The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is a family-friendly aquarium located right on the waterfront in Sidney. It's the only aquarium in Canada that focuses entirely on the incredible marine life of the Salish Sea, a unique inland sea home to thousands of fascinating creatures.

Inside, you’ll find more than 160 species of local sea life, including the ever-popular giant Pacific octopus, glowing jellyfish, and the quirky wolf eel. One of the most exciting spots is the touch pool, where kids (and adults!) can gently hold sea stars, anemones, and urchins with help from the friendly staff. The Centre is home to a real, 18-metre orca skeleton named "Ruffles"!

Plus, you’ll see beautiful Coast Salish Indigenous art that shares important cultural stories of this region. It’s a popular spot for school groups and birthday parties.