Gulf Breeze Zoo

14 Aug 2024    Destin

Gulf Breeze Zoo is exactly how it sounds; it is a huge, 50-acre zoo located in Gulf Breeze, Florida, near the beautiful Gulf Coast. It is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including both exotic and native species. The zoo is particularly known for its interactive experiences, allowing visitors to get up close with some animals.   

If you are someone who is looking for a family-friendly adventure filled with wildlife and interactive experiences, Gulf Breeze Zoo is the perfect destination. Here you can get so many unique things to do from giraffes feeding to exploring the lush botanical gardens, there's something for everyone at Gulf Zoo. It is for sure! In the stunning beauty of Florida, you can explore the different kinds of wildlife experience, offering interactive encounters and marine life exhibits.

Moreover, the Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to more than 800 animals where you can learn and examine more than 100 species some are primates, exotic birds, big cats, and so on. 

So, don’t miss the chance,  plan your trip to the Gulf Coast today and get ready to make memories for years to come!

Gulf Breeze Zoo Animals

Are you ready to meet the friendly, giraffe, hippo, Rhino and tortoise? Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to an incredible variety of animals including mammals, birds, farm animals, reptiles, and amphibians from all around the world. 

Some of the most popular and fascinating creatures you can encounter during your visit:

Giraffes

Giraffes are the tallest land animals, with necks that can reach up to 18 feet long! At Gulf Breeze Zoo, visitors can experience the thrill of feeding these gentle giants. Their long tongues, which can be up to 20 inches, are adept at grasping leaves and branches, making the feeding encounter a truly memorable experience for you.

Big Cats (Lions, Tigers, Leopards)

Dangerous but can be exciting to watch! The big cats at Gulf Zoo are a striking display of power and grace. Lions, often called the "King of the Jungle," are known for their majestic manes and social behaviour, living in pride. Tigers, with their distinctive stripes, are solitary hunters and can swim, a unique trait among big cats. Leopards are extremely agile and can carry prey much larger than themselves up trees to keep them safe from scavengers.

Primates (Gorillas, Lemurs, Monkeys)

Want to watch a wild mirror of human behaviour in Gulf Breeze Zoo Animals? Gorillas are one of the most intelligent animals, with social structures and behaviours that closely resemble those of humans. Watching them interact, communicate, and use tools is a fascinating experience. Lemurs, native to Madagascar, are known for their large, reflective eyes and unique vocals. The zoo’s monkeys are always active, swinging from branches and showcasing their acrobatic skills, which make them a favourite among visitors

Zebras

Each zebra's stripe pattern is unique, much like a human fingerprint. These patterns help with camouflage, confuse predators, and even regulate body temperature. Seeing these beautiful Gulf Breeze Zoo animals closely on the Safari Line Train ride offers a special appreciation for their striking black-and-white coats.

Parakeets (Budgies)

The Budgie Adventure Aviary is a colourful whirlwind of activity. Budgies are known for their vibrant colours and socially adaptable nature. What’s exciting here is the opportunity to feed them directly, as they are likely to land on your hand or shoulder, creating a delightful and interactive experience.

Flamingos

These birds are famous for their pink feathers, which they acquire from their diet rich in carotenoids found in algae and shrimp. You can experience it the first time to watch these flamingos balance on one leg a behaviour that scientists believe helps conserve body heat. Can be a fascinating sight!

Peafowl

Most breathtaking show of colour and elegance at Gulf Zoo! Male peafowls, or peacocks, are renowned for their extravagant tail feathers, which they fan out in a dazzling display during mating season. The intricate patterns and iridescent colours of their feathers are a true spectacle to behold.

Giant Tortoises

These ancient reptiles can live for over a century and grow to enormous sizes. Their slow movements and long lifespans offer a unique perspective on the animal kingdom, symbolizing endurance and resilience.

Snakes

Why is Gulf Breeze Zoo one of Florida's top attractions? The reptile house at Gulf Zoo showcases various snake species, some of which have extraordinary abilities like infrared vision, which allows them to detect warm-blooded prey even in complete darkness. You can learn about their unique hunting techniques and the diversity of their species is both educational and thrilling.

Goats, Sheep, and Pigs

The petting zoo offers hands-on interaction with friendly farm animals, providing a great opportunity for children to learn about domestic animal behaviour. Goats, known for their curious and playful nature, often climb and nibble, making them particularly entertaining to watch and feed.

So, which animal is your favourite? If you are an animal lover and willing to explore this paradise then plan your visit to Gulf Zoo today.

Gulf Breeze Zoo Tickets Price

Admissions are affordable, with discounts available for children, seniors, and military personnel. 
Animals feeding may have extra charges!
Here’s a quick guide to Gulf Breeze Zoo's price for 2024, making it easy to choose the best option for you and your family.

Ticket Category Adventure Pass Pricing
Kids Under 2 Free
Children (2-12) $20.95
Adult (13-64) $27.95
Senior (65+) $25.95

For the latest updates, check the zoo's website for offers and promotions.

Gulf Breeze Zoo Hours

The zoo is open 7 days a week, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy all the exhibits and attractions. However, please note that Gulf Zoo will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024, and Christmas Day, December 25, 2024.

Gulf Breeze Zoo Hour are:

  • January 1 to February 29 - Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Last admission at 3:00 PM)
  • March 1 to October 31 - Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:00 PM)
  • November 1 to December 31 - Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Last admission at 3:00 PM)

Make sure to arrive before the last admission time to fully experience everything the zoo has to offer. Gulf Breeze Zoo is ready to welcome you!

Attractions at Gulf Breeze Zoo 

Are you brave enough to feed the animals? Each animal at Gulf Zoo offers something unique, whether it’s their appearance, behaviour, or interaction with visitors. This visit to the zoo is not just an educational experience but also an exciting adventure where you can learn about the wonders of the animal kingdom firsthand. 
And the best part is, how exciting is it to hand-feed animals? If you also want to take advantage of feeding animals with your hands then Gulf Zoo in Florida can be your favourite place for this trill.

Here is the list of the zoo’s most fascinating animals to experience a personal interaction with:

  • Giraffe Feeding - Don’t miss the chance to feed this long-neck animal! The thrill of feeding a towering giraffe with their long neck and gentle nature, giraffes are always a favourite of Gulf Breeze Zoo can also be an unforgettable experience for you.
  • Camel Feeding - Get ready to meet the friendly and curious camels. These hardy animals are known for their distinctive humps and gentle disposition. Feeding a camel is not just fun; it’s also a great way to learn about these fascinating creatures.
  • Scottish Highland Cow Feeding - Let’s interact, shall we? These shaggy, long-haired cows with their majestic horns are as gentle as they are impressive. Feeding the Scottish Highland cows offers a special opportunity to interact with this iconic breed, known for their resilience and friendly nature.
  • American Alligator Feeding (Seasonal) - For a more thrilling experience of Gulf Breeze Zoo animals, try feeding the American alligators! Available seasonally, this activity gives you the chance to safely feed one of nature’s most formidable predators, adding a touch of excitement to your visit.

For more such attractions, you can visit the website of the Zoo and plan your day.

What You Should Know Before Visiting Gulf Zoo Florida

To ensure you have the best experience possible at Gulf Zoo, here are some essential tips and guidelines to keep in mind before your visit:

Age Requirements at Gulf Breeze Zoo

Children Under 6: For safety reasons, children under the age of 6 are not permitted to participate in certain encounters.

Children Ages 6-12: Must be accompanied by a paying adult to join any animal encounters or special activities.

Participant Limits

Encounter Capacity: Each animal encounter is limited to just 10 participants, so it’s a good idea to book early to secure your spot.

Duration of each animal encounter at Gulf Zoo

The duration of each encounter is approximately 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy and interact with the animals.

Some Additional Tips to Follow

  • Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended to ensure your safety and comfort during the experience.
  • Check-in at the Giraffe Food Hut, where you will receive further instructions for your encounter.
  • Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled encounter time. The experience begins promptly, and late arrivals will not be allowed to join.
  • With limited spots available for encounters, it’s wise to book your tickets in advance.
  • Florida’s weather can be hot and humid if you are visiting in summer, so be sure to drink plenty of water during your visit.
  • Capture those special moments with the animals in Gulf Breeze Zoo photos, but remember to enjoy the experience in the moment as well.

Conclusion 

Be ready for a memorable day at Gulf Breeze Zoo! Whether you're a resident or visiting the Gulf Coast, Gulf Zoo is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families. With its diverse animal exhibits, interactive experiences, and beautiful gardens, the zoo offers a full day of fun and adventure for all ages.

So make your plan to visit Gulf Breeze Zoo Florida today!