Cairns Aquarium houses over 15,000 animals across 10 different ecosystems. This diversity allows visitors to experience a wide range of marine and terrestrial life, from colorful tropical fish to unique reptiles. The ecosystems are carefully designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals, providing an authentic and educational experience.
The Cairns Aquarium is a $54 million, three-level facility that spans 7,800 square meters. It houses 71 tanks, including a 1.8 million liter ocean tank, Australia's largest freshwater tank with 400,000 liters of water, a deep reef tank, and the world's first true tidal motion tank. These features provide a comprehensive view of the aquatic world, from the depths of the ocean to the shallows of freshwater habitats.
Cairns Aquarium is one of the few aquariums worldwide that displays endangered or rarely seen species. Visitors have the opportunity to see unique creatures such as the emerald tree monitors, Jardine River turtles, ribboned pipefish, freshwater sawfish, and scalloped hammerhead sharks. This makes the aquarium a special place for those interested in biodiversity and conservation.
In addition to being a popular tourist attraction, Cairns Aquarium also serves as an interactive research and education centre. It is home to the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, which works to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured turtles. Visitors can learn about the important work being done here and the role they can play in conservation efforts.
Nature & Natural History Animals Aquarium Zoo
Monday | 9:30 – 15:30 |
Tuesday | 9:30 – 15:30 |
Wednesday | 9:30 – 15:30 |
Thursday | 9:30 – 15:30 |
Friday | 9:30 – 15:30 |
Saturday | 9:30 – 15:30 |
Sunday | 9:30 – 15:30 |
Last admission 2.30pm
5 Florence St, Cairns City
No exhibitions in Cairns Aquarium have been found.
Cairns Aquarium has 1 rating.
The Cairns Aquarium offers visitors a chance to explore the aquatic life of the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest. Many reviewers appreciate the diverse range of marine and freshwater species on display, including colorful fish, sharks, rays, and reptiles. The multi-level tank designs and underwater tunnels are often cited as impressive features that provide an immersive experience.
Visitors generally find the exhibits informative, with educational signage and knowledgeable staff available to answer questions. The touch tank experiences and feeding demonstrations are popular among families with children. The aquarium's focus on local ecosystems is praised for giving insight into the unique wildlife of North Queensland.
However, some visitors mention that the aquarium is smaller than expected and can feel crowded during peak times. A few reviewers note that the entry price is relatively high, especially for families. Occasional comments suggest that some exhibits could benefit from updates or expansion.
The on-site café receives mixed reviews, with some enjoying the ocean views while others find the food options limited or overpriced. The gift shop is generally well-received, offering a range of souvenirs and educational items.
Overall, the Cairns Aquarium is seen as a good attraction for those interested in marine life, particularly on rainy days when outdoor activities in Cairns are limited. While it may not rival larger aquariums in major cities, it provides a solid introduction to the aquatic ecosystems of the region.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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