The CMLC is open Wednesdays through Saturdays 11am-5pm.
We will be closed Friday July 4th for the holiday.

Part Aquarium,
Part Museum
ALL DISCOVERY
Welcome to the Charleston Marine Life Center
Located on the edge of the harbor in Charleston, the University of Oregon’s Charleston Marine Life Center is an exciting place of discovery for all ages, any time of the year. Aquaria highlight different coastal habitats and animals—from octopuses to colorful sea slugs, with a mesmerizing variety of life in between. Underwater videos from Oregon’s marine reserves and from undersea vents reveal the hidden and remarkable diversity of life offshore. Reach into the touch tank and feel the grasp of an anemone’s tentacles. Take a look at killer whale and gray whale skeletons from below and face to face. Use our microscopes to zoom into hidden details, and binoculars and spotting scopes to spy on seabirds. Soak up the harbor activity, enjoy a close-up view of the day’s catch being unloaded, and watch seals and sea lions a few feet away.
The CMLC is the public outreach center of the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, the University of Oregon’s marine biology research and teaching field station.
News and Upcoming Events
CMLC will be at the ‘Women in STEAM’ event at the Coos Bay Library, Saturday March 8th, 1-3pm
In celebration of International Women's Day, join the CMLC and other organizations for hands on STEAM activities - science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
Halloween Night at the Aquarium, Oct 31st, 4:30-7:30pm
Free family event. Put on your costume and enjoy spooky decor, Halloween crafts, costume parades, face painting, photo booth and more!
Music at the CMLC with Retrofit, Saturday August 31st, noon-1:30pm
You asked for more and they said yes--Retrofit, is playing another Music at the CMLC before summer ends. Enjoy exploring the CMLC while listening to eclectic acoustic music on guitar, mandolin and ukulele. Standard admission, no additional charge.