Tour Overview
Cairns Aquarium General Admission offers a fascinating, all-weather experience showcasing the incredible wildlife and ecosystems of Tropical North Queensland. Located in the heart of Cairns City, this immersive attraction brings together reef, river, rainforest, and mangrove habitats under one roof, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
During your visit, you’ll move through 11 carefully designed zones representing nine key ecosystems, home to more than 16,000 aquatic animals. Highlights include Australia’s only 10-metre Deep Reef Tank, a 360-degree Oceanarium, a 20-metre underwater tunnel, and the country’s largest freshwater exhibit. Daily ecosystem talks, animal presentations, and interactive “touch and talk” sessions add depth to the experience and provide insight into the unique species of the region.
This experience is ideal for travellers wanting to learn more about the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest without going out on the water. With flat walkways, accessible facilities, and flexible visit times, Cairns Aquarium General Admission suits families, couples, solo travellers, and anyone seeking an educational and memorable Cairns activity.
Tour Highlights
- All-day general admission from 9:30am to 3:30pm
- Home to over 16,000 aquatic animals
- Explore 9 ecosystems across 11 immersive zones
- Australia’s only 10-metre Deep Reef Tank
- 360-degree Oceanarium and 20-metre underwater tunnel
- Mangrove boardwalk and Australia’s largest freshwater exhibit
- Daily ecosystem talks and animal presentations
- Live diver feeds and marine and reptile touch and talk shows
- See crocodiles, sharks, rays, reptiles, reef fish, and freshwater species up close
Perfect For
- Families with children
- Couples and solo travellers
- Visitors of all ages
- Wildlife and nature lovers
- Travellers seeking an all-weather activity
- Non-swimmers wanting a reef and rainforest experience
- Those interested in education and conservation
Inclusions
Minimum Age
- Suitable for ages 3+ years
- Children under 14 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult
Included:
- All-day general admission to Cairns Aquarium
- Access to all exhibit zones and ecosystems
- Daily talks, animal presentations, and live feeds
- Marine and reptile touch and talk sessions
- Fully accessible facilities, including lifts and accessible toilets
- Free wheelchair hire (subject to availability)
Complimentary entry for one Companion Card holder per eligible guest (card must be presented on arrival)
Itinerary
9:30am – Cairns Aquarium opens
Arrive at Cairns Aquarium, located at 5 Florence Street, Cairns City.
9:30am – 2:30pm – Flexible self-guided visit
Explore the aquarium at your own pace. Attend scheduled talks, animal presentations, and live feeds throughout the day.
2:30pm – Last admission
3:30pm – Aquarium closes
Guests may stay as long as they like during opening hours.
What To Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Light jacket or jumper (indoor climate-controlled environment)
- Any required concession or Companion Card (if applicable)
- Reusable water bottle
Safety Information
Cairns Aquarium is a fully enclosed, land-based attraction with clearly marked pathways and safety barriers throughout all exhibits. Guests are required to follow staff instructions during talks, presentations, and interactive sessions to ensure the safety of both visitors and animals.
Children under 14 years of age must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times. Even ground surfaces, lifts, and escalators are available throughout the attraction, making it suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Free wheelchair hire is available, subject to availability.
As this is an indoor experience, weather conditions do not affect the visit. Entry is subject to operating hours and last admission times. Any additional restrictions or requirements should be confirmed directly with the operator before arrival.