St. Augustine Aquarium celebrating groundbreaking

Another step forward for a new attraction for the First Coast.

The St. Augustine Aquarium breaks ground on Monday, and the first phase is set to open by mid- to late-June. Aquarium Co-Owner and Vice President Kathy Hiester says this phase will include an 80,000 gallon snorkel experience with Florida fish and rays, a zip line adventure, and other marine habitats.

“Really excited to be able to give everyone an opportunity to experience the Florida reef fish,” Hiester says.

The second phase, which should break ground later this year and open mid-2016, features a large habitat, sharks, and shipwreck modeled after a real shipwreck off the coast. Hiester says they’re working to really connect with not just marine life, but create a Florida and First Coast specific experience.

“Our mission is conservation through education,” she says.

Hiester says if you don’t want to get in and snorkel, there will still be plenty to do in the first phase. They’re working to have it open for the summer in order to attract children looking for a fun and educational way to spend their break.

The facility will be off I-95 and SR 16. The project is entirely privately funded.

Hiester says they will likely begin accepting applications for part time employees next month. They are looking to hire about 15 people now, but will also have several volunteer opportunities. Hiester also says she expects their job creation to further grow as the site does.