
Solitary Islands Aquarium
Discover local marine wonders at Solitary Islands Aquarium, featuring interactive tanks and passionate staff.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing

Solitary Islands Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover local marine wonders at Solitary Islands Aquarium, featuring interactive tanks and passionate staff.
"Staff knowledge and passion for conservation make this a well-worth-it visit for all ages."

🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment and manage crowds. :admission_tickets:
👋 Engage with Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate; ask them questions! :nerd_face:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Octopus Encounters
Various Tanks
Mesmerizing octopuses with distinct personalities are a major draw. Watching them play is a highlight for many visitors.

Interactive Touch Tank
Designated Touch Pool
Get up close and personal with sea cucumbers and kelp in this engaging, hands-on exhibit.

Fish Feeding Demonstrations
Main Aquarium Tanks
Witness the excitement of feeding time for a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for a Smoother Visit
Embrace the Interactive Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment and manage crowds. :admission_tickets:
👋 Engage with Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate; ask them questions! :nerd_face:
🐙 Observe the Octopuses
Spend time watching the octopuses; they have fascinating personalities. :octopus:
✋ Touch Tank Fun
Don't miss the chance to gently touch sea cucumbers and kelp. :hand_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry in advance to avoid disappointment and manage crowds. :admission_tickets:
👋 Engage with Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate; ask them questions! :nerd_face:
🐙 Observe the Octopuses
Spend time watching the octopuses; they have fascinating personalities. :octopus:
✋ Touch Tank Fun
Don't miss the chance to gently touch sea cucumbers and kelp. :hand_wave:
📸 Capture the Moments
Great photo opportunities, especially with the marine life. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Solitary Islands Aquarium for its knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff, who create a highly engaging and hands-on experience. The variety of marine life, especially the captivating octopuses and interactive touch tank, are major highlights. While some noted that some displays lacked species names, the overall experience is considered well worth the admission price, offering a fun and educational afternoon for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
"Great experience at the aquarium. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff that allowed for a very engaging and hands on experience. The museum was easy to access and had a wide range of marine life for us to see."
Anthony Watt
"Fantastic experience. My son (9,asd2) is obsessed with octopus and goes every time we come to Coffs and we learn something new each time. This visit we happened to be in time for fish feeding which was another level of fun and learning. The ppl are great too!"
J
"Online booking is required and costs $18 for adults, but it is well worth it, to spend a few hours delving deep below the ocean to see spectacular marine creatures and understanding how mankind needs to protect ocean life in order to sustain ourselves"
Andrew Wong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Solitary Islands Aquarium is conveniently located just 10 minutes north of Coffs Harbour. Many visitors drive and find parking available directly out front. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi/rideshare is advisable.
Yes, parking is generally available directly out the front of the aquarium, making it easily accessible for visitors arriving by car.
While specific accessibility details aren't widely published, aquariums are typically designed to be accessible. It's always a good idea to contact them directly if you have specific mobility needs.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Online booking is often required.
Absolutely! It's a perfect addition to a day trip exploring the Coffs Coast. Its proximity to Coffs Harbour makes it an easy stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are priced around $18, and it's considered well worth the cost for the experience. Booking online is required.
Yes, online booking is required for entry. This helps manage visitor numbers and ensures a smoother experience.
Information on specific discounts isn't widely available, but it's always worth checking their official website or contacting them directly for any potential family or group rates.
Refund policies can vary. It's best to review the terms and conditions during the online booking process or contact the aquarium directly for clarification.
Online booking is required, so it's unlikely you can purchase tickets directly at the door. Plan ahead and book online to guarantee entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of native species from the Coffs Coast, including fascinating octopuses, sea cucumbers, and kelp. The aquarium focuses on local marine biodiversity.
Yes, it's highly recommended for kids! They'll love the interactive displays, touch tank, and learning about marine life.
Most visitors find an hour to be sufficient for a thorough visit, especially if it's not crowded. However, you could easily spend longer if you're particularly interested in the exhibits or attending a feeding.
Yes, the aquarium offers guided tours and talks, which are highly praised for their educational value and the enthusiasm of the staff.
Its focus on local marine life, highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff, and interactive exhibits, particularly the touch tank and octopus displays, make it a standout experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information on onsite dining is limited. It's advisable to check their official website or plan to dine at nearby cafes or restaurants in Coffs Harbour.
Typically, most attractions have policies regarding outside food and drinks. It's best to confirm with the aquarium directly before your visit.
Yes, Coffs Harbour offers a range of family-friendly dining options just a short drive from the aquarium.
Coffs Harbour has a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from casual cafes and seafood restaurants to international cuisine.
There might be picnic areas in the surrounding vicinity, but it's best to check local park regulations or ask staff upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, which can disturb the marine life.
The octopus tanks, the touch tank, and the various colorful fish displays offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, video recording is usually permitted, allowing you to capture the dynamic movements of the marine creatures.
While tripods might be restricted in crowded areas, standard camera and phone photography is generally fine. Check with staff if you have professional equipment.
Aquarium lighting can be dim to simulate underwater environments, so be prepared for lower light conditions, which might require adjusting your camera settings or using a phone with good low-light performance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐠 Marine Life Enthusiasts
📚 Educational Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Solitary Islands Marine Park: A Conservation Gem
By showcasing the native species found in the Coffs Coast region, the aquarium fosters a deeper appreciation for the local biodiversity. Visitors can learn about the unique adaptations of creatures like the octopus, which has three hearts and a complex nervous system, or the resilient sea cucumbers found in the touch tank. The interactive displays and knowledgeable staff play a key role in conveying the significance of marine conservation, making the visit both enjoyable and impactful.
Interactive Learning and Family Fun
Beyond the touch tank, the aquarium features guided tours and talks led by enthusiastic staff who are passionate about marine conservation. These sessions offer fascinating insights into the lives of the marine inhabitants, from the playful antics of octopuses to the feeding habits of various fish species. The aquarium's design ensures that even the youngest visitors can easily observe the tanks, making it a truly family-friendly destination.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit