Cairns Aquarium Tickets, Tours & Combos

Tickets

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Cairns Aquarium Tickets

Explore Queensland’s underwater worlds—from freshwater rivers to the Coral Sea.

Everything you get: Full-day admission to Cairns Aquarium with access to 70+ habitats, 10 regional ecosystems, and all presentations and feedings. From the forest to the reef, experience one of Australia’s most impressive aquatic displays under one roof.
Why choose this: A relaxed, all-ages introduction to the diverse marine life of Tropical North Queensland. Great for families, first-time visitors, and anyone curious about the reef environment without leaving the city.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Flexible duration

Explore Queensland’s underwater worlds—from freshwater rivers to the Coral Sea.

Everything you get: Full-day admission to Cairns Aquarium with access to 70+ habitats, 10 regional ecosystems, and all presentations and feedings. From the forest to the reef, experience one of Australia’s most impressive aquatic displays under one roof.
Why choose this: A relaxed, all-ages introduction to the diverse marine life of Tropical North Queensland. Great for families, first-time visitors, and anyone curious about the reef environment without leaving the city.

Inclusions

Entry to Cairns Aquarium
All-day access to exhibits
Access to all shows, presentations, and facilities

Tip: After your aquarium visit, walk over to Cairns Botanic Gardens to see rare tropical plants like the Torch Ginger.
Pets, outside food and drink, taking photos for commercial use without permission, flash photography, and smoking in non-designated areas are not allowed.
The venue is fully wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
There’s no onsite parking, but 3-hour free street parking is available nearby.
Children under 3 years of age are admitted free.
Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Guided Tours

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Cairns Aquarium Night Tour with Optional Dinner

Explore Cairns Aquarium after closing time with this quiet, crowd-free night tour.

Everything you get: See the rare transformation of marine and rainforest habitats after dark. No crowds, no rush—just nature at night.
Why choose this: This aquarium night tour is ideal for guests looking to avoid daytime crowds and witness the nocturnal side of the reef.
Upgrades: Include a 2-course dinner, including dishes like fried calamari and lamb chops, at the aquatic-themed Squires Loft Restaurant.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

2 hr. - 3 hr. 15 min.

Meals included

Explore Cairns Aquarium after closing time with this quiet, crowd-free night tour.

Everything you get: See the rare transformation of marine and rainforest habitats after dark. No crowds, no rush—just nature at night.
Why choose this: This aquarium night tour is ideal for guests looking to avoid daytime crowds and witness the nocturnal side of the reef.
Upgrades: Include a 2-course dinner, including dishes like fried calamari and lamb chops, at the aquatic-themed Squires Loft Restaurant.

Inclusions

2-hour guided night tour
After-hours entry to Cairns Aquarium
English-speaking wildlife educator
2-course dinner at Squires Loft Restaurant (as per option selected)

Tip: Bring a low-light camera to capture glowing corals and elusive creatures—flash photography is not permitted.
Pets, outside food and drink, taking photos for commercial use without permission, flash photography, and smoking in non-designated areas are not allowed.
The venue is fully wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
There’s no onsite parking, but 3-hour free street parking is available nearby.
Children under 3 years of age are admitted free.
Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.
The on-site restaurant will be closed for renovations. A new restaurant, Squires Loft, will open on September 20th, 2025.
This experience is only available at 5:45pm.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tickets

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Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Turtle Hospital Tour

A meaningful marine experience—see rare species and support turtle rehabilitation.

Everything you get: Get full-day access to Cairns Aquarium’s award-winning exhibits, then take a guided tour of the Turtle Hospital, where every visit helps fund vital care.
Why choose this: This ticket has both aquarium access with a behind-the-scenes look at turtle conservation, ideal for those who want to support marine life.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Flexible duration

A meaningful marine experience—see rare species and support turtle rehabilitation.

Everything you get: Get full-day access to Cairns Aquarium’s award-winning exhibits, then take a guided tour of the Turtle Hospital, where every visit helps fund vital care.
Why choose this: This ticket has both aquarium access with a behind-the-scenes look at turtle conservation, ideal for those who want to support marine life.

Inclusions

All-day admission to Cairns Aquarium
30-min guided Turtle Hospital Tour

Exclusions

Food and drinks

Tip: Dine with colorful fish at the aquarium’s Dundee’s Café & Restaurant (at your own expense). It features Australia’s largest saltwater tank in a restaurant.
Pets, outside food and drink, taking photos for commercial use without permission, flash photography, and smoking in non-designated areas are not allowed.
The venue is fully wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
There’s no onsite parking, but 3-hour free street parking is available nearby.
Children under 3 years of age are admitted free.
Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Combos

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Combo (Save 5%): From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers + Cairns Aquarium Tickets

See Cairns from rainforest heights to reef wonders—Kuranda’s best and the Aquarium in one day.

Everything you get at Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail: One-way ticket on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, and free time to explore Kuranda Village.
Everything you get at Cairns Aquarium: Full-day admission with access to 70+ habitats and 10 regional ecosystems, plus all shows and feedings.
Why choose this combo: Experience the best of Cairns above and below—lush rainforest adventures and vibrant reef life—without the hassle of separate bookings.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

See Cairns from rainforest heights to reef wonders—Kuranda’s best and the Aquarium in one day.

Everything you get at Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail: One-way ticket on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, one-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket, round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns, and free time to explore Kuranda Village.
Everything you get at Cairns Aquarium: Full-day admission with access to 70+ habitats and 10 regional ecosystems, plus all shows and feedings.
Why choose this combo: Experience the best of Cairns above and below—lush rainforest adventures and vibrant reef life—without the hassle of separate bookings.

Inclusions Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

One-way Skyrail Rainforest Cableway ticket
One-way Kuranda Scenic Railway ticket
Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairns
Free time in Kuranda Village

Cairns Aquarium

Entry to Cairns Aquarium
All-day access to exhibits
Access to all shows, presentations, and facilities

Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour

Outside drinks and smoking are not allowed.
The experience is wheelchair accessible.
The Skyrail departs from Smithfield (Cairns) Terminal, whereas the Scenic Rail departs from Freshwater Railway Station.
Children below 14 must be accompanied by an adult on the Skyrail and Scenic Rail.

Cairns Aquarium Tickets

Pets, outside food and drink, taking photos for commercial use without permission, flash photography, and smoking in non-designated areas are not allowed.
The venue is fully wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
The Marine Life Encounter requires feeding from a platform with stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.
No onsite parking; 3-hour free street parking available nearby.
Children under 3 years of age are admitted free.
Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Combos

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Combo: Tomb of the Pharaohs + Cairns Aquarium Tickets

Journey from ancient Egypt to Australia’s underwater world with one easy combo ticket

Everything you get: Get entry to Cairns Aquarium and Tomb of the Pharaohs. Start with 16,000+ marine animals from the Reef, Rainforest, Mangroves, and Coral Sea. Then explore 11 recreated burial chambers spanning 3,000 years of Egyptian history, treasures, and hieroglyphs.
Why choose this: Experience two top Cairns attractions—ancient wonders and marine marvels—with one hassle-free ticket and flexible entry times.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Flexible duration

Journey from ancient Egypt to Australia’s underwater world with one easy combo ticket

Everything you get: Get entry to Cairns Aquarium and Tomb of the Pharaohs. Start with 16,000+ marine animals from the Reef, Rainforest, Mangroves, and Coral Sea. Then explore 11 recreated burial chambers spanning 3,000 years of Egyptian history, treasures, and hieroglyphs.
Why choose this: Experience two top Cairns attractions—ancient wonders and marine marvels—with one hassle-free ticket and flexible entry times.

Inclusions

Entry to Tomb of the Pharaohs
Entry to Cairns Aquarium
Access to all shows and presentations at Cairns Aquarium

Pets are not permitted inside either venue, except for registered guide dogs with legal documentation and identification jacket.
Alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, recreational drugs, and weapons are not allowed inside the venues.
Roller blades, roller skates, skateboards, child scooters, laser pens/pointers, balloons, bubbles, stereos, and other electrical equipment are not allowed.
Selfie sticks and the use of electronic devices to cross into exhibits are prohibited.
Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas.
Flash photography is not allowed inside the venues.
Both venues are wheelchair accessible, with lifts, escalators, even ground surfaces, and accessible toilets available.
Children aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or above.

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tickets

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Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with Optional Dining

See the aquarium shift into night mode on a relaxed, guided twilight tour.

Everything you get: Exclusive after-hours entry to Cairns Aquarium, plus a two-hour guided twilight tour. Watch how aquatic life transitions from day to night and spot the Coral Sea’s largest nocturnal predators.
Why choose this: See the aquarium’s transition from day to night, with expert guides and rare nocturnal animal encounters.
Upgrades: You can upgrade to a 3-course dinner with dishes like fried calamari and sticky date pudding at the aquatic-themed Squires Loft restaurant.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

2 hr. 15 min. - 3 hr. 45 min.

Meals included

See the aquarium shift into night mode on a relaxed, guided twilight tour.

Everything you get: Exclusive after-hours entry to Cairns Aquarium, plus a two-hour guided twilight tour. Watch how aquatic life transitions from day to night and spot the Coral Sea’s largest nocturnal predators.
Why choose this: See the aquarium’s transition from day to night, with expert guides and rare nocturnal animal encounters.
Upgrades: You can upgrade to a 3-course dinner with dishes like fried calamari and sticky date pudding at the aquatic-themed Squires Loft restaurant.

Inclusions

Exclusive after-hours entry to Cairns Aquarium
2-hour guided twilight tour through 10 tropical ecosystems
3-course dinner at Squires Loft Restaurant (as per option selected)

Pets and outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the aquarium.
The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, with lifts, escalators, and accessible toilets available throughout the attraction.
Meals for infants are not included unless a child fare is booked.
The on-site restaurant will be closed for renovations. A new restaurant, Squires Loft, will open on September 20th, 2025.
This experience starts at 3pm.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tickets

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Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium

Go behind the scenes at Cairns Aquarium with exclusive animal encounters and expert guidance.

Everything you get: A guided tour led by a wildlife educator with access to both public and behind-the-scenes areas. Visit the turtle rehabilitation centre, see a River Monsters scatter feed, hand-feed Cownose stingrays, and explore the reptile breeding facility.
Why choose this: This is the only Cairns Aquarium experience that lets you hand-feed sting rays, tour the turtle hospital, and access areas not open to the public.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

3 hr.

Go behind the scenes at Cairns Aquarium with exclusive animal encounters and expert guidance.

Everything you get: A guided tour led by a wildlife educator with access to both public and behind-the-scenes areas. Visit the turtle rehabilitation centre, see a River Monsters scatter feed, hand-feed Cownose stingrays, and explore the reptile breeding facility.
Why choose this: This is the only Cairns Aquarium experience that lets you hand-feed sting rays, tour the turtle hospital, and access areas not open to the public.

Inclusions

Entry into Cairns Aquarium
Fully guided, personalized 3-hour tour
Cownose Ray encounter including hand-feeding experience
Behind the Scenes, Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, and River Monsters Scatter Feeding

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Pets, touching the animals and their enclosures, loud noises, and running are not permitted inside the aquarium.
Wheelchair and pram access is available for the self-guided walk through the aquarium.
The behind-the-scenes guided tour is not wheelchair or pram accessible.
Children must be 12 years or older to participate in hand feeding the rays; a souvenir gift will be provided for children under 12.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Plan your visit to Cairns Aquarium: Hours, Location & Tips

Family observing sea turtles at Cairns Turtle Hospital, Cairns aquarium.

Opening hours: Open daily from 9:30am – 3:30pm (including public holidays)

Last admission: 2:30pm

Best time to visit Cairns Aquarium

Wet season (Nov–Apr): Hot, humid, and rainy—perfect for a crowd-free indoor visit. The Turtle Rehabilitation Centre is more active with rescued turtles during this time.
Dry season (May–Oct): Cooler and busier, especially from June–Aug. A great way to escape the crowds and enjoy marine life indoors.
Best time of day: Visit between 10 am–12 pm for fewer crowds. Midday to early afternoon is ideal for talks and feedings. Twilight & Night Tours offer rare views of nocturnal creatures.

Check opening hours and more

Address: 5 Florence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

Locate Cairns Aquarium on the map.

By bus: Cairns Aquarium is easily accessible by Sunbus (Kinetic) routes like 110, 111, 120, and 130. Nearby stops include Florence St and Cairns Central Terminus, just a short walk away. Fares start from AUD $1–3.

By walk: Cairns Aquarium is a 5–15 minute walk from the Esplanade, cruise terminal, and major hotels in the city center.

By car/taxi: Cairns Aquarium is at 5 Florence Street with nearby free and metered parking, accessible spots, and a drop-off zone. Taxis or rideshares from the CBD take 2–5 minutes and cost around AUD 6–8.

For more information on getting to Cairns Aquarium, click here.

More about location

Map of aquarium layout with amphitheaters, aquatic animals, and facilities.

Ground floor:
Explore river monsters, freshwater whiprays, and leopard sharks at the Oceanarium. Find the gift shop, restrooms, and Coral Sea Amphitheatre here.

First floor:
See reef fish, jellyfish, and crocodiles up close. This level hosts the Turtle Hospital, marine touch tanks, and daily presentations.

View all Cairns Aquarium zones

Modern locker room with wooden benches and secure lockers, ideal for storing belongings during tours.

Small rental lockers
Toilets with change tables
Water fountains
Souvenir shop access
Air-conditioned indoor
Elevators
Ramps-accessible bathrooms
Entry to guide/service dogs with proof of certificate

Plan your visit

Cairns Aquarium guided tour showcasing diverse marine life exhibits.

Check the daily schedule so you can catch feeding times and animal presentations.
Arrive between 10am and 12pm for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the aquarium spans three levels and involves a lot of walking.
Bring a light jacket, as the indoor climate-controlled environment can feel cool.
Take your time in the shark tunnel—it's one of the aquarium’s main highlights.
Stop by the touch tanks for a hands-on experience with sea stars, rays, and more.
Consider booking a behind-the-scenes tour like the Marine Life Encounter or Turtle Rehabilitation Tour.
Visit the gift shop for marine-themed souvenirs, eco-friendly items, and educational books.
Photography is allowed, so bring your camera—but avoid using a flash.

Cairns Aquarium twilight dining experience with guests enjoying a 3-course meal.

Dundee’s Café: Dine beside a giant reef tank with sharks, with a selection of seafood, steaks, and plant-based dishes. It is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Café: Offers coffee, pastries, and light bites from late morning to early afternoon.

Frequently asked questions about Cairns Aquarium tickets

What types of Cairns Aquarium tickets can I buy?

You can choose from General Admission (from AU$58), Turtle Hospital Tour tickets (from AU$78), Marine Life Encounter (from AU$299), Twilight Tours (from AU$85), Night Tours (from AU$85), and combo tickets with other Cairns attractions like Kuranda Scenic Rail (from AU$240.35).

Are there any Cairns Aquarium discount tickets available?

Yes! You can find Cairns Aquarium discount tickets for families, concession card holders, and during select seasons. Booking online also gives access to exclusive ticket deals and combos, including options with the Kuranda Scenic Rail.

What is the difference between the Night Tour, Twilight Tour & Marine Life Encounter?

Twilight Tours begin earlier and include a 3-course dinner—great for families or early evening plans. Night Tours start later and include a 2-course dinner, offering a quieter atmosphere and a closer look at nocturnal species. Marine Life Encounter is a premium, behind-the-scenes experience without dining, perfect for animal lovers and future marine biologists.

What is the Turtle Hospital Tour and is it included in general admission?

It’s a rescue and rehab center for injured sea turtles. Entry is not included—you’ll need to book the Turtle Hospital tour as an add-on.

How long does it take to go through the aquarium?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring the exhibits at a relaxed pace. If you're attending presentations, adding a Turtle Hospital tour, or booking the Marine Life Encounter, plan for at least 3 to 4 hours. Including a reef-side meal at Dundee’s Café can extend your visit comfortably to half a day, perfect for a full, sea-worthy experience.

Is it suitable for children and families?

Yes! The aquarium is very family-friendly, with touch tanks, interactive exhibits, and live animal presentations perfect for kids.

Is there a place to eat inside the aquarium?

Yes, you can eat dinner, snacks, and drinks with a view into the aquarium’s marine tank.

Can I take photos inside?

Yes, photography is allowed throughout the aquarium, but please avoid using flash to protect the animals.

Are pets allowed?

No, pets are not allowed inside, except for certified assistance animals.

Is there parking available nearby?

Yes, there is metered street parking near the entrance, along with free 3-hour zones and nearby paid parking lots.

Is the aquarium open in bad weather?

Yes! Cairns Aquarium is completely indoors and climate-controlled, making it a perfect all-weather activity.

Can I re-enter the aquarium on the same day?

Yes, re-entry is permitted—just check with the front desk to get a hand stamp or wristband.

Can I learn about the Great Barrier Reef at the aquarium?

Yes! If you can’t visit the reef, this is the next best thing—reef sharks, clownfish, and coral life up close, plus expert talks at different zones.

Not sure which tour to pick—Twilight, Night, or Marine Life Encounter?

Twilight is early and includes a 3-course dinner. The Night tour is later, and has a 2-course dinner. The Marine Life Encounter has no dinner, but is hands-on and behind-the-scenes.

What about sensory sensitivities (noise, light)?

Mornings are calmer. The aquarium is generally low-light, but some areas can get noisy during talks.

Are there quiet or sensory-friendly times?

Yes, 9:30–10:30am on weekdays is the quietest. Fewer crowds, softer sounds.

Are there visual guides or social stories for autistic visitors?

Not officially, but the staff are helpful. Contact ahead for support or to plan a low-sensory visit.

Can you feed the animals?

Only during special tours like Marine Life Encounter, you may help feed rays or freshwater fish.

Where do the animals come from?

Most are rescued, born in captivity, or transferred from licensed facilities. No wild captures.

Can I bring a service animal, even on tours?

Yes, certified service animals are allowed, including on guided and behind-the-scenes tours.