Coral World Ocean Park

Coral World sits on a point of land next to Coki Beach. The signature piece is the undersea observatory: you walk down into a tower and look out, through large windows, at the reef that is actually there — not a tank painted to look like one.

Where: 6450 Coki Point Road, East End
Time: 2–3 hours; longer with an encounter
Cost: About $29 adults, $17 ages 3–12

Best for. Families and anyone who wants the reef dry

What is actually there

General admission covers the circular Caribbean reef tank, outdoor pools, a lorikeet aviary, and the observatory tower that sits in open water. The park runs on circulating seawater and puts a lot of its time into talks about the animals and the reef.

If you want to get in the water, Sea Trek is a helmet walk on the bottom, and SNUBA is the step between snorkeling and scuba. Dolphin and sea lion programs are booked separately and fill on ship days.

Getting there

Taxis from the cruise docks or downtown run about twenty to twenty-five minutes; the shared fare is often quoted per person. If you drive, turn toward Coki Point off Smith Bay Road and park in the Coral World lot first so the car is permitted. Then walk down to the beach after the exhibits.