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Coral World Ocean Park: An Underwater Adventure

Discover the beauty of Caribbean marine life at Coral World Ocean Park, St. Thomas' premier underwater adventure and conservation center.

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Coral World Ocean Park, located next to Coki Beach in St. Thomas, offers a unique blend of marine encounters and educational exhibits. Since 1978, it has showcased Caribbean marine life through an underwater observatory, coral reef encounter tank, and interactive programs. Visitors can explore diverse marine species and participate in activities like sea lion swims and shark encounters.

A brief summary to Coral World Ocean Park

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the cruise ship schedule to avoid crowds, as Coki Point can get busy when multiple ships are in port.
  • Combine your visit with snorkeling at Coki Beach, known for its clear waters and abundant marine life.
  • Consider booking animal encounters in advance, as time slots may fill up quickly.
  • Bring cash for taxis, rentals, food, and drinks, as many vendors prefer cash payments.
  • Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs and marine life.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from most points on St. Thomas to Coral World Ocean Park. From Charlotte Amalie or the Cyril E. King Airport, a taxi ride to Coral World will take approximately 25-30 minutes. Taxi fares in St. Thomas are per person, per destination, and are not metered. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Expect to pay around $15-$20 per person from the cruise ship docks. Additional fees may apply for luggage or waiting time.

  • Public Transport

    Public buses, also known as 'dollar rides,' operate on St. Thomas. To reach Coral World, take the bus heading towards Red Hook and ask the driver to be dropped off at the Coki Point Road. From the bus stop, it's approximately a 10-12 minute walk to the park entrance. The bus fare is $2 per person, exact change required. Be aware that bus schedules can be unreliable. The nearest bus stop is a little over half a mile away along the main public road.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow Route 38 (Smith Bay Road) east. Turn left at the Coral World sign, located above Louie's Market, about a quarter mile past the Texaco gas station. Alternatively, follow the blue Tommy Starfish road signs to Route 388. Free parking is available for Coral World patrons. Display the parking permit issued upon entry on your dashboard to avoid being booted if you also visit Coki Beach. Note that parking can be hectic on crowded days.

Unlock the Best of Coral World Ocean Park

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Discover more about Coral World Ocean Park

Coral World Ocean Park, a marine park and tourist attraction, is situated adjacent to Coki Beach on the East End of St. Thomas. Since opening in 1978, the park has provided visitors with opportunities to explore the wonders of Caribbean marine life. The park's signature attraction is the Underwater Observatory Tower, descending 20 feet into the ocean, offering views of marine life in its natural habitat. The 80,000-gallon Caribbean Reef Encounter tank houses local fish and sea creatures. Other exhibits include Shark Shallows, Turtle Pool, and Stingray Lagoon. Visitors can also see iguanas and colorful lorikeets. Coral World focuses on education and interaction, offering touch encounters, feedings, and guided tours. Visitors can swim with sea lions, snorkel with sharks, or participate in the Sea Trek helmet dive. The park also functions as a rehabilitation center for rescued sea turtles. Coral World is dedicated to marine conservation, educating visitors about the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems.

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