Dive into the Wonders of the Cairns Aquarium
Discover the breathtaking marine life of Australia at the Cairns Aquarium, the ultimate underwater experience in the heart of Cairns.
Nestled in the heart of Cairns, the Cairns Aquarium is an extraordinary destination that showcases the vibrant marine life of Australia. As the only aquarium in the world dedicated exclusively to the unique ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef and its surrounding environments, this attraction provides an in-depth look at the underwater world. Visitors can wander through various exhibits, featuring everything from colorful coral reefs to fascinating freshwater habitats, all teeming with life. The aquarium is designed to educate and inspire, making it a perfect stop for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the ocean. Engaging displays and informative presentations allow guests to learn about the conservation efforts necessary to protect these fragile ecosystems and the incredible species that inhabit them. Within its walls, you can observe everything from majestic sharks and graceful rays to playful sea turtles and vibrant clownfish, all in carefully recreated habitats that mirror their natural environments. Additionally, the Cairns Aquarium offers interactive experiences, including the chance to participate in feeding sessions and behind-the-scenes tours, further enhancing the visitor experience. With its commitment to education and conservation, this aquarium not only entertains but also fosters a deeper understanding of marine life and the importance of protecting our oceans. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Cairns Aquarium is a must-see attraction that promises a memorable adventure under the sea.
Local tips
- Visit during feeding times for a more interactive experience.
- Check the schedule for special talks and presentations offered throughout the day.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore all the exhibits.
- Consider purchasing tickets online to avoid long queues.
- Bring a camera to capture the vibrant marine life, but avoid using flash.
A brief summary to Cairns Aquarium
- 5 Florence St, Cairns City, Queensland, 4870, AU
- +61740447300
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Cairns Aquarium from Palm Cove, you can take the public bus service. Head to the nearest bus stop in Palm Cove, which is typically located on Williams Esplanade. Look for the Sunbus routes heading towards Cairns. The bus number you need is '110', and it runs regularly. The journey will take about 30 minutes. Make sure to pay the fare, which is approximately AUD 5.50 for a single trip.
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Shuttle Service
Another option is to use a shuttle service, which can be booked through local tour operators. Shuttle services may vary in cost but typically range from AUD 25 to AUD 40 per person for a one-way trip. Confirm the pickup location and time in Palm Cove while booking.
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Walking
For the more adventurous, you can walk to Cairns Aquarium, although it is quite a distance. From Palm Cove, head south along the coast on the beach path until you reach the end of the beach. Then, take the road towards Cairns City. This walk is approximately 25 kilometers and will take around 5-6 hours. Make sure to carry water and wear comfortable shoes if you choose this option.
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Taxi or Rideshare
You can also opt for a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. Simply request a ride through the app or flag down a taxi. The ride to Cairns Aquarium will take about 25 minutes and may cost between AUD 40 to AUD 60 depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Cairns Aquarium
- Reef Experience
- Bulmba-ja arts centre
- NorthSite Contemporary Arts (formerly KickArts)
- Saint Monica's Cathedral
- Cairns Self-Guided Heritage Walk
- Michiko Memorial Garden
- Jacob's Tree
- Esplanade
- Munro Martin Parklands
- Cairns Night Markets
- Night Markets
- Cairns esplanade scenic walkway
- Cairns Museum
- Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
- Cairns Art Gallery
Landmarks nearby to Cairns Aquarium
- Visit Port Douglas
- Great Barrier Reef Tours Port Douglas
- visit australia
- Visit Whitsunday Islands
- Cairns Australia
- Reef Encounter
- Things to do in Cairns
- Cairns on a Budget
- Great Barrier Reef Tours
- Cairns Cenotaph
- Cairns Performing Arts Centre
- Muddy‘s Playground
- Cairns City Sunday Walk
- The Reef Eye
- Cairns Masonic Temple