Overview

• The park closed on Oct. 12 after decades of criticism over animal care that intensified following the 2023 death of killer whale Lolita.
• No relocation plan for the remaining animals has been announced, though the owner says their safety is the priority and the dolphins and sea lions could move to the company’s other parks.
• PETA and local activists gathered outside the gates to celebrate the closure and to urge humane transfers for the animals.
• Developer Terra Group has outlined a redevelopment concept featuring a marina, retail and restaurants, plus an accredited aquarium without marine mammals.
• Miami-Dade County owns the site, the parent company is in bankruptcy, a hearing is set for Oct. 17 on the lease sale, and the county commission will make final decisions.