It's cold outside, and although beach season is just a couple more months away, the ocean lovers among us are starting to go a little stir-crazy. Why not bridge the gap between winter and spring by binge watching some beautiful, educational, ocean documentaries on Netflix? We rounded up a few of our favorites (as well as the ideal snacks to pair!) for an afternoon of relaxing blue planet bliss. Be sure to call out any of your favorites in the comments and let us know how you're spending the last few chilly months out of the year before it's back to the beach and back in the water!

End of the Line
Note: This is a very serious documentary about the dangers of industrial fishing. It contains some disturbing images and information. Pair with wine--a lot of it. `

Released in 2009, this documentary was the first to expose, highlight, and share the impacts as well as the consequences of industrial fishing. This film has been eye-opening, specifically about a topic that deeply affects everyone but isn't widely discussed. End of the Line expertly blends moving, emotionally touching visuals with scientific data, compelling research and evidence. While it could easily feel dry, it's immediately engaging. The filmmakers intentionally set out to build a strong foundation of information, helping teach the risks of unregulated fishing--not just on the ocean's ecosystem, but across our entire planet. Featuring evidence and data from biologists, End of the Line hypothesizes that our global fishing stock will be depleted as early as 2048, unless we change the process. Not only does it share the results of over-fishing, but it gets into the legal loopholes of industrial fishing. Disturbing, shocking, but ultimately hopeful, this film is deeply rousing for nature lovers and casual viewers alike.

Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin
Note: This series covers everything from coastal parks to unique sea life. Pair with Chex Mix and gummy worms, to get a taste of everything.

This Emmy-Award winning show consists of 30-minute episodes with a conservationist lean. Beautifully filmed with humor, passion, and insight, it's not only educational about aquatic life, but about coastal ecosystems and the people working to protect them. Each episode features a look at a couple of ocean species, as well as a deeper dive into ocean-adjacent creatures, such as iguanas, crabs, birds, fresh water fish, and seals, sea lions, and walrus. With Jeff Corwin's authentic passion, wealth of knowledge, and charm, you'll be done with each season before you know it.

Blue Planet: The Natural History of Oceans
Note: This soothing British documentary needs a refined, yet comforting snack--we like tea with jam and toast, or maybe some Earl Grey ice cream and shortbread.

The BBC has a reputation for producing high-quality entertainment, specifically documentaries, and this award-winning eight-part series is no exception. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, Blue Planet: The Natural History of Oceans is an epic, sprawling dive into the deepest trenches, the brightest reefs, and the most stunning beaches in the world. This series is grounded in passion for the ocean as well as conservation, but doesn't cut any corners on artistic production. With a stunning score, breathtaking cinematography, and exquisite narration, it's no surprise this series won so many awards. Although the series was filmed over several years, it never feels dated or thin--instead it weaves a rich, complex story that's approachable for all viewers, from curious youngsters to burgeoning marine biologists. Be sure to turn all the lights down and curl up with a blanket to fully immerse yourself in the advanced filming techniques and never-before-seen oceanic footage.

Turtle: The Incredible Journey
Note: This documentary follows a proud mama turtle on a mission. Pair with your great-great grandma's chocolate chip cookies to connect to your own heritage.

Watch as a female loggerhead turtle forges her path through life, survival, and motherhood. This heartwarming film tracks a sweet turtle on the same route as her ancestors: one of the most extraordinary journeys in the natural world! Beginning at a beach in Florida, she surfs the Gulf Stream, playing in the warm waters all the way up north. She chills i n the North Atlantic, makes her way to Africa, and ultimately back to the beach where she was born. But not everything is as easy as catching a warm swell for this lovely loggerhead--sadly, only ten thousand of the two million turtles that are hatched each year actually survive, but only one in ten thousand will make it back to lay their eggs. Will she make it? Or will she be another victim to mother nature?

If you're like us, your love of the ocean touches just about every part of your life. It inspires your vacations, dictates your warm weekends, and makes planning parties simple. But how can you bring your passion for sea life into your home? One of the best hobbies for naturalists with an affinity for the deep are fishtanks. From tropical to salt water to freshwater, the options are endless and range in levels of difficulty, ensuring that it's a hobby that can grow with you. Fishtanks are soothing, relaxing, and beautiful ways to experience the beauty of the beach, as well as educational for kids.

So, you're ready to start fish keeping, but aren't sure the best way to begin? We asked some of our expert aquarium fanatic friends for their tips and tricks to keeping a balanced, healthy, and thriving ecological habitat in their homes. Remember--fishtanks require a lot of effort and commitment, and even the most simple of tanks need care, so be sure it's a project you are dedicated to before you begin, otherwise you can risk the lives of whatever creatures find their way into your tank.

Tristain, a tank keeper for ten years, swears by thoughtful fish selection. "A freshwater tank is the best place for beginners to start learning. There are fewer pH balancing issues, the cost is more affordable, and you can find much heartier fish for your tank. You want to look for fish who can survive in less than perfect conditions, since you'll be in a learning curve, and won’t be as physically threatened by changes in the water parameters. I love neon tetra. Although they're small, they are gorgeous little freshwater fish. They're incredibly active, and love being in groups, so you don't have to worry about them hurting one another. Their diet is really basic--fish flakes. They do enjoy treats of blood worms or brine shrimp every once in a while, but you'll be very satisfied with a tank of these stunning fish."

Abeliene, a pet shop manager and aquarium enthusiast, encourages new tankers to be cautious when selecting decor. "So many people think they can just throw in a little plaster castle and some hot pink gravel and be done with it, but the fact is, aquariums should best replicate the fishes natural environment. That means sand, aquatic plants, and biodiversity. You want to select tank decor that suits your pet's needs--for example, shy fish need plenty of places to hide, like rocks or plants. Bottom feeders need gravel they can sift through and companion snails to keep down the algae. While stuff like little divers or sunken ships can be cute, some of the paint can flake off and be harmful to curious snackers. The accessories are truly the last thing to purchase and should be selected with your tank's ecology in mind--live plants are always better, as they help air circulation and provide a food source, and authentic ocean artifacts work best for stimulating fish. Check with your pet store and be sure to wash anything before putting it into the tank!"

Sarah-Rae, a high-school biology teacher, has maintained a classroom tank for three years. Her best advice? "Do not overfeed your fish! One feeding per day is plenty, no matter how hungry a ninth grader swears they look. Consult with your vet or pet store salesperson when making your food selection, and understand the needs of your breed of fish--some require feeding every other day! While flakes are perfect for most fish and will meet their nutritional needs, bottom feeders like sinking pellets. Even though they're scavengers, don't assume that they will be able to grab some flakes after the rest have had their meal. Another key point is not to overdo the amount--don't sprinkle in more than your fish can finish in a few minutes. Excess food makes the tank filthy and can change the chemical levels in your water, which can lead to hurting and even killing your school. I always hang a little sign right next to the tank with a feeding schedule, including the exact amounts and types of food. And remember--the more you feed your fish, the more waste they create, which can lead to an absolutely filthy and unhealthy tank!"

Christopher, a professional saltwater tank installer, has a very simple tip. "Don't treat fish like they are disposable. If you aren't ready to commit to their care, select another pet. Or maybe some snails. It's not fair to bring them into your home only to lose interest in a few days--aquariums require a time investment. If you find that it's too much for you, call your local high school to see if they'd like a tank donated to their art or science rooms for a class to take care of, but don't just let the fish die or get flushed. They are living creatures and they deserve respectful care."

For fans of the ocean's apex predators, sometimes watching shows, movies, and reading books just isn't enough. There is nothing quite like experiencing the majesty of sharks like a real life encounter--as long as it's not unexpected and in open water! Even if you don't live anywhere near a beach, there are plenty of incredible destinations, both near and far, where you can see your favorite creatures up close and personally. We rounded up some of the most stunning locations to experience sharks, both behind glass and under the waves. So as you're planning your post-holiday vacations, consider harnessing an adventurous spirit and head to one of these exciting locations.

Layang-Layang, Malaysia

Located in waters 2,000 meters deep, Layang Layang is a breathtaking atoll of thirteen connected coral reefs. The resort island is part of the six hundred South China Sea's islands, reefs, commonly known as The Spratlys. Colloquially known as Swallow Reef for the meaning of it's name, this is the best spot in the world to see hammerhead sharks. While the atoll itself isn't all that large, only covering an area of approximately fourteen square kilometers, it's waters are rich in marine life, creating the diving experience of a lifetime. The reef is intensely protected, and has never been fished or polluted, which has resulted in virgin biodiversity, securing it's reputation as the healthiest reef in Malaysia. The visibility is nearly flawless, which is perfect for viewing the schools of hammerheads known to cruise the reefs. The Gorgonian Forest is the most popular dive spot for sharks, with strong currents drawing in larger fish as well. Bottlebrush coral, giant clams, hawksbill turtles, and countless reef fish make an unforgettable landscape that will take the breath away from any dive aficionado.

Oahu, Hawaii

The third largest of Hawaii's islands boasts an impressive shark population. More than forty species of sharks call the waters surrounding Oahu home, including reef sharks, sandbar sharks, and hammerheads. North Shore Shark Adventures is so confident about their shark population, that will actually give you your money back if you don’t have a shark sighting on their tour. Three miles out to sea from Haleiwa Boat Harbor, you and up to eight others can huddle up in a dive cage for a twenty minute encounter under the waves with local sea life. The site is not just known for sharks, but dolphins and humpback whales, too. Luckily, all ages and levels of diving experience are welcome, so this is the perfect treat for shark-friendly families. But if you long for an even more adventurous activity, Hawaii Shark Encounters has state-of-the-art poly glass floating cages, where you can reach through the glass to touch interested sharks.

Georgia Aquarium

If swimming isn't your thing, head to beautiful Atlanta, GA to visit the stunning aquarium. With more than eight millions gallons of marine and fresh water, the Georgi Aquarium hosts more aquatic life than any other aquarium in the United States. For shark fans, be sure to scope out their resident whale shark. Due to their size and special needs, whale sharks are only found in two aquariums in the world. Located in the Ocean Voyager, an exhibit specially designed for the majesty of the enormous breed, you can view them through an acrylic tunnel, up close and personal. The whale shark is kept company by manta ray, stingrays, hammerhead sharks, and other magnificent sea life. For an extra fun treat, check out the aquarium's overnight sleepovers, where you can explore even more of their creatures after dark.

Mandalay Bay Shark Reef

Attention, Vegas lovers! The Mandalay Bay Hotel has the only predator-based aquarium in North America, with over two thousand different types of sea life, including an impressive assortment of sharks. They offer education courses, guided tours, and shark diving for certified divers. Their Shipwreck Exhibit is home to over thirty sharks, including white tip reef sharks, sand tigers, and sandbars, as well as sawfish, beautiful sea turtles, and rays. One of the coolest features in the diver's view tunnels, which allow those of us who prefer to stay on dry land and unparalleled view of their impressive tank. Expertly curated with a sinking temple motif, this walk is soothing, otherworldly, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The best part? Prices for admission start as low as just $20, making it a great destination for a family on a budget. Be sure to check out the touch pool exhibit for some hands on fun, as well as their majestic golden crocodiles, piranha, and over fifteen species of deep water predators.

Even if you aren't able to travel out of state or country for a shark encounter, check out your local aquariums or zoos for information on how to view your favorite sea life--you might be surprised at what you're able to find in your own back yard.