The Nicholas Sonntag TidePools Aquarium, formerly known as the Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre, is a charming 1,200-square-foot marine attraction situated inside the Gibsons Public Market on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, adjacent to the fjords of Howe Sound northwest of Vancouver. Operating as a collect-and-release aquarium through the BlueAct Marine Society, the facility houses over 70 species of local marine life collected from nearby harbours and bays across 30 distinct habitats. Visitors can explore interactive touch tanks, enjoy scavenger hunts, and connect with knowledgeable staff and volunteer interpreters. After a short stay, all animals are returned to the local marine environment, reflecting a deep commitment to ecosystem stewardship. Educational programs for schools, summer camps, and expert presentations make it an excellent destination for families and marine enthusiasts.
