Cairns Aquarium
Explore Queensland's vibrant marine life and rainforest ecosystems, from the Great Barrier Reef to freshwater rivers, all in one immersive aquarium ex...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Cairns Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Queensland's vibrant marine life and rainforest ecosystems, from the Great Barrier Reef to freshwater rivers, all in one immersive aquarium experience.
"One of my favorite aquariums in Australia! My highlight was the Predators of the Reef tunnel with sharks and rays swimming overhead."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your tickets in advance through the official website.
🗣️ Attend Animal Talks
These sessions are highly informative and engaging, offering insights into marine life and conservation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Predators of the Reef Tunnel
Coral Sea Ecosystem
Walk beneath sharks and rays as they glide overhead. An immersive experience that brings the ocean's apex predators up close.
Rainforest River Ecosystem
Rainforest Exhibit
Discover the freshwater inhabitants of Queensland's lush rainforests, from turtles to unique fish species.
Great Barrier Reef Exhibit
Great Barrier Reef Ecosystem
Explore the vibrant biodiversity of the world-famous reef, showcasing colorful corals and diverse marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Embrace the Educational Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your tickets in advance through the official website.
🗣️ Attend Animal Talks
These sessions are highly informative and engaging, offering insights into marine life and conservation.
🦈 Don't Miss the Shark Tunnel
The Predators of the Reef tunnel is a standout experience, offering incredible close-up views of sharks and rays.
🚶♀️ Explore All Ecosystems
The aquarium showcases diverse environments from rainforests to the Coral Sea. Allow ample time to see everything.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your tickets in advance through the official website.
🗣️ Attend Animal Talks
These sessions are highly informative and engaging, offering insights into marine life and conservation.
🦈 Don't Miss the Shark Tunnel
The Predators of the Reef tunnel is a standout experience, offering incredible close-up views of sharks and rays.
🚶♀️ Explore All Ecosystems
The aquarium showcases diverse environments from rainforests to the Coral Sea. Allow ample time to see everything.
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
Exit through the gift shop, which features unique local and marine-themed souvenirs to remember your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cairns Aquarium for its stunning exhibits and the immersive journey through Queensland's diverse aquatic ecosystems. The Predators of the Reef tunnel and the educational talks are frequently highlighted as standout experiences. While some find the entry fee steep, most agree the quality and breadth of the displays justify the cost.
"Fantastic set up, loads of different creatures. Staff very friendly and helpful.
Beautiful aquarium and worth every cent. Before we entered we thought it was a bit pricy but once we were inside we definitely got more than our moneys worth."
Keri Keightley
"One of my favorite aquariums in Australia! My highlight was the Predators of the Reef tunnel with sharks and rays swimming overhead — amazing to see them up close. The aquarium takes you on a journey from rainforest rivers to the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea, with over 15,000 animals across different ecosystems.
I loved the shark talk and all the different presentations, which make it both fun and educational."
Steff N
"I visited this aquarium during a weeklong vacation to Queensland, just one day after going on a snorkeling trip on the Great Barrier Reef!! The aquarium does an amazing job at representing the reef and forest ecosystems of the area, and I appreciate that it's display collection is entirely dedicated to local wildlife!! It was fun to spot and identify fish that I recognized from the Reef, and learn more about them.
I wasn't on any kind of guided tour, but was able to experience parts of multiple educational animal talks and feeding times. The speakers were incredibly informative and passionate about the respective subjects, with the shark feeding/talk being my personal favorite!! Definitely recommend visiting to anyone in the area, whether you're a local or a visitor such as myself."
John Pempek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cairns Aquarium is conveniently located in the heart of Cairns, easily accessible by foot from most city hotels. Public transport options are also available.
There are several public car parks located within walking distance of the aquarium. Check local parking signs for rates and availability.
Yes, the aquarium is situated on the Esplanade, making it a pleasant walk from many accommodations and attractions along the waterfront.
The aquarium is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during peak seasons. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The Cairns Aquarium is an excellent indoor activity, perfect for escaping the weather and enjoying the marine life.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the entry fee is considered steep by some, many visitors find it justified by the quality and experience. Booking online in advance may offer slight discounts.
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but booking online is recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Check the official Cairns Aquarium website for any ongoing promotions or package deals. Sometimes, combo tickets with other attractions are available.
The aquarium typically offers various ticket types, including family passes. It's best to check their ticketing page for current options and pricing.
Refund policies vary, so it's crucial to review the terms and conditions when purchasing tickets online. Contact the aquarium directly for specific inquiries.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the Predators of the Reef tunnel, the Rainforest River ecosystem, and the Great Barrier Reef exhibit. Don't miss the educational talks and feeding sessions!
While the focus is on observation, the aquarium provides an immersive experience through its well-designed exhibits and informative talks.
You'll encounter over 16,000 specimens, including sharks, rays, turtles, tropical fish, and creatures from Queensland's rainforests and coral reefs.
Yes, it's highly recommended for all ages. Children are often captivated by the marine life, and the educational talks make it a fun learning experience.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the aquarium, but you could easily spend longer if you attend multiple talks and presentations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an eatery that offers views of the aquarium, providing a unique dining experience.
The cafe typically offers a range of light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to consume them before entering or utilize the onsite dining options.
Being located on the Esplanade, there are numerous restaurants and cafes nearby offering a variety of cuisines.
Dining prices can vary, but it's often considered a convenient option for a meal with a view. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for pricing.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check for signage.
The Predators of the Reef tunnel offers dramatic shots. The vibrant coral displays and unique fish species also make for excellent photo opportunities. 
Tripods and professional video equipment may require special permission. For personal use, standard cameras and phones are usually fine.
Short videos for personal use are generally permitted. However, extensive filming or commercial use might require prior authorization.
The lighting inside the aquarium is designed to showcase the exhibits. Mid-morning or late afternoon might offer slightly softer lighting, but it's consistently good.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Attend the animal talks and feeding sessions: These are often a highlight for kids, providing interactive learning opportunities.
* Explore the Rainforest River exhibit: It's a great introduction to freshwater creatures before diving into the marine world.
* Utilize the onsite cafe: It's a convenient spot for a quick bite or drink, perfect for refueling little ones.
* Consider the gift shop: While exiting, you can find souvenirs that will remind kids of their favorite sea creatures.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for any package deals or combo tickets that might be available, especially if you plan to visit other attractions in Cairns. Attending the free educational talks and feeding sessions also adds significant value to your visit without extra cost, making the experience more enriching.
🤓 Educational Enthusiasts
Make sure to prioritize attending the various talks and feeding demonstrations. These sessions are led by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about marine life and conservation, offering deep dives into animal behavior, biology, and the challenges facing these environments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey Through Ecosystems
From the rainforest, the experience transitions to the iconic Great Barrier Reef, where vibrant coral gardens and a dazzling array of fish species are on display. This section aims to replicate the feeling of being underwater on the reef itself, offering a glimpse into its incredible biodiversity. Following this, visitors enter the Coral Sea exhibits, highlighting the deeper ocean environments and their unique inhabitants, including larger marine predators.
Throughout the aquarium, educational talks and feeding sessions are integral to the visitor experience. These presentations provide valuable insights into the behavior, biology, and conservation of the animals, making the visit both entertaining and informative. It's a fantastic way to learn about the local marine life and the importance of protecting these fragile environments.
Conservation and Education Focus
Visitors often praise the informative talks and passionate staff who share their knowledge about marine biology and conservation efforts. These interactions transform a simple visit into a learning opportunity, fostering a greater appreciation for the natural world. The aquarium actively works to educate the public on the challenges facing these ecosystems and encourages responsible tourism practices.
By showcasing the beauty and complexity of local marine life, the Cairns Aquarium aims to inspire visitors to become advocates for conservation. It’s a powerful reminder of what’s at stake and the importance of protecting these natural wonders for future generations.
Experiencing the Great Barrier Reef Without Getting Wet
+1The aquarium's exhibits meticulously recreate the reef environment, allowing visitors to marvel at the vibrant corals, diverse fish species, and other marine creatures that call the reef home. The Predators of the Reef tunnel is a prime example, offering an awe-inspiring perspective as sharks and rays swim overhead.
This 'reef without getting wet' approach makes the incredible biodiversity of the Great Barrier Reef accessible to everyone, providing an educational and visually stunning experience that complements any actual reef excursions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit