Cairns Aquarium
A major aquarium showcasing the reef and tropical north, rated 4.6 across more than 7,000 reviews.
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Why it's worth checking out
Cairns Aquarium, on Florence Street in the heart of Cairns City, is one of the region's premier attractions — a large, modern aquarium dedicated to the unique aquatic ecosystems of Tropical North Queensland. From the Great Barrier Reef to the rivers and rainforests of the region, it brings the area's extraordinary marine and freshwater life vividly to life.
The appeal is that immersive, family-friendly experience: thousands of animals across themed exhibits, from colourful reef fish and sharks to rays, turtles and freshwater species, with engaging displays and presentations throughout the day. It's a wonderful all-weather option and a great way to appreciate the reef's wonders up close, especially for families.
With a 4.6 rating from more than 7,000 reviews, it's a hugely popular destination. Admission, opening hours, feeding times and any special experiences vary, and it gets busy during holidays, so it's worth checking current details and considering booking ahead before you go — and allowing a couple of hours to take in the exhibits and presentations, especially if you're visiting with kids.
Reviewed by Iyan B.
Practical details
Opening hours
Closed- Monday
- 09:30 – 15:30
- TuesdayToday
- 09:30 – 15:30
- Wednesday
- 09:30 – 15:30
- Thursday
- 09:30 – 15:30
- Friday
- 09:30 – 15:30
- Saturday
- 09:30 – 15:30
- Sunday
- 09:30 – 15:30
Spot Score
- Reputation
- 84
- Popularity
- 100
- Information quality
- 30
- Category fit
- 70
- Freshness
- 30
Our independent editorial score — not a user rating.
Nearby venues
Splash Seafood Restaurant
$$A maritime-themed restaurant run by a local fishing family, with an oyster bar and Coral Sea views.
Little Sister Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
$$Little Sister Restaurant & Cocktail Bar is a restaurant in Cairns North, Cairns. It holds a 4.5-star Google rating from 968 reviews. Our editorial Spot Score is 64/100.
Cairns Burger Cafe
Casual locale serving breakfasts, burgers, snacks & desserts in down-to-earth surrounds.
Rocco by Crystalbrook
$Rocco by Crystalbrook is a bar in Cairns City, Cairns. It holds a 4.4-star Google rating from 1016 reviews. Our editorial Spot Score is 62/100.
More activities in Cairns
Rainforestation Nature Park
Veggie & BBQ buffets at 2 outdoor venues set in the lush tropical gardens of a nature reserve.
Kuranda Koala Gardens
Wildlife park where guests can hold koalas & view animals like kangaroos, snakes, lizards & wombats.
Cairns Wake Park
Playful attraction offering waterskiing for all ages & floating slides & trampolines.