4.5(2K ratings)Rated 4.5 out of 5.0 from 2040 ratings.

Cairns Aquarium

Cairns Aquarium is a tropical paradise where you can discover the wonders of Australia's Great Barrier Reef and the unique marine life of North Queensland. Dive into immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and breathtaking underwater encounters in this aquatic haven.

Guest at Cairns Aquarium looking at a Stingray

Guests at the Turtle hospital at Cairns Aquarium

13540 - Cairns - General Admission Tickets to Cairns Aquarium - 09

Cairns Aquarium twilight view with marine life exhibits, Australia.

4.5(2K)

Tickets

Free Cancellation

Instant Confirmation

Flexible duration

1 more

Visit Cairns’ newest attraction for all marine lovers, Cairns Aquarium with free wifi and access to all their shows and presentations.
With over 16,000 animals to admire like the freshwater fish and crocodiles, this is an undisputed learning experience for all.
Tuck into the lip-smacking flavors while gazing at the “Under the Pier” saltwater tank with marine creatures.
Upgrade to the guided sunrise tour or the general admission and lunch combo to enhance your overall experience.
Fun Fact: The phrase “crocodile tears” comes from the fact that when a crocodile swallows too much air, it affects the lacrimal gland, which causes tears to flow.

More details

Visit Cairns’ newest attraction for all marine lovers, Cairns Aquarium with free wifi and access to all their shows and presentations.
With over 16,000 animals to admire like the freshwater fish and crocodiles, this is an undisputed learning experience for all.
Tuck into the lip-smacking flavors while gazing at the “Under the Pier” saltwater tank with marine creatures.
Upgrade to the guided sunrise tour or the general admission and lunch combo to enhance your overall experience.
Fun Fact: The phrase “crocodile tears” comes from the fact that when a crocodile swallows too much air, it affects the lacrimal gland, which causes tears to flow.

from

AU$58

Family exploring Cairns Aquarium, viewing marine life and turtle hospital.

Cairns aquarium corals and marine life exhibit with diverse fish species.

Marine touch tank show in Cairns Aquarium

A group of people are standing around the turtle rehabilitation pool in Cairns aquarium/hospital

Turtle hospitalised inside Cairns hospital

A person feeding a turtle in a pool in Cairns Hospital

Group of people learning about turtles in Cairns Aquarium

Children looking at a turtle in Cairns Aquarium

Woman standing in front of a large aquarium tank at Cairns aquarium/hospital

New

Tickets

Free Cancellation

Instant Confirmation

Flexible duration

1 more

Life under Australia’s waters is just as impressive as the life above. Meet sharks, rays, crocs, and many more animals with your all-day access.
A 30-min guided tour will take you close to rescued sea turtles. Learn about the dangers they face and the aquarium's efforts to protect them.
From Australia’s only 10m Deep Reef Tank and largest freshwater exhibit to a mangrove boardwalk, you are up for many unique experiences.
You don’t have to be merely a spectator. Take part in marine touch tank shows, ecosystem talks, and watch live diver feeds to enrich your visit.
Fun Fact: 100% of the proceeds from the Turtle Hospital Tour go towards the care of the rescued sea turtles.

More details

Life under Australia’s waters is just as impressive as the life above. Meet sharks, rays, crocs, and many more animals with your all-day access.
A 30-min guided tour will take you close to rescued sea turtles. Learn about the dangers they face and the aquarium's efforts to protect them.
From Australia’s only 10m Deep Reef Tank and largest freshwater exhibit to a mangrove boardwalk, you are up for many unique experiences.
You don’t have to be merely a spectator. Take part in marine touch tank shows, ecosystem talks, and watch live diver feeds to enrich your visit.
Fun Fact: 100% of the proceeds from the Turtle Hospital Tour go towards the care of the rescued sea turtles.

from

AU$78

Group of people being guided in Carnis aquarium at night

Blue Spotted Ray in Carnis Aquarium at night

Guided nocturnal tour inside Cairns Aquarium featuring Dundees Restaurant.

New

Guided Tours

Free Cancellation

Instant Confirmation

2 hours

3 more

Enjoy exclusive after-hours entry to Cairns Aquarium and discover the night-time behaviors of nocturnal creatures in the Wet Tropics as the sun sets.
Embark on a 2-hour guided tour across 10 ecosystems, from mountain ranges to the Coral Sea, guided by an expert wildlife educator.
Get up close with the Coral Sea's night predators like sharks and rays, and upgrade your ticket for a 2-course dinner at Dundee’s aquatic Restaurant.
Ready for more? Take the Twilight tour and experience the aquarium at sunset. Then, indulge in a sumptuous 3-course meal at Dundee's.
Fun fact: The Great Barrier Reef is so vast that it's visible from space stretching over 2,300 kilometers and is the world's largest coral reef system.

More details

Enjoy exclusive after-hours entry to Cairns Aquarium and discover the night-time behaviors of nocturnal creatures in the Wet Tropics as the sun sets.
Embark on a 2-hour guided tour across 10 ecosystems, from mountain ranges to the Coral Sea, guided by an expert wildlife educator.
Get up close with the Coral Sea's night predators like sharks and rays, and upgrade your ticket for a 2-course dinner at Dundee’s aquatic Restaurant.
Ready for more? Take the Twilight tour and experience the aquarium at sunset. Then, indulge in a sumptuous 3-course meal at Dundee's.
Fun fact: The Great Barrier Reef is so vast that it's visible from space stretching over 2,300 kilometers and is the world's largest coral reef system.

from

AU$85

Cairns Aquarium marine life encounter featuring diverse fish and coral species.

Tourists enjoying the Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium, Australia, observing vibrant coral and diverse aquatic species

Visitors observing diverse marine life at Cairns Aquarium, Australia.

New

Tickets

Free Cancellation

Instant Confirmation

2 hours

1 more

Follow an expert ecologist guide as you how the aquarium looks after its marine life.
Visit the Turtle Hospital and see the shelled residents under the aquarium's care.
Enjoy a hand-feeding and scatter-feeding experience of Cownose rays and River monsters.

More details

Follow an expert ecologist guide as you how the aquarium looks after its marine life.
Visit the Turtle Hospital and see the shelled residents under the aquarium's care.
Enjoy a hand-feeding and scatter-feeding experience of Cownose rays and River monsters.

from

AU$299

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Travel guides and tips

The complete guide to Cairns Aquarium in Australia

Cairns is known for its beautiful beaches, scenery, and fun activities. The city is also a gateway to two World Heritage Sites – The Great Barrier Reef and The Wet Tropics rainforest. The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and is home to 400 types of corals, 1500 species of fishes, […]

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Millions love heading out with us

Lauren

5/5

We arrived late but we were able to get a large amount of information just from speeding through the exhibits. The exhibits were well organized and information provided was easy to read and understand. We especially loved the large exhibit of sharks and rays, and the tunnel leading out.

Cairns Aquarium Tickets

Elisabeth

5/5

Wonderful aquarium. Great displays, huge variety of fish , excellent commentary/educational write ups and lovely and friendly staff. The lunch as part of the ticket offer was also most agreeable

Cairns Aquarium Tickets

Claire

5/5

The experience was great. No problem at all. We loved our guide his enthusiasm was catching. He was extremely knowledgeable. Thanks to Cameron the whole experience was first clasd

Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with Optional Dining

Belinda

5/5

We had a wonderful time. Our host was full of information, she was more than happy to answer any questions and she made it fun.

Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with Optional Dining

Vincent

5/5

Australia

I loved the diverse range of beautiful, vibrant corals. I also learned many interesting facts, including that sunscreen kills coral and that bleached corals aren't necessarily dead corals. Thanks!

Cairns Aquarium Tickets with Coral Conservation Tour

Cairns Aquarium Guide

Aquariums are a wonderful way to connect with the oceans and its flora and fauna, which is usually hidden from our everyday lives. At the Cairns Aquarium, you get a close look at the most beautiful creatures from The Great Barrier Reef, The Wet Tropics, The Gulf of Savannah, and Cape York regions. If you’re planning a visit, we’ve put together everything you need to know about Cairns Aquarium ticket options, opening hours, and other essential visitor information.

All Your Cairns Aquarium Tickets Explained

The Cairns Aquarium is a must-visit for anyone interested in life under the ocean. If you’re planning a visit, you can choose to book admission tickets, after-hours specials that include meals, exhibit tours, or adventure activities like shark dives.

Keep reading for a detailed look at everything that’s included with each type of ticket.

Admission Tickets

After-Hours Specials Tickets

Guided Tour

Shark Dive

Your admission ticket includes all-day access to the Cairns Aquarium where you get to explore 10 different marine life ecosystems. Participate in ongoing presentations and shows, and enjoy a fun feeding session. You can choose to upgrade your ticket to include lunch at the aquarium as well.

Why go for this ticket?

Take all the time you need to explore the different ecosystems and the different plant and animal species that come with it.
Discover over 16,000 animals from The Great Barrier Reef, Gulf of Savannah, and The Wet Tropics.
Upgrade to include a 2-course meal at the aquarium's Dundee restaurant.

Recommended Experiences

Cairns Aquarium Tickets: General Admission

Walk through the different ecosystems and habitats in the aquarium where you can marvel at a variety of unique, friendly, and deadly species from the rainforests to the far oceans of Australia.

These tickets are special because they allow guests to visit the aquarium exclusively after closing. Without the regular crowd, explore all the different animal habitats at your own pace with a tour guide. The cherry on top? Enjoy delicious meals after you’ve completed your tour.

Why go for this ticket?

Discover over 16,000 species of animals on a twilight tour after the crowds have left.
Enjoy a 2-hour, highly informative guided tour of the different ecosystems and exhibits.
Upgrade your ticket to include 'The Jurassic Platter’ at Dundee’s Restaurant or enjoy a 3-course dining experience after sunset.

Recommended Experiences

Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with Optional Dining

Go on a guided tour of Cairns Aquarium, and enjoy exclusive after-hours entry. Choose from a 3-course meal, drinks & appetizers, and a barrier reef seafood platter

Cairns Aquarium by Twilight Tour: Ancient Oceans Exhibit

Enjoy exclusive after-hours access to Cairns Aquarium with a VIP guided tour and a 3-course meal at Dundee's Restaurant.

Learn everything you need to know about Australia’s fascinating marine life from an expert ecologist who will guide you through your visit. With this ticket, you get first-hand information of some behind-the-scenes action at the Cairns Aquarium.

Why go for this ticket?

Enjoy an exclusive Marine Life Encounter with an expert ecologist who will take you through the 9 Tropical North Queensland habitats.
Learn all about how the aquarium takes care of its marine life and other interesting behind-the-scenes information.
Try your hand at feeding giant freshwater rays and Cownose rays with your friends and family.

Recommended Experiences

Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium with Optional Lunch

Keep your ears open for some interesting information that will be given to you by your expert ecologist. Interacting with giant freshwater and Cownose rays for a lifetime worth of memories.

This ticket allows you to dive down and interact with some of the most majestic yet ferocious animals of the ocean. You will be accompanied by experts to make sure you’re safe during your dive so you can let go and reconnect with nature in the most exciting way possible.

Why go for this ticket?

Get up close and personal with sharks and stingrays by diving into the Cairns Aquarium reef tank.
Experience scuba-diving like never before with the help of expert guides.
Enjoy entry into the aquarium for an entire day.

Recommended Experiences

Dive with the Sharks at Cairns Aquarium

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to swim and interact with the ocean’s deadliest and most fascinating creatures. Enjoy a full-day entry into the aquarium.

Plan Your Visit to Cairns Aquarium

Opening Hours

Getting There

Tips/Facilities

What are Cairns Aquarium opening hours?

Cairns Aquarium opening hours are between 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily. The last admission is at 2:00 PM.

What is the best time to visit Cairns Aquarium?

Most visitors plan their visit during June and October. These months bring with it pleasant weather to be able to enjoy outdoor activities. This season is often referred to as the ‘dry season’. Try to avoid the ‘wet season’ from November to March where there are high chances of flash floods, humidity, afternoon showers, and occasional hurricanes. April/May is also a decent time to travel where you might get cheaper flight tickets since it is off-season.

How long should I spend at Cairns Aquarium?

If you have a general admission ticket, 2 hours should be enough to explore the aquarium. However, if you’d like to take your time with the visit or have additional activities included in your ticket, you can spend anywhere between 3-4 hours here.

Where is Cairns Aquarium located?

Cairns Aquarium is located in Cairns City, Queensland. The complete address is 5 Florence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia.
Google Map Directions

How do I get to Cairns Aquarium?

You can get to Cairns Aquarium by foot, car, or bus. It is easily accessible by foot from nearby accommodation like The Esplanade, Lagoon Pool, and Cruise Terminal.

Can I take the metro/tram to Cairns Aquarium?

There are two platforms at the Cairns Railway Station. You can take the Kuranda Scenic Railway line, which is one of the tourist lines at the station, the other being Savannahlander. Hop on at the Kuranda station and get off at Cairns, after which you can take a bus or taxi to the aquarium. The train journey takes about 38 minutes and goes through National Route 1.

Can I take the bus to Cairns Aquarium?

Bus stops are located just outside the aquarium on Lake and Abbott Street.

Is storage facility available at Cairns Aquarium?

Yes. You can rent out lockers to store your luggage at the entrance of the aquarium.

Is parking available at Cairns Aquarium?

There is no onsite parking available at the aquarium, but you can park on nearby streets where there is metered parking.

Is Cairns Aquarium wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All areas at Cairns Aquarium are accessible by wheelchair with multiple elevators, ramps, accessible washrooms, and wheelchair rentals.

Is photography allowed at Cairns Aquarium?

Photography is allowed inside the aquarium. Although, you should keep your flash off so the animals are not disturbed.

Is dining available at Cairns Aquarium?

Dundee’s is a unique restaurant located within Cairns Aquarium which overlooks swarms of fish and sharks swimming across the pier. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and open on all other days from 10:00 AM to late hours of the night.

What to Expect at Cairns Aquarium

At Cairns Aquarium you will find an ocean world dedicated to the tropics of North Queensland. Get a close look at the habitats and species of the natural wonders of Australia right in the city of Cairns.

River Systems

Take a trip down the far rivers of Northern Queensland, observing the unusual shapes, sizes, colors, and other features of many of its inhabitants. The wide range of species that thrive in these regions includes catfish, gudgeon, perch, and even the one-of-a-kind freshwater stonefish.

Creeks & Streams

Freshwater plants and animals form their unique ecosystems that live in unison with other marine life. The luscious green plants and colorful freshwater fish are bound to catch your eye, providing some unique, breathtaking sights. Here you can get a glimpse of giant prawns and brightly colored crayfish.

Waterways & Billabongs

Australia is well known for its rarest and most unique species, particularly in Cape York and Gulf Savannah regions. You can spot some bizarre yet magnificent creatures like the Freshwater Sawfish with its long sharp teeth on its long bony snout! Watch out for barramundi, mangrove jacks, sooty grunters, and the largest species of freshwater whip rays that you’ve ever seen!

Tropical Rainforest

Many animal species venture out into the wild only at night, which is why they are often hard to spot. The special displays at Cairns Aquarium will let you get a first-hand look at some of these spectacular nocturnal creatures, including unique species of snakes, lizards, and frogs.

Forest Floor

If you’re a nature buff, you’ll know that forest floors form their unique habitat with a wide array of unique species that thrive in these environments. In the forests of Tropical North Queensland, you can find the richest and most diverse collection of insects, spiders, and plant systems. Catch a glimpse at some of the largest forest giants that you’ve ever seen!

Life in the Mangrove

Plant systems play a vital role when it comes to marine life. Mangroves in particular filter out sediment from mountain water, providing a rich habitat for unique species to survive such as the fighting crab, crocodiles, reef stars, and other reef fish. The trees themselves have evolved over time to adapt to salt and freshwater, the concentrations of which keep changing.

Great Barrier Reef & Dangers of the Reef

The world-famous Great Barrier Reef is the largest collection of coral systems and islands spread across 344,400 square kilometers. You can even see it from space! Get an insight into the unusual shapes, colors, and behaviors of many species that live here, including a few dangerous ones that are potentially fatal to human life!

The Coral Sea

Australia is famous for its numerous colorful reefs spread across its oceans. Now you can take a look at these coral reefs right at the Cairns Aquarium at the main Oceanarium. In this area, you will find the highest number of fish in comparison to other reef zones including Reef Sharks, Stingrays, Leopard Sharks, and Coral Trout.

Ribbon Reefs

The Reef face at Cairns Aquarium is a 10-meter high, 200,000 liter tank containing rich complex growths of coral and algae. These usually serve as food for other marine animals, attracting them to the surface. The Ribbon Reef is visible from both levels of the aquarium, where you can watch how these creatures move around between shallow and deep surfaces of the ocean.

Under the pier

Some animals have grown to adapt to certain man-made structures like jetties and piers. They can make these structures their homes over a certain period. At the Aqualuna Restaurant, you get a close look at Baby Blacktip reef sharks, wrasse, stingrays, and angelfish swimming around a 70,000 liter shark exhibit.

Cairns Aquarium Tickets FAQ

Is Cairns Aquarium open in 2021?

Yes. Cairns Aquarium is open in 2021 all year round for visitors with various safety measures in place.

Are Cairns Aquarium tickets available online now?

Yes, Cairns Aquarium tickets are now available online for purchase.

What are the different types of Cairns Aquarium tickets?

Guests can choose to book admission tickets, after-hours specials that include meals, guided tours, or adventure activities like shark dives.

Are meals included in Cairns Aquarium tickets?

It depends on which ticket you book. After-hours tickets and some guided tours include meals, while standard admission tickets do not.

Are guided tours of Cairns Aquarium available?

Yes, guided tours are available at Cairns Aquarium. Learn about ecosystems, marine life, and much more from experts. Note that not all tickets include guided tours and you would have to specifically book those that do include the services of a professional guide.