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Private Events2026-06-05T16:56:16-05:00

Private Events

Book An Unforgettable Private Event!

At the Gulfarium, we provide an exceptional venue for hosting private events in a variety of unique and captivating settings. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, family celebration, special occasion party, or a wedding, our facility offers an extraordinary backdrop that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Located on the beautiful Emerald Coast, we ensure that every event is infused with the magic of marine life and stunning views, creating unforgettable memories for you and your attendees.

We host a wide range of events, including:

Let us help you make your next event truly memorable!

Imagine what your event could look like here!

Discover Your Perfect Private Event Venue

Discover Your Perfect Private Event Venue

At the Gulfarium, we specialize in hosting private events that combine marine beauty with unique experiences, ensuring your gathering is truly unforgettable. Conveniently located on Okaloosa Island between Fort Walton Beach and Destin, our venue offers easy access for both you and your guests. With enchanting views from the Living Sea Room, picturesque outdoor settings at Seal Harbor, and the breathtaking Dolphin Oasis, each location serves as the perfect backdrop for corporate gatherings, family celebrations, cocktail parties, or special occasion parties. Explore our diverse venue options to discover the ideal space for your next memorable event!

Living Sea Aquarium

The Living Sea Room immerses guests in vibrant aquarium views, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your special event. This enchanting indoor venue ensures an unforgettable experience surrounded by marine life.

Seal Harbor Beachfront

Seal Harbor provides a picturesque outdoor setting for any occasion, featuring stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Exchange vows in a tranquil atmosphere that captures the essence of coastal romance.

Dolphin Oasis

Dolphin Oasis combines lush sandy dunes and sparkling waters, offering a unique backdrop for your celebration. With playful dolphins enhancing the experience, your event becomes an extraordinary adventure in a stunning coastal paradise.

destination wedding with a couple kissing behind a penguin

Cocktail Functions

Cocktail Functions

Host an unforgettable cocktail function with us, where stunning marine backdrops and unique experiences create the perfect setting for your event! With a minimum of 15 guests, our venue offers a variety of spaces to suit your needs, complete with tables, bar attendants, and all necessary supplies. Enjoy exclusive access to our beautiful surroundings while your guests mingle and celebrate against the enchanting backdrop of our marine life. Explore our various locations below to find the ideal spot for your cocktail gathering!

Price starting at $650

The Living Sea Aquarium Room offers a captivating indoor setting with breathtaking views of vibrant aquariums that will mesmerize your guests. This spacious venue, featuring a full wall of 8-foot-high aquarium windows, is perfect for intimate gatherings or larger cocktail functions, accommodating up to 220 guests. With audio/visual capabilities and an integrated sound system, it provides an ideal atmosphere for presentations or dancing, making your event truly memorable.

Price starting at $1,000

Experience the beauty of the Dolphin Oasis, our stunning outdoor space surrounded by sandy dunes and lush palms, with picturesque views of the dolphins. This beach-themed venue can host up to 400 guests, offering a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere for your cocktail function. Enjoy the natural surroundings while creating lasting memories with your guests as they take in the sights and sounds of the Gulf Coast.

Price starting at $1,500

The Park Wide option provides a unique combination of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to create an event that spans the entirety of the Gulfarium. With breathtaking animal exhibits and beach front views, this versatile location can accommodate up to 600 guests. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to host a grand cocktail function, offering a dynamic environment where guests can explore and celebrate amid the wonders of marine life.

Baby Showers & Gender Reveals

Baby Showers & Gender Reveals

Looking to make your baby shower or gender reveal stand out? Host it “under the sea” and customize it with our animal add-on options. With multiple décor and theming options, you can create a custom event that will get people talking.

  • Price: $330 for up to 10 attendees / $28 for each additional guest (ages 2 and under do not count)
    • 15% service charge
  • Total Guests: Up to 30 guests
  • Time Slots: subject to availability
    • 10am – 12pm
    • 2pm – 4pm
  • What’s Included:
    • General Admission for All Guests
    • 2 Hours in Designated Party Space
    • Tables & Chairs
    • Paper Plates, Napkins, Cups, Table Coverings
    • 2 Pitcher of Beverages of your Choice
    • Themed Décor (Shark, Mermaid, Under the Sea)
  • Bring in Your Own:
    • Decorations – you’ll be allowed into the party area 15 minutes before party to decorate
    • Food & Beverages – please note not alcohol is allowed and the items must stay in the Party Area and cannot walk the park.
  • Add-Ons: must be booked 2 weeks in advance
    • Reptile Meet & Greet — $100
    • Living Sea Diver with Sign — $250
      • “Baby ______, coming _______”
    • Gender Reveal Specific
      • Living Sea Diver — $250
        • Giant Clam Shell with pearl of color (blue / pink)
      • Penguin Pacifier Bearer — $250
        • Both options include a Discover Dolphins encounter where a dolphin reveals the gender by bringing a special buoy to the couple

  • Price: Per Person Per Hour Rate with a $500 minimum (prices vary based on weekday/weekend/seasonal)
    • ages 2 and under do not count
    • 20% service charge
  • Total Guests: 10-200 (varies based on location)
  • Time Slots: subject to availability
    • Earliest start time is at 5pm or 6pm depending on time of year
  • What’s Included:
    • Tables & Chairs
    • Custom Layout
    • Trash Service
    • Security
  • Bring in Your Own:
    • Decorations – various themes
    • Food & Beverages – you are welcome to bring in any caterer you would like. Vendor recommendation list upon request
  • Add-Ons: must be booked 2 weeks in advance
    • Private Park Time – in 30min intervals
    • Decorations
    • Beverage Package
    • Linens
    • Food & Beverage related services
    • Animal Specific
      • Reptile Meet & Greet — $475
      • Photo Sessions (i.e. dolphin, sealion, penguin) – prices based on packages
    • Living Sea Diver with Sign — $250
      • “Baby ______, coming _______”
    • Gender Reveal Specific
      • Living Sea Diver — $250
        • Giant Clam Shell with pearl of color (blue / pink)
      • Penguin Pacifier Bearer — $250
        • Both options include a Discover Dolphins encounter where a dolphin reveals the gender by bringing a special buoy to the couple

Parties, Banquets, Dances, Ceremonies & More

Parties, Banquets, Dances, Ceremonies & More

Everyone loves a good party! Create an unforgettable party in one or more of our unique locations. Take the hassle out of party planning with the use of one of our Event Coordinators, décor & linen rental services, or even adding on unique animal encounters.

Enhance Your Experience: Additional Add-Ons

Enhance Your Experience: Additional Add-Ons

Animal Add-ons

Bring your celebration to life with unforgettable animal encounters that will delight your guests!

Event Coordinators

Enjoy a stress-free day with our expert coordinator, ensuring every detail is perfectly executed!

Private Park Time

Elevate your experience with exclusive access to the park, creating memorable moments in a serene setting!

Discover more about Your special day!

Discover more about Your special day!

Speak with Our Event Planner

Let our events team contact you by completing the form below. We look forward to hearing about your special day.

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How to Get Here

Find directions to our stunning venue, conveniently located between Fort Walton Beach and Destin with easy access to Okaloosa Island’s amenities. Your journey starts here.

Events Questions

How can I book a private event at the Gulfarium?2025-04-29T09:48:02-05:00

To book a private event or inquire about availability, please contact our dedicated events team. They will guide you through the booking process and assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

Is the Gulfarium accessible for guests with disabilities?2023-09-28T11:14:12-05:00

Yes, we are committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all guests. Our facility is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking.

Is there parking available for private event guests?2025-04-29T09:59:23-05:00

Yes, the Gulfarium provides ample free parking for event guests. Our team will provide information on parking arrangements and any additional assistance needed.

Can I have catering services for my private event at Gulfarium?2026-08-21T15:52:27-05:00

The Gulfarium does not provide in-house catering for after-hours events, but we do have a list of preferred catering vendors. We are also open to working with outside vendors as long as they meet our requirements and guidelines. Our team can provide additional information and help coordinate vendor arrangements.

Can I customize my private event package?2025-04-29T10:01:40-05:00

Absolutely! We offer customizable event packages to suit your preferences, budget, and specific requirements. Our event coordinators will work closely with you to design a package that meets your needs and brings your vision to life.

Can I incorporate marine animal encounters into my private event?2023-09-28T11:01:52-05:00

Yes! One of the unique features of hosting an event at Gulfarium is the opportunity to include marine animal encounters. Your guests can interact with dolphins, penguins, and other fascinating marine creatures, creating unforgettable memories.

More questions?

See full FAQs page or contact us at specialevents@gulfarium.com

destination wedding with a couple kissing behind a penguin
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