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Curaçao Sea Aquarium: An Underwater Adventure

Discover Curaçao's vibrant marine life at the Sea Aquarium: interactive encounters, educational exhibits, and unforgettable underwater experiences await the whole family.

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The Curaçao Sea Aquarium offers an immersive experience into the Caribbean's vibrant marine life. Opened in 1984, the aquarium distinguishes itself with its open-water system, directly pumping seawater into its tanks, creating natural habitats for over 400 marine creatures. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from seagrass beds to deep-water reefs, and participate in interactive feeding shows with sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. Enhanced experiences include the Underwater Observatory, Animal Encounters, and the Ocean Lens, providing unique perspectives on the underwater world. Located near Mambo Beach, the aquarium is a must-visit destination for families and marine enthusiasts seeking education and adventure.

A brief summary to Curaçao Sea Aquarium

  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of the feeding shows and animal encounters.
  • Consider purchasing a combination ticket for access to multiple attractions within the Sea Aquarium Park for better value.
  • Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to participate in any of the water-based animal encounters.
  • Check the daily schedule upon arrival to plan your visit around specific shows and feeding times.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking between exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium is accessible by bus. Head to the main bus terminal in Punda or Otrobanda and look for a bus heading towards Mambo Beach or the Seaquarium. Bus 6A runs directly to the Sea Aquarium. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. A single fare costs around ANG 2.00 (approximately US$1.25). Check the bus schedules in advance, especially for weekend or evening travel.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available in Willemstad and can take you directly to the Curaçao Sea Aquarium. A taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately US$40, depending on traffic and your exact starting point. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available in Curaçao, so taxis are the more reliable option. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving from Willemstad, follow the main road (Schottegatweg) towards the east. Continue onto Caracasbaaiweg and follow the signs for the Sea Aquarium. Once on Caracasbaai, take the first traffic light and take a right which brings you to Dr. P. Mahlweg Street. Here you will take the street down until the end and by the ocean take a left turn to Martin Luther King Blvd. There you must take the street all the way to the end, passing Princess Casino and shortly after that arriving to a large parking area. Parking is available at Mambo Beach Boulevard, a short walk from the aquarium. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around ANG 10 (US$5.60) for the day.

  • Walking

    For those staying near Mambo Beach, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium is easily accessible by foot. Walk along the beach promenade towards the Lions Dive Resort. The Sea Aquarium is located adjacent to the resort. The walk from the main Mambo Beach area takes about 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Curaçao Sea Aquarium

The Curaçao Sea Aquarium, a cornerstone of Curaçao's tourism, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the mesmerizing underwater world of the Caribbean. Established in 1984 by Adrian “Dutch” Schrier and Rudy Pizziolo, the aquarium has evolved into a multidimensional marine park, celebrated for its innovative approach to marine life preservation and education. What sets the Curaçao Sea Aquarium apart is its unique open-water system. Unlike traditional aquariums that rely on artificial water systems, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium directly pumps fresh seawater into its exhibits. This creates a natural and thriving environment for its inhabitants, mimicking the conditions of the surrounding ocean. The result is a vibrant and authentic representation of Caribbean marine ecosystems. The aquarium is home to over 400 marine animals, representing a diverse array of species found in Curaçao's waters. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, each showcasing a unique aspect of marine life. From colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish to seagrass beds inhabited by sea turtles, the aquarium offers a comprehensive overview of the region's biodiversity. Interactive experiences are a highlight of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium. Throughout the day, visitors can participate in feeding shows, where they have the opportunity to interact with sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and other marine creatures. These shows provide a hands-on learning experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the animals' behavior and ecology. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the aquarium offers a range of animal encounters. Visitors can swim with dolphins, snorkel with sea turtles, or even hand-feed sharks under the supervision of experienced guides. These encounters provide unforgettable memories and foster a sense of connection with the marine world. The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is committed to education and conservation. The aquarium's exhibits are designed to educate visitors about the importance of marine ecosystems and the threats they face. The aquarium also supports a variety of conservation initiatives, working to protect Curaçao's marine environment for future generations. Beyond its exhibits and interactive experiences, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium offers a range of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. A terrace provides a relaxing space to enjoy the ocean views, while a gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs and educational materials. The aquarium also hosts special events and programs throughout the year, providing opportunities for visitors to learn more about marine life and conservation. One of the most popular attractions at the Curaçao Sea Aquarium is the Underwater Observatory. This unique structure allows visitors to descend beneath the surface of the ocean and observe marine life in its natural habitat without getting wet. The observatory offers panoramic views of a vibrant coral reef, teeming with colorful fish and other marine creatures. Another popular attraction is the Animal Encounters lagoon, where visitors can participate in a variety of interactive programs. These programs allow visitors to get up close and personal with dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and other marine animals. The Animal Encounters lagoon is a great place to learn about marine life and create lasting memories. The Ocean Lens offers a unique perspective on the underwater world. Descend 19 steps to 5.2 meters below sea level in a cooled room with a large window. A maritime expert will introduce you to the unique Open Water System and how the Curaçao Sea Aquarium contributes to the conservation of marine life. The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is more than just an aquarium; it's a destination that combines entertainment, education, and conservation. Whether you're a marine enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply seeking to connect with nature, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium offers an unforgettable experience. Located adjacent to the Royal Sea Aquarium Resort and near Mambo Beach, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium is easily accessible and makes for a perfect addition to any Curaçao itinerary. Its commitment to preserving the marine environment, coupled with its engaging exhibits and interactive programs, makes it a standout attraction in the Caribbean.

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