The Aquariums were established in 1976 to promote an awareness, understanding, appreciation, and conservation of the diverse natural and cultural resources associated with North Carolina's ocean, estuaries, rivers, streams, and other aquatic environments.

The North Carolina Aquariums are a division of the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The Aquariums are accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.

The North Carolina Aquariums continue to expand and improve. In 1976, the Aquariums had a little more than two hundred thousand visitors. Last year, the North Carolina Aquariums educated over one million visitors. The Aquariums have completed expansion of all three facilities, Pine Knoll Shores, Roanoke Island and Fort Fisher, doubling the size of each.