MaSTセンター水族館

An Up-Close Look at Puget Sound's Marine Life

Perched on the shores of Redondo Beach in Des Moines, Washington, the MaST Center Aquarium is a living classroom, a research lab, and a community treasure trove dedicated to unveiling the magic of Puget Sound. Operated by Highline College, this vibrant facility fosters curiosity through hands-on learning. With over 250 native species on display, interactive touch tanks, and more than 3,000 gallons of flow-through seawater powering its tanks, the MaST Center offers up-close encounters with creatures that usually remain hidden beneath the surface.

While the MaST Center is not open to the public daily, it hosts free, family-friendly Discovery Days every Saturday. Knowledgeable volunteers and marine experts guide you through the center, making the experience educational and fun.

Need to Know:

Native Species on Full Display – The MaST Center houses hundreds of native marine species—from colorful anemones to mesmerizing jellyfish—all thriving in tanks fed by natural seawater directly from Puget Sound. It's one of the most biodiverse educational aquariums in the state. Touch tanks allow guests to (gently) feel native marine creatures while learning about their roles in the ecosystem.

More Than an Aquarium – The fun starts when you enter the lobby, where a 38-foot skeleton of a Gray Whale greets you. There are also exhibits about various marine life species and art installations based on environmental topics.

Underwater Art - During the winter, the center displays an art gallery featuring winning submissions to its Underwater Photography Challenge. See incredible photos of fish and other marine creatures taken right in the waters at Redondo.

Picturesque Coastal Location – The aquarium's Redondo Beach site is not only scenic but also perfectly positioned near tidepools and marine habitats that further enhance the educational adventure. While there, take a walk on the Redondo Beach boardwalk.

The Vibe:
As part of Highline College, the MaST Center is a hub for marine biology students and researchers. Students, families, and marine enthusiasts mingle around tanks full of sea creatures, all within earshot of gentle waves lapping the shore outside.