Last Updated on November 6, 2023
The history of Marineland, Florida is a fascinating story that began in the 1930s. It first opened as Marine Studios on June 23rd, 1938, where it promoted itself as “The World’s First Oceanarium.”
Today, Marineland Dolphin Adventure is a popular attraction because of its dolphin encounters and other aquatic experiences.
Located in Marineland, Florida, just south of St. Augustine, Marineland Dolphin Adventure has played an integral role in Florida’s tourism history.
This beloved attraction has offered visitors fun and educational marine encounters over the past 85 years.
We wanted to celebrate the history of Marineland Dolphin Adventure by reminiscing over some of the facility’s most notable milestones.
1937 – Envisioning Marine Studios
Marineland Dolphin Adventure began its story as Marine Studios. It was a concept first envisioned in 1937 by its founders, W. Douglas Burden, Cornelius Vanderbilt “Sonny” Whitney, and Ilya Tolstoy.
The concept of Marine Studios was to be an underwater film studio. Before the invention of underwater cameras and SCUBA, there was no way to get underwater footage.
1938 – The World’s First Oceanarium Opens
On June 23rd, 1938, Marine Studios held a preview where the public saw the world’s first oceanarium. A shocking 30,000 people showed up at the preview.
Many attendees could see aquatic species native to the Northeast Florida region for the very first time.
By creating an oceanarium, which houses all kinds of species together, the studio offered a unique opportunity in the world of filmmaking and news reels.
Popular films like “The Sea Around Us” (1953), a documentary produced by RKO, and “Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954), distributed by Universal Pictures, were shot at the facility.
“Revenge of the Creature” (1955), was the film debut of legend Clint Eastwood and “Secrets of the Reef ” (1956), premiered in New York City in 1957.
1947 – The First Dolphin is Born in Human Care
In 1947, a dolphin named Spray was born at Marine Studios. The facility made history as the site of the first dolphin successfully born into human care.
In addition, during this era, films and newsreels were being shot at the Marine Studios.
Popular films like “The Sea Around Us” (1953), a documentary produced by RKO, and “Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954), distributed by Universal Pictures, were shot at the facility.
Followed by the film “Revenge of the Creature” (1955), which was the debut of actor Clint Eastwood , and “Secrets of the Reef ” (1956) premiered in New York City in 1957.
1961 – Marine Studios Becomes Marineland
Marine Studios changed its name to Marineland in 1961, renaming itself after the town that had formed near it.
The town of Marineland was incorporated in 1946. This marketing move capitalized on the fact that the town was included on most maps.
1973 – Sea World Orlando Opens
SeaWorld opened in Orlando in 1973, competing with Disney World, which opened in 1971.
Undeniably, like many older roadside attractions in Florida, Marineland saw a decline in attendance. Generally, due to the popularity of the new Central Florida theme parks, it was challenging to compete.
2004-2006 – Marineland Closes for Renovations
In 2001, Jim Jacoby purchased Marineland. The facility closed to the public between 2004 and 2006, undergoing extensive renovations.
During renovations, most of Marineland’s original structures were demolished. Furthermore, the decades along the coast, coupled with hurricane damage, called for necessary updates to the attraction.
In 2006, it reopened as Marineland’s Dolphin Conservation Center. The new facility’s design put the needs of the animals at the forefront.
2011 – Georgia Aquarium Purchases Marineland
In 2011, Georgia Aquarium purchased Marineland’s Dolphin Conservation Center for 9.1 million dollars.
The facility’s name changed to Marineland Dolphin Adventure — the name it is still known as today.
2018 – The Reopening of Marineland’s Historic Arch
On May 31, 2018, Marineland reopened its historic arch entrance at a special ceremony.
The arch was renovated to celebrate and represent the facility’s 80-year history.
Today
Marineland Dolphin Adventure continues to focus its mission on the protection and preservation of marine life through education and research.
General admission to Marineland Dolphin Adventure includes viewing access to various marine habitats. Visitors can see sea turtles, sharks, and bottlenose dolphins.
They can also participate in different daily presentations. This includes Dolphin Talk, Shark Talk, and Turtle Talk.
Visitors can purchase additional interactive experiences for their visit to Marineland.
The Bottlenose Swim Adventure is a popular option, which includes an unforgettable swimming experience with one of the facility’s dolphins.
Another great experience is Aquarist for a Day. Visitors learn more about the care behind the scenes for maintaining various sea life that calls Marineland home.
More Information About Marineland
The Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and other influential groups accredit Marineland.
Learn more about the history of Marineland, Florida, by visiting its exhibits at the Oldest House Museum Complex in St. Augustine and the Flagler Beach Historical Museum in Flagler Beach.
Visiting Marineland Dolphin Adventure
- Marineland Dolphin Adventure is open daily from 8:30 am to 3 pm. (Hours may vary.)
- Reservations are recommended and may be booked online.
For more information, visit the official Marineland Dolphin Adventure website.
Marineland Dolphin Adventure Address: 9600 Oceanshore Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080
If you enjoyed this article about the history of Marineland and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions:
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