Welcome to Cairns Aquarium, Australia’s newest and most spectacular Aquarium. This world-class attraction is located in the heart of the Cairns CBD and close to all major hotels. It is open seven days a week, 365 days a year (including all public holidays), and is fully undercover and air-conditioned.
You will get to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest, which are home to over 16,000 creatures, and you will journey through 10 different ecosystems within 71 living habitats. You will spend the day exploring the world above and below the water, where there are educational talks throughout the day, shark and ray feeding, and you will have fun getting your hands wet at the marine touch tank. The Aquarium also has an onsite Turtle Rehabilitation centre, which offers several tours a day and exclusive after-hour evening and night tours that can be packaged with dinner at the onsite aquatic restaurant.
The Cairns Aquarium is also committed to conservation and education. The aquarium’s exhibits and programmes are designed to raise awareness about protecting our oceans and the creatures that call them home.
So whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Cairns Aquarium has something for everyone. Come and explore the wonders of the underwater world, and leave with a newfound appreciation for the natural world around us.
Cairns Aquarium Map
During your visit, there will be fun and informative presentations. Learn about North Queensland Habitats:
Creeks and streams include brightly coloured crayfish and giant prawns.
Tropical Rainforest: This section is where you will find lizards, snakes, and frogs.
Life in the mangroves provides a safe environment for young reef fish, crabs, and crocodiles.
The Great Barrier Reef is a kaleidoscope of brightly coloured reef fish and corals.
River Systems This display includes gudgeon, catfish, and freshwater stonefish.
The Coral Sea is home to sharks, coral trout, and trevally.
Waterways and billabongs in this exhibit show giant barramundi and mangrove jacks.
The forest floor is where you will find insects and spiders.
Dundee’s at Cairns Aquarium – Menus and Dining Information
At Dundee’s at Cairns Aquarium, Executive Chef James Wort and his talented team craft delightful dishes that cater to all tastes and dietary needs. They focus on using local produce and delivering fresh, flavourful meals for sharing with family and friends.
Cafe Hours
The cafe is open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily and offers a range of light bites and beverages to enjoy while you explore the aquarium.
Lunch Service
Join us for lunch between 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM every day. Our lunch menu features a variety of delicious options made from the freshest local ingredients.
Dinner Service
Dinner is available from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM (last sitting), Tuesday through Saturday. Enjoy a relaxed evening with our exquisite dinner offerings, crafted to provide a memorable dining experience.
Sunday Sesh
Sundays are special at Dundee’s, with their Seafood Special available from 11:30 AM to 7:30 PM and DJ Glenn’s music selection from 2:00 PM. It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon.
Advance Bookings
We recommend making bookings to ensure you get a table, especially during busy periods. Please note there is a 15% surcharge on public holidays.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available to cater to all dietary preferences. For Christmas bookings or further details, please click here to make a reservation.
Aquarium Events
Host your next event at the Cairns Aquarium. This exciting venue can also cater for birthdays, weddings, and cocktail parties.
Gift Store
Stop by the gift store for local quality gifts and handcrafted goods or souvenirs.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What are the opening hours of Cairns Aquarium?
9:30 am – 3:30 pm (last admission 2:30 pm)
How long does it take to explore Cairns Aquarium?
Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the exhibits. However, you can take as long as you like to enjoy the interactive displays, animal presentations, and behind-the-scenes tours.
Is Cairns Aquarium suitable for young children?
Absolutely! Cairns Aquarium is perfect for children of all ages. Plenty of interactive exhibits and animal feedings will captivate young minds, and the educational displays make learning fun for the whole family.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, Cairns Aquarium offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. These tours provide deeper insights into the exhibits and the fascinating ecosystems of Far North Queensland.
Is Cairns Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the facility. There are also accessible restrooms and parking spots.
Marine Touch Tank – 10:00 am – 3:30 pm (Open all day)
Marine Touch Pools (Level 1)
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
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.
The Cairns Aquarium is located right in Cairns’ CBD on the corner of Abbott Street and Florence Streets.
A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any date change will incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 48 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 48 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning our services.
Children under the age of three years are free of charge (FOC). Children aged 3-14 inclusive are eligible for child rates.
Family rates are valid for 2 adults and 2 children (2A+ 2C).
Senior rates: Presentation of a recognized Seniors, Student, Pension or Carer Card required upon entry.
Group Discounts are available for 10+ guests. Please enquire via email at [email protected]
We, Hot Getaways, are not liable for changes to tours, cancellations from the supplier, pricing, or itineraries; all of which are subject to change without notice.
Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay or personal injury.
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