Cairns Aquarium
Cairns Aquarium is a great way to sample 2 World Heritage-listed areas at once! The Great Barrier Reef as well as the Wet Tropics of Far North Queensland.Â
While having fun and exploring, also learning lots of new and exciting things about North Queensland.
Cairns Aquarium is the first aquarium in the world dedicated to the species and habitats of North Queensland. Featuring exhibitions of the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
Discover 16,000 creatures from the reef and rainforest.  Then discover five unique habitats, including The Great Barrier Reef, Gulf Savannah and Cape York.
There is so much to see, from snakes and lizards to sea stars and clownfish.
Next, explore the different habitats at your own speed while always learning about this region.
Questions and assistance
Ask the friendly staff any questions they will be delighted to share their knowledge with you.
While you are at the Aquarium, enjoy the informative presentations offered throughout the day.
Visit the Cairns Aquarium after hours!
Aquarium by Twilight, including a 2-hour Ecologist, guided tour, canapes and drinks followed by dinner and dessert.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns the Cairns Aquarium?
The Aquarium is privately owned by partners Daniel Leipnik and Andrew Preston.
Is Cairns Aquarium open?
Yes, 365 days a year from 10 am to 3 pm.
Where is the Cairns Aquarium?
The Cairns Aquarium is located on the corner of Florence and Abbott Streets in Cairns city. The entrance is on Florence Street.
After a fantastic day at the Cairns Aquarium, you will be excited to see the Great Barrier Reef. Click the link to see the best options.
Highlights
Flooded Billabongs
Home to Freshwater Sawfish, the iconic Barramundi, and Whiptail Ray.
The Rainforest
A rainforest inside an Aquarium?! Spot tropical snakes, Emerald tree Monitors, and Frogs.
The Mangroves
Learn about the fascinating biodiversity of the mangrove habitat. Keep an eye out for baby crocodiles while walking along the boardwalk!
Great Barrier Reef
Take in the sheer expanse and beauty of Australia’s only 10-metre deep reef tank!
Coral Sea
Then discover the 20 metre Underwater Viewing Tunnel. Featuring a 360° view Oceanarium.
Itinerary
Presentation Times
- 12:00 Shark and Ray Feeding presentation. Held in the Ocean Room.
- 13:00 River Monsters presentation. Held in the River Monsters Amphitheater.
- 14:00 Denizens Of The Deep presentation. Held in the Deep Reef Amphitheater.
- ALL DAY Marine Touch Tank, Level 1.
Aquarium by Twilight
- 15:45 Arrive at Cairns Aquarium – time to choose your drink, main and dessert
- 16:00 Ecologist guided twilight tour
- 17:30 Drink and canapes served in the Oceanarium
- 18:00 – 19:30 dinner and dessert at Dundee’s Restaurant
Optional Extras
- Upgrade and enjoy a delicious 2-course lunch (main meal with a choice of a soft drink OR dessert) at the famous Dundees Restaurant. (NOT available Monday or Tuesday)
- Coffee, morning and afternoon tea all available at Dundees Restaurant (NOT available Monday or Tuesday)
How to get there
The Cairns Aquarium is located right in Cairns’ centre on the corner of Abbott Street and Florence Streets. Opposite the Cairns Tour Booking Centre.
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