There are experiences out there that most of us can only dream of attaining, but if we try hard enough and save up the money, maybe one day they can become a reality.

A place like Cairns is home to so many of those opportunities and while the Great Barrier Reef serves as the primary example of that, it’s not the only reason why the gateway city is so unbelievably popular.

People may come for the reefs but they’ll stay because, ultimately, it’s a destination that wins the hearts of millions every single year.

One activity that has been a consistent force in the tourism wave that Cairns has enjoyed in recent years is the Cairns Aquarium.

From the animals to the sense of adventure it really is special, and that’s why we want to talk about why buying Cairns Aquarium tickets should absolutely be on your to do list.

What are the best things to do and see at Cairns Aquarium?

It almost seems too obvious to say at this point, but Cairns Aquarium is home to so many amazing creatures. There are over 16,000 animals to see with every visit being different to the last.

There are specific tours that head around different habitats, Platinum Passes that allow visitors to go behind the scenes to really see how things operate, and talks such as the Flooded Billabong River Monsters or Marine Encounter Touch and Talk.

It’s quite cliche to say but there’s fun to be had for all the family regardless of how old or young they may be.

The habitats include River Systems (catfish, stonefish etc.), Creeks & Streams (prawns, crayfish), Tropical Rainforest (snakes, lizards, frogs), Forest Floor (spiders, insects) and so much more.

There’s no limit to what can be seen and if you’re frightened of certain creatures or animals then don’t worry - because Cairns Aquarium can be as laid back as you want it to be.

Even the Research & Development experts are great to talk to in what can only be described as an unbelievably wholesome place.

How much do Cairns Aquarium tickets cost?

There are so many different things to see and do at Cairns Aquarium, and because of that, there are many different package prices for those who want to really fine-tune their experience. Cairns Aquarium tickets also include Annual Passes, but if you’re heading there on holiday, that may not be the right option.

Adults (15+) are charged A$44 for general admission entry with Children between the ages of 3 and 14 being charged A$29. There are concession tickets available for Seniors and Students of A$36 with infants getting in for free.

If you’re coming in a family of two adults and two children, there’s a discount price of A$132.

How long does it take to get to Cairns Aquarium from Cairns?

If the name didn’t give it away, Cairns Aquarium is located pretty centrally in the heart of the city. Regardless of where you’re staying in Cairns there’s probably a strong chance it won’t take longer than 10-15 minutes to get down here, whether it be through walking or the many public transport options that are around.

It’s right down by the Marina so, in terms of directions, it isn’t all too strenuous to find out where you’re going.

What are Cairns Aquarium’s opening hours?

From Monday to Sunday, outside of certain occasions and the possibility of restrictions due to COVID-19, you’ll be able to explore Cairns Aquarium between the hours of 10am and 3pm. The time really does fly by when you’re in there, but it’s important to know that the last admissions are at 2pm.

Are there any other fun theme parks in Cairns?

There are so many other unbelievable parks to feast your eyes on around the Cairns area that it almost feels odd limiting it down to just a few. Alas, there are some truly amazing combo tours out there, with these being a few of our favourites.

Crocs & Creatures

If you really want to test yourself to the absolute limit within the context of traveling, then this may be the right package. Here, you’ll have a jam-packed day of fun and festivities in North Queensland with a trip to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure and Cairns Aquarium in the space of a day.

Skyrail & Kuranda Train

The wonders of the Aquarium are unique but in order to really go above and beyond, it’s essential to see things from the perspective of the rainforest and reefs. This package includes a visit to the Cairns Aquarium, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway all in one day. Plus, Kuranda is a hub of culture within the park sector, and there will likely be another spot to visit around every corner.

Oh, and if you walk down the road, the Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome will be there to say hello.

Travel tips

The aura of any aquarium tends to focus around the mystery of the animals that sit before our very eyes, but in this instance, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. For that reason we highly recommend abiding by the rules of not touching the glass because aside from not wanting to break it, you also don’t want to irritate the special guys and girls that live in the water.
The Aquarium is right down by the water so instead of just going there and heading back to your hotel, really research some of the other cool places to eat and drink that are around the area. From restaurants to cafes and beyond, it’s a gold mine.
One of the best parts of the Aquarium is that the opening hours force you to really take in as much as you can in the limited time provided. So, instead of rushing through it, really embrace the five-hour slot and spread out the many available activities.