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4.5(2.9k Ratings)Rated 4.5 out of 5.0 from 2922 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.
Cairns Aquarium

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General Admission Tickets to Cairns Aquarium

4.5
(2K)
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
from AU$52

Top Experiences

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Aquariums
Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Living Coral Biobank Tour
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5.0
Rated 5 out of 5.0 from 1 reviews.
from AU$72
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Aquariums
Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Turtle Hospital Tour
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4.8
Rated 4.8 out of 5.0 from 5 reviews.
from AU$72
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Guided Tours
Cairns Aquarium Night Tour with Optional 2-Course Dinner
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from AU$79
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Zoos
Full Day Tour of Hartley's and Cairns Aquarium
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from AU$97
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Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium
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AU$299

Headout's Top Recommendations

Free cancellation
general admission tickets to cairns aquarium-1
Zoos
General Admission Tickets to Cairns Aquarium
Instant confirmation
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5.0 from 2031 reviews.
from AU$52
Free cancellation
cairns aquarium general admission tickets with living coral biobank tour-1
Aquariums
Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Living Coral Biobank Tour
Instant confirmation
5.0
Rated 5 out of 5.0 from 1 reviews.
from AU$72
Free cancellation
cairns aquarium general admission tickets with turtle hospital tour-1
Aquariums
Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Turtle Hospital Tour
Instant confirmation
4.8
Rated 4.8 out of 5.0 from 5 reviews.
from AU$72
Select a Date
Duration
Flexible
Flexible
Flexible
Inclusions

All-day admission into Cairns Aquarium

Access to all shows, presentations & facilities

Free WiFi

All-day admission to Cairns Aquarium

30-min guided living coral biobank tour

All-day admission to Cairns Aquarium

30-min guided Turtle Hospital Tour

Cancellation policy
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Millions love heading out with us

Maria Ciancarelli
AU

Maria

5/5
Australia
Being educated about our beautiful reef. It was our second visit in 2 years and we always walk away learning something new about the reef's significance and how to protect it. Thoroughly enjoyed the presentations both visits - it's difficult not to catch the passionate bug for our reef from the presentors .
Cairns Aquarium Ticket: Admission Only
Claudia Bailey
US

Claudia

5/5
United States
We bought tickets ahead of time which made our entry very smooth and quick. The exhibits were beautiful and the information given about how water moves through Australia was very interesting! Love the simulated Great Barrier Reef!!
Cairns Aquarium Ticket: Admission Only
Claire walker

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
Lee virtue

Lee

5/5
WOW!!! What an exceptional experience. We had the absolute pleasure and privilege to enjoy a small group evening tour of the Aquarium with the most amazing host Bec. Bec was delightful from the moment we arrived, her energy, smile, sense of humour and world class in depth knowledge was second to none. The evening tour was simply incredible. The facility itself is world class, the tanks, the displays on order of natural locations and eco systems, the coral and marine life, the dedication and commitment to the aquarium by the owners, operators and the staff are simply amazing. Massive shoutout once again to our tour host Bec, she truly made it a world class experience, her knowledge and passion for the marine animals was simply world class. This was definitely a true highlight of our trip. Thank You! Regards Lee & Julie
Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with optional Dining
Vincent Fu
AU

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 General Admission Tickets with Living Coral Biobank 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.  
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.
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 

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 

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
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 

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 

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.

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.
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.

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.

What are Cairns Aquarium opening hours?

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

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