Experience the wonders of Cairns Aquarium, where 16,000 marine and rainforest creatures await. Explore interactive exhibits, immersive ecosystems, and behind-the-scenes tours in this must-visit attraction in the heart of Cairns.
Cairns Aquarium đ â A Window into the Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef
About Cairns Aquarium
A Fun Experience for the Whole Family:Â Cairns Aquarium offers an exciting and educational adventure suitable for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit attraction in Far North Queensland.
Explore Two World Heritage Sites:Â Discover the wonders of both the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, home to over 16,000 creatures across diverse ecosystems.
Journey Through 10 Ecosystems:Â Walk through 71 living habitats, including tropical rainforests, coral reefs, mangroves, and river systems, each teeming with fascinating wildlife.
Daily Presentations & Feeding Shows:Â Enjoy interactive educational talks, shark and ray feedings, and a marine touch tank where you can get hands-on with sea stars and other marine creatures.
Turtle Rehabilitation Centre:Â Visit the onsite turtle hospital to learn about conservation efforts and see rescued sea turtles being rehabilitated before their release back into the ocean.
Exclusive After-Hours Tours:Â Experience the Aquarium by Twilight or Night Tours, where you can explore the aquarium after dark and witness the nocturnal behaviors of marine life.
Interactive Learning for Kids & Adults:Â Discover North Queenslandâs creeks, streams, rainforests, billabongs, and the Coral Sea, while learning about the unique animals that call these habitats home.
A Must-Visit Attraction in Cairns
The Cairns Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for families, nature lovers, and marine enthusiasts alike. Located in the heart of the Cairns CBD, this world-class facility showcases the incredible biodiversity of Tropical North Queensland, bringing visitors face-to-face with the unique marine life of the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Open 365 days a year, the aquarium offers an immersive, educational, and entertaining experience for guests of all ages, making it an ideal destination regardless of the weather.
Explore Diverse Marine and Rainforest Ecosystems
With over 16,000 marine and land animals spread across 10 diverse ecosystems and 71 living habitats, the Cairns Aquarium offers a journey through the incredible landscapes of Northern Australia. Visitors can explore a range of habitats, from freshwater streams and mangroves to the vibrant coral reefs and deep-sea trenches of the Coral Sea. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy engaging educational presentations, shark and ray feedings, and interactive experiences like the marine touch tank, where they can get hands-on with fascinating sea creatures.
Commitment to Conservation and Education
Beyond offering an exciting and fun-filled experience, the Cairns Aquarium is deeply committed to marine conservation and education. The Turtle Rehabilitation Centre provides visitors with insight into the rescue and recovery efforts for injured and sick sea turtles, reinforcing the importance of protecting marine life. Exclusive after-hours evening tours and nighttime experiences offer an even more unique way to explore the aquarium, with the option to pair a visit with an exquisite dining experience at Dundeeâs at the Cairns Aquarium, where guests can enjoy fresh, locally sourced cuisine in an underwater-themed setting.
Unforgettable Experiences for All Visitors
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out, an unforgettable dining experience, or a deeper understanding of marine conservation, the Cairns Aquarium has something for everyone. From exotic reef fish and majestic sharks to rainforest reptiles and elusive deep-sea creatures, every visit promises new discoveries and a greater appreciation for the natural world.
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Cairns Aquarium?
Cairns Aquarium is open seven days a week, 365 days a year, including public holidays. The general opening hours are 10:00 AM â 3:00 PM, with last admissions at 2:00 PM. Extended hours may apply for special events or evening tours.
How long does it take to explore the aquarium?
On average, visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the aquarium. However, if you plan to attend educational talks, feedings, or interactive experiences, you may want to allow for additional time.
Is Cairns Aquarium suitable for young children?
Yes! The aquarium is designed to be family-friendly, with interactive exhibits, a marine touch tank, and engaging activities for kids. Strollers are welcome, and baby-changing facilities are available.
Are there any special experiences or behind-the-scenes tours?
Yes! Cairns Aquarium offers a variety of guided tours, including: – Turtle Rehabilitation Tours to learn about rescued sea turtles. – Behind-the-Scenes Tours for an insider look at animal care. – After-hours and Night Tours with optional dining experiences.
Is Cairns Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entire aquarium is fully accessible for visitors with mobility needs. Wheelchairs are welcome, and accessible restrooms are available.
After a fantastic day at the Cairns Aquarium, you will be excited to see the Great Barrier Reef. Click the link to see the best options.
Cairns Aquarium features Flooded Billabongs
Home to Freshwater Sawfish, the iconic Barramundi, and Whiptail Ray.
The Rainforest
A rainforest inside an Aquarium?! Spot tropical snakes, Emerald tree Monitors, and Frogs.
The Mangroves
Learn about the fascinating biodiversity of the mangrove habitat. Keep an eye out for baby crocodiles while walking along the boardwalk!
Great Barrier Reef
Next, take in the sheer expanse and beauty of Australia’s only 10-metre deep reef tank!
Coral Sea
Then discover the 20 metre Underwater Viewing Tunnel. They feature a 360° view Oceanarium.
Cairns Aquarium Presentation Times
River Monsters â 10.15 am & 12:30 pm
River Monsters Amphitheatre (Ground Floor)
Denizens of the Deep â 10:30 am & 1:00 pm
Deep Reef Amphitheatre (Level 1)
Life of Sharks & Rays â 11:00am & 1:30pm
Oceanarium (Ground Floor)
Marine Touch Tank â 10:00 am â 3:30 pm (Open all day)
Marine Touch Pools (Level 1)
Single-day admission to Cairns Aquarium
Open 365 days from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Last admission at 2:30 pm
Daily Animal and Ecosystem Educational Presentations
Daily Marine Touch Tank Encounter
Daily Ray and Shark Feeding Show (11:00 am)
Complimentary Visitor Map
Coffee, morning, and afternoon tea are all available at Dundees Restaurant
30-minute Turtle Hospital tour: Meet our rescued turtles, and learn all about the threats and dangers Australiaâs six species of sea turtles face in a guided Turtle Hospital Tour. Tours are available at 11:15 am or 12:15 pm daily.
The Cairns Aquarium is located right in Cairns’ CBD on the corner of Abbott Street and Florence Streets.
A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any date change will incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 48 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 48 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning our services.
Children under the age of three years are free of charge (FOC). Children aged 3-14 inclusive are eligible for child rates.
Family rates are valid for 2 adults and 2 children (2A+ 2C).
Senior rates: Presentation of a recognized Seniors, Student, Pension or Carer Card required upon entry.
Group Discounts are available for 10+ guests. Please enquire via email at [email protected]
We, Hot Getaways, are not liable for changes to tours, cancellations from the supplier, pricing, or itineraries; all of which are subject to change without notice.
Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay or personal injury.
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