning, showcase marine life, and expand public access to groundbreaking research.
Whether you’re a local or planning a vacation, Mote SEA is a must-see attraction that combines science with family-friendly experiences.
About The Expansion
Mote SEA is part of a significant expansion effort led by Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. The new aquarium is designed to provide greater space for exhibits, research, and educational programming. Its central location near I-75 makes it more accessible to visitors from across Florida and beyond.
The goal of this expansion is twofold: to enhance public engagement with marine science and to free up the original City Island campus for dedicated research. With more than double the current aquarium’s capacity, Mote SEA will welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
About The Aquarium
The new aquarium will feature over one million gallons of water, bringing marine habitats to life in extraordinary detail. Guests can expect immersive exhibits showcasing sharks, manatees, coral reefs, and deep-sea creatures. The facility will also highlight Florida’s unique coastal ecosystems, making it an educational journey for all ages.
Families staying in one of our Siesta Key condo rentals will find the aquarium just a short drive away, making it a convenient day trip during their vacation. Combining a beach getaway with a visit to Mote SEA allows travelers to experience both natural beauty and educational adventure in one trip.
Research Programs
Beyond public exhibits, Mote SEA supports critical marine research. Programs focus on coral reef restoration, sea turtle conservation, shark biology, and ocean technology. By creating interactive displays and behind-the-scenes experiences, the aquarium connects visitors directly to this vital work.
Guests can also participate in hands-on learning programs designed to encourage curiosity about ocean conservation. For those staying in our Siesta Key luxury condo rentals, the aquarium provides an opportunity to balance relaxation with meaningful engagement in environmental stewardship.
Supporting research through education is a central part of Mote’s mission. The expanded aquarium ensures that both tourists and residents can better understand the challenges facing our oceans—and how science is working to solve them.
Things to Do Nearby
For anyone planning a more extended trip, there are plenty of things to do in Siesta Key beyond visiting the aquarium. The area is home to award-winning beaches, watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking, and lively dining and shopping districts. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or group of friends, you’ll find activities that fit every style of vacation.
Pairing these local attractions with the learning experience of Mote SEA creates a well-rounded trip filled with both fun and enrichment.
Plan Your Visit
Ready for the Mote Science Education Aquarium? Browse our full inventory of Siesta Key rentals to find your perfect accommodations!
Book Your Siesta Key Condo Rental with Ten35 Seaside Rentals
When planning your visit, choosing the right accommodations can make all the difference. Booking through Ten35 Seaside Rentals gives you access to a wide range of properties, from family-friendly options to upscale condo rentals in Siesta Key with Gulf views and modern amenities.
After a day of exploring marine life at the new Mote SEA, you’ll appreciate the comfort of returning to a private rental where you can relax and recharge. With our professional service and convenient locations, your trip to Sarasota will be seamless from start to finish.
