Cairns Aquarium

Cairns Aquarium 🐠

Open daily from 9:30am – 3:30pm (last entry at 3pm)
Perfect for families, couples, and curious travellers
Home to 16,000 reef and rainforest creatures
Showcasing two World Heritage-listed areas in one location

Step into a world where reef meets rainforest. At the Cairns Aquarium, every turn reveals something new – glowing corals, colourful reef fish, slithering snakes, and curious lizards.

This is Australia’s first and only aquarium dedicated entirely to the species of Tropical North Queensland. From the Great Barrier Reef to the Wet Tropics Rainforest, you’ll explore five incredible habitats that bring these two World Heritage-listed wonders to life.

Kids will love spotting Nemo and starfish, while adults can dive into fascinating facts about marine life and conservation. And with plenty of interactive displays, it’s easy to learn while having fun.

Whether you’re escaping the heat, looking for a family-friendly adventure, or simply want to discover what lives beneath the surface, the Cairns Aquarium is a must-visit attraction in Far North Queensland.

Frequently asked questions

How long should I allow for a visit?

Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the aquarium, but you can take it at your own pace.

Who owns the Cairns Aquarium?

Cairns Aquarium is privately owned by partners Daniel Leipnik and Andrew Preston.

Is Cairns Aquarium open everyday?

Yes, 365 days a year from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm.

Where is the Cairns Aquarium?

This attraction is located on the corner of Florence and Abbott Streets in Cairns City. The entrance is on Florence Street.

Is the Aquarium wheelchair and pram friendly?

Yes, the Aquarium is fully accessible, with lifts and wide pathways for prams and wheelchairs.

⭐ 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.

Highlights

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.

Itinerary

Open daily from 9:30am – 3:30pm (last entry at 3pm)

Cairns Aquarium Presentation Times

River Monsters – 10.15 am & 12:30 pm
River Monsters Amphitheatre (Ground Floor)
Denizens of the Deep – 10:30 am & 1:00 pm
Deep Reef Amphitheatre (Level 1)
Life of Sharks & Rays – 11:00am & 1:30pm
Oceanarium (Ground Floor)
Curious & Coloured – 11:30 am
Coral Sea Amphitheatre (Ground Floor)
Marine Touch Tank – 10:00 am – 3:30 pm (Open all day)
Marine Touch Pools (Level 1)

Included

General Admission inclusions:

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

Optional Extras

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 Australia’s six species of sea turtles face in a guided Turtle Hospital Tour. Tours are available at 11:15 am or 12:15 pm daily.

How to get there

The Cairns Aquarium is located right in Cairns’ CBD on the corner of Abbott Street and Florence Streets.

Departs

Daily 9:30 am 3:30 pm

$61

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