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Book Cairns Aquarium Tickets

4.5(2.9K Ratings)

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Guest inside the Cairns Aquarium Tunnel
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium looking at a Stingray
Guests at the Turtle hospital at Cairns Aquarium
Guests at the Turtle hospital at Cairns Aquarium
Species of fish at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
13540 - Cairns - General Admission Tickets to Cairns Aquarium - 09
The corral biobank at Cairns Aquarium
Guest inside the Cairns Aquarium Tunnel
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium looking at a Stingray
Guests at the Turtle hospital at Cairns Aquarium
Guests at the Turtle hospital at Cairns Aquarium
Species of fish at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
13540 - Cairns - General Admission Tickets to Cairns Aquarium - 09
The corral biobank at Cairns Aquarium
Guest inside the Cairns Aquarium Tunnel
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium looking at a Stingray
Guests at the Turtle hospital at Cairns Aquarium
Guests at the Turtle hospital at Cairns Aquarium
Species of fish at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
Guest at Cairns Aquarium
13540 - Cairns - General Admission Tickets to Cairns Aquarium - 09
The corral biobank at Cairns Aquarium
Tickets
4.5(2K)

Cairns Aquarium Tickets

from
AU$58
Free cancellation

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

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Connect with the species of The Great Barrier Reef, The Wet Tropics, The Gulf of Savannah, and Cape York with all-day admission at Cairns Aquarium.
  • Boasting over 16,000 animals, this is your opportunity to get up close with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures such as crocodiles.
  • This aquarium is equipped with a 10-meter deep reef tank, a 360-degree Oceanarium, a 20-meter underwater tunnel, and a mangrove boardwalk.
  • Enjoy ecosystem talks and feeding sessions. Delve into some delicious food while viewing the restaurant’s 14-meter “Under the Pier” saltwater tank.
  • You can choose between the guided sunrise tour or all-day entry to the aquarium along with a delicious lunch at Dundee’s Restaurant.
  • Connect with the species of The Great Barrier Reef, The Wet Tropics, The Gulf of Savannah, and Cape York with all-day admission at Cairns Aquarium.
  • Boasting over 16,000 animals, this is your opportunity to get up close with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures such as crocodiles.
  • This aquarium is equipped with a 10-meter deep reef tank, a 360-degree Oceanarium, a 20-meter underwater tunnel, and a mangrove boardwalk.
  • Enjoy ecosystem talks and feeding sessions. Delve into some delicious food while viewing the restaurant’s 14-meter “Under the Pier” saltwater tank.
  • You can choose between the guided sunrise tour or all-day entry to the aquarium along with a delicious lunch at Dundee’s Restaurant.

Inclusions

  • Entry to Cairns Aquarium
  • Access to all shows, presentations & facilities
  • Free WiFi
  • Access to guided sunrise tour (as per option selected)
  • Tip: You can visit the Cairns Botanic Garden after you finish at Cairns Aquarium, home to rare plants like the Torch Ginger.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Ramps and elevators are available at the venue for easy access.
  • Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Happy family in Cairns aquarium
Corals in Cairns aquarium
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
Guided tour in Cairns Aquarium
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
Happy family in Cairns aquarium
Corals in Cairns aquarium
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
Guided tour in Cairns Aquarium
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
Happy family in Cairns aquarium
Corals in Cairns aquarium
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
Guided tour in Cairns Aquarium
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
Tickets
NEW

Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Turtle Hospital Tour

from
AU$78
Free cancellation

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

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Explore Cairn Aquarium’s diverse marine exhibits with all-day access, and meet rescued sea turtles on the guided Turtle Hospital Tour.
  • The tour introduces you to the dangers faced by sea turtles, and the efforts being taken. Rest assured that all tour proceeds go towards their care.
  • Cairns Aquarium is home to Australia's only 10-meter Deep Reef Tank and largest freshwater exhibit. It’s a unique experience you don’t want to miss.
  • A 360-degree Oceanarium and 20-meter underwater tunnel will make you feel right at home among the colorful reef fish, sharks, and rays.
  • Your ticket gives you access to ecosystem talks, live diver feeds, and marine touch tank. Sea-ze the chance to expand your marine trivia!
  • Explore Cairn Aquarium’s diverse marine exhibits with all-day access, and meet rescued sea turtles on the guided Turtle Hospital Tour.
  • The tour introduces you to the dangers faced by sea turtles, and the efforts being taken. Rest assured that all tour proceeds go towards their care.
  • Cairns Aquarium is home to Australia's only 10-meter Deep Reef Tank and largest freshwater exhibit. It’s a unique experience you don’t want to miss.
  • A 360-degree Oceanarium and 20-meter underwater tunnel will make you feel right at home among the colorful reef fish, sharks, and rays.
  • Your ticket gives you access to ecosystem talks, live diver feeds, and marine touch tank. Sea-ze the chance to expand your marine trivia!

Inclusions

  • All-day admission to Cairns Aquarium
  • 30-min guided Turtle Hospital Tour

Exclusions

  • Food and drinks
  • Tip: Dine with colorful fish at the aquarium’s Dundee’s Café & Restaurant (at your own expense). It features Australia’s largest saltwater tank in a restaurant.
  • Flash photography is not allowed on the Turtle Hospital Tour. Photography is permitted unless otherwise stated.
  • Do not touch the turtles and be mindful of any loud noises as this may hinder their recovery.
  • This experience is wheelchair accessible. Free wheelchair hire is available.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Family in Carnis aquarium at night
Fish in Carnis Aquarium at night
Group of people being guided in Carnis aquarium at night
Blue Spotted Ray in Carnis Aquarium at night
Dundees Restaurant Inside Carnis Aquarium at night
Seafood Spaghetti at Cairns Aquarium
Family in Carnis aquarium at night
Fish in Carnis Aquarium at night
Group of people being guided in Carnis aquarium at night
Blue Spotted Ray in Carnis Aquarium at night
Dundees Restaurant Inside Carnis Aquarium at night
Seafood Spaghetti at Cairns Aquarium
Family in Carnis aquarium at night
Fish in Carnis Aquarium at night
Group of people being guided in Carnis aquarium at night
Blue Spotted Ray in Carnis Aquarium at night
Dundees Restaurant Inside Carnis Aquarium at night
Seafood Spaghetti at Cairns Aquarium
Guided Tours
NEW

Cairns Aquarium Night or Twilight Tour with Optional Dinner

from
AU$85
Free cancellation

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

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr. - 3 hr. 15 min.
Meals included
  • Want to witness the nightlife at the aquarium? Join a 2-hour night tour with after-hours access to avoid the crowds, led by expert wildlife educators.
  • Discover how animals in the Wet Tropics shift their behaviors at night and explore 10 ecosystems – from mountains to the Coral Sea and Great Barrier Reef.
  • Encounter the Coral Sea’s nighttime hunters, such as sharks, rays, groupers, and moray eels as they hunt for their prey.
  • Marvel at the world's largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef, spanning over 2,300 kilometers and so vast it's visible from space.
  • Opt for the Twilight tour and watch how the aquarium transforms as the sun sets. Cap off your evening with a 2 or 3-course dinner at Dundee's.
  • Want to witness the nightlife at the aquarium? Join a 2-hour night tour with after-hours access to avoid the crowds, led by expert wildlife educators.
  • Discover how animals in the Wet Tropics shift their behaviors at night and explore 10 ecosystems – from mountains to the Coral Sea and Great Barrier Reef.
  • Encounter the Coral Sea’s nighttime hunters, such as sharks, rays, groupers, and moray eels as they hunt for their prey.
  • Marvel at the world's largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef, spanning over 2,300 kilometers and so vast it's visible from space.
  • Opt for the Twilight tour and watch how the aquarium transforms as the sun sets. Cap off your evening with a 2 or 3-course dinner at Dundee's.

Inclusions

  • 2-hour night or twilight tour (depending on the ticket selected)
  • After-hours entry to Cairns Aquarium
  • English-speaking guide
  • 2-course dinner (optional)
  • 3-course dinner (optional)
  • Tip: Bring a camera with low-light capabilities to capture the glowing corals and nocturnal life without flash, which can disturb the animals.
  • The tour is accessible for wheelchair users.
  • Service animals are permitted with evidence of legal documentation and an identification jacket for your service animal.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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.
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.
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.
Tickets
NEW

Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium

from
AU$299
Free cancellation

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

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.
  • Get in on the behind-the-scenes action of Cairns Aquarium with a fully guided, personalized tour.
  • Learn about the plant and equipment that keeps the aquarium running from an expert ecologist guide.
  • Meet the turtles in the aquarium's care at the Turtle Hospital.
  • Handfeed the gentle Cownose rays and enjoy a scatter feeding experience at the River Monsters exhibit.
  • Get in on the behind-the-scenes action of Cairns Aquarium with a fully guided, personalized tour.
  • Learn about the plant and equipment that keeps the aquarium running from an expert ecologist guide.
  • Meet the turtles in the aquarium's care at the Turtle Hospital.
  • Handfeed the gentle Cownose rays and enjoy a scatter feeding experience at the River Monsters exhibit.

Inclusions

  • Entry into Cairns Aquarium
  • Fully guided, personalized 2-hour tour
  • Cownose Ray encounter including hand-feeding experience
  • Behind the Scenes, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, and River Monsters Scatter Feeding experience
  • Due to safety reasons, children under 12 may not hand feed the Cownose Rays. Instead, a souvenir gift voucher for $8.00 will be provided.
  • Guests must be mobile as there are stairs and uneven surfaces on this tour.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
CairnsCairns Aquarium

Cairns Aquarium

Home to an astonishing 16,000 specimens and 10 ecosystems, Cairns Aquarium in Australia is the first public aquarium built in 18 years in the country! Cairns Aquarium has 71 tanks including Australia's largest freshwater tank with 400,000 liters of water. With a wide range of endangered and endemic species on display, it is an incredible place to visit, learn from and explore.

Cairns Aquarium Reopens Post-COVID-19

Cairns Aquarium reopened to the public on 6 June 2020 after almost three months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is important to know that several safety measures have been put in place to enable public safety.

Safety Rules for Visiting Cairns Aquarium

The following public safety measures have been implemented:

  • Hand sanitizer available for visitors and staff to avail 
  • Social distancing must be followed throughout the experience
  • All gear/equipment will be sanitized after each use
  • Contactless payment is preferred over cash
  • All areas will be frequently cleaned and sanitized

Why Visit Cairns Aquarium

Cairns Aquarium is home to more than 16,000 species and 10 ecosystems. The three-level facility situated in Queensland holds 71 tanks including Australia’s largest freshwater tank with 400,000 litres of water, deep sea tank as well as a true tidal motion tank. It is the only aquarium that houses endangered or rarely seen endemic species including the emerald tree monitors, Jardine River painted turtles, ribboned pipefish and scalloped hammerhead sharks. 

This 54-million dollar building is also an interactive research and educational center. Step in to gain a one-of-a-kind experience where you’ll get up close and personal to witness some of the wildest creatures of the Great Barrier Reef and the North Queensland Wet Tropics. Read on to find out more about the Cairns Aquarium tickets, timings, highlights and more.

Cairns Aquarium Tickets & Tours

Please keep in mind that few activities and tours have been temporarily suspended as a part of the covid safety guidelines. Primarily there are 3 types of Cairns Aquarium tickets: Admission Ticket, Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with a 3-Course Dinner Pass and Dive with the Sharks Ticket. Learn more about each of them below.

Cairns Aquarium tickets

Cairns Aquarium Admission Ticket

Get to learn all about the different species of The Great Barrier Reef, The Wet Tropics, The Gulf of Savannah and lots more with the Cairns Aquarium admission ticket. You not only gain an all-day access to get up close and personal with over 16,000 marine animals but you also get a chance to discover the ecosystem through various interactive animal presentations and feeding sessions. This experience gives you the option to upgrade your tickets to add a lavish 2-course lunch where you’ll get to indulge in some mouth watering dishes while viewing the restaurant's 14-meter marine tank.

Cairns Aquarium tickets

Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with a 3-Course Dinner

Step into the Cairns Aquarium to discover the exotic plants and animals that can be found only in Australia’s Wet Tropics. Get an exclusive after-hour access where you’ll gain a 2-hour guided twilight tour through 10 tropical ecosystems covering everything from the rivers to the reef. Don’t miss out on witnessing some of the deadly predators including sharks, rays, groupers and plenty more at a close distance. Complete your tour by enjoying a 3-course dinner at Dundee’s restaurant where you can feast on some of the best seafood delicacies in the city. 

Cairns Aquarium tickets

Dive with the Sharks at Cairns Aquarium

Make the most out of your experience at the Cairns Aquarium by diving with the sharks. Following a quick medical check, throw on the scuba equipment to begin your adventurous journey with the fierce marine animals. Your safety will always be the number one priority and this will be ensured by the experienced diving team at all times. Discover the aquatic world at your own pace with this all-day pass where you’d come face-to-face with the sharks as you glide into the reef tank giving a thrilling yet safe experience.

What is the Best Way to Purchase Cairns Aquarium Tickets?

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets online before arriving at the venue. Due to the reduced capacity limitation, pre-booked tickets guarantee your entry for the specific date. Moreover, you can avoid standing in long queues to gain direct access providing a hassle-free experience.

Explore Cairns Aquarium

There is a lot to explore as you step into the Cairns Aquarium. Find out everything you need to know before making a visit.

Explore Cairns Aquarium

River Systems

Get a chance to witness the endemic species situated in the rivers of Far North Queensland at the Cairns Aquarium. Here, you’ll get to cover everything from perch and gudgeon to catfish and freshwater stonefish.

Explore Cairns Aquarium

Creeks and Streams

The creeks and streams displayed at the Cairns Aquarium shows a series of freshwater species. This includes brilliantly coloured crayfish and giant prawns which would immediately catch your eye and attention.  

Explore Cairns Aquarium

Waterways and Billabongs

Here you’ll get to see the Freshwater Sawfish - one of the world’s rarest and most bizarre marine animals situated in the Cape York and Gulf Savannah region. It can grow upto 7 metres and has a 2 metre rostrum covered between its dangerous teeth. Scooty grunters, mangrove jacks and barramundi are a few other species that you’d witness during this exhibit.

Explore Cairns Aquarium

Tropical Rainforest

Step into the world of lush and natural beauty to discover some of the most incredible snakes, lizards and frogs. Most of them are nocturnal and can be seen active only during the night, however, when you do occasionally catch them, you’ll realise it was worth the wait!

Explore Cairns Aquarium

Forest Floor

Australia houses some of the biggest diversity of spiders and insects that can be found in Tropical North Queensland. With some that can grow bigger than your hands and others longer than your arm, these species can be spotted almost everywhere. Don’t miss out on getting a glimpse at some of the biggest rainforest giants situated at the Cairns Aquarium.

Best Time to Visit Cairns Aquarium

Cairns Aquarium welcomes close to 1200 visitors every day. Considering that the aquarium falls among the top destinations in Australia, it is highly recommended to visit earlier during the day to utilize your time in the best way possible. If you’re unable to make it in the morning, you can also choose to visit the aquarium a few hours before the closing period, where you’ll experience a smaller crowd. Weekday visits are advised over weekends to avoid the massive rush at the venue.

Plan Your Visit to Cairns Aquarium

Find out everything you need to know about visiting Cairns Aquarium

Opening Hours
Getting to Cairns Aquarium
Facilities
Cairns Aquarium
What are Cairns Aquarium hours?

Cairns Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Last admission is at 2:00 PM.

When is Cairns Aquarium closed?

Cairns Aquarium is open through the year. However, do note that the last entry will be at 2:00 PM after which, visitors will not be entertained.

What is the best time to visit Cairns Aquarium?

It is ideal to visit earlier during the day or a few hours before the closing period to avoid overcrowding at the venue.

Cairns Aquarium
Where is Cairns Aquarium located?

Cairns Aquarium is situated at 5 Florence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Google Map Directions

How do I get to Cairns Aquarium?

Cairns Aquarium is one block away from The Esplanade, two blocks from the Lagoon Pool and approximately a 5-minute walk from the Cruise Terminal. You can also easily access the aquarium by car however, there is no onsite parking facility. Metered parking is available in the surrounding street.

Can I take the bus to Cairns Aquarium?

Yes, Cairns Aquarium has a bus service running on Lake and Abbott Street, right outside the Aquarium. The Cairns Aquarium is conveniently located in the heart of Cairns, next to Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort and opposite DoubleTree by Hilton

What facilities are available at Cairns Aquarium?

Cairns Aquarium offers a wide range of facilities including free WIFI access, gift stores, rental lockers, toilets with change tables and water fountains.

Is Cairns Aquarium wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Cairns Aquarium is fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible washrooms, rentals and welcome accredited Guide/Service Dogs.

Are there dining options at the Cairns Aquarium?

Yes, Dundee's restaurant is situated at the Cairns Aquarium.

Cairns Aquarium FAQs

What are the safety measures and guidelines in place at the Cairns Aquarium?

Several health measures have been implemented to ensure public safety. This includes the use of hand sanitisation with the venue, mandatory need to follow social distancing protocol and the enhancement of regiours cleaning within the aquarium to avoid the spread of any infection.

Are Cairns Aquarium tickets available online now?

Yes. In fact it is advised to book your tickets in advance before visiting the Cairns Aquarium for a hassle free experience. 

What is the cancellation policy for Cairns Aquarium?

These tickets canceled, amended or rescheduled

What are the Cairns Aquarium operating hours?

Cairns Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Last admission is at 2:00 PM

Does Cairns Aquarium tickets offer a dining experience?

Yes, the Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with a 3-Course Dinner pass and the Cairns Aquarium  admission tickets offers a dinner experience.

What are the operating hours for the Dundee's restaurant situated at Cairns Aquarium?

The Dundee's restaurant is open from Wednesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM until late night.
Sunday, 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM

Do you provide any discounts for Cairns Aquarium tickets?

Yes, infants aged 2 years and below can enter Cairns Aquarium for free. Children aged 3-14 years can enjoy reduced ticket pricing.