The History of Florida's Gulfarium

Florida's Gulfarium was started by a gentleman who had a dream. That man is Brandy Siebenaler. His dream was to learn as much as possible about marine life and then teach as many people as he could. The fulfillment of his dream began at the University of North Carolina where he earned a degree in aquatic and marine biology. Siebenaler then attended the University of Miami, Florida to study his graduate level work. After his academic studies were completed, he was involved in many projects with several different science and research facilities. He was involved in the project to design the University of Miami marine research lab. This lab continues to support the studies of marine life. Siebenaler also served as a consultant to the state of Florida for water systems and marine animal water maintenance systems.

In 1952, while doing research for the University of Miami, Siebenaler located a spot in Fort Walton Beach, Florida to complete his dream. With his academic pursuits behind him, he then set his sights on teaching the world and in 1954, the project was underway. Florida's Gulfarium opened on August 15, 1955, with a staff of about twenty trained individuals and continues to call the Emerald Coast its home. Florida's Gulfarium is the oldest continuously operated marine show aquarium in the entire world! It is located on several acres of Gulf of Mexico beach front. The Emerald Coast has 24 miles of sugar-white sandy beaches, hiking trails, fishing holes, boating facilities, international cuisine, malls, outlet stores, ballet, theater, symphony, art studios, museums, and amusement parks.

With research assistance from his marine scientist colleagues, Siebenaler created a technically successful operation. These scientists pioneered the technology that pumps water from the Gulf of Mexico through specially designed filtration systems. Nearly one million gallons of sea water are required for the various tanks and animal exhibits. Massive pumps and filters operate night and day to maintain water quality and clarity. Florida's Gulfarium continues to research and develop ways to improve water quality and the health of our animal inhabitants.

In the early 90's, renovations began at the marine life facility. However, Hurricane Opal of 1995 had other plans for Florida's Gulfarium. Opal's brut force punished the Gulf Coast and severely damaged the facility. Although the damage to the property was extensive, the animal inhabitants of Florida's Gulfarium fared well. With determination and hard work, the staff repaired the damage so that normal operations could continue. Since 1996, the staff has continually made improvements to modernize existing exhibits and create new attractions. Florida's Gulfarium is now better than ever, continuing Brandy Siebenaler's dream to teach the general public about marine life.

Florida's Gulfarium is the home to a variety of animals, including Bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, tropical penguins, American alligators, moray eels, and sea turtles. A 60,000 gallon Living Sea Aquarium and a 400,000 gallon dolphin tank provide homes to several marine species that are native to the northwest Florida waters. Other animals you'll find at Florida's Gulfarium include: seals, sharks, stingrays, pelicans, and more.

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Florida's Gulfarium - 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway - Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
850-243-9046 - 800-247-8575
info@gulfarium.com