What are the Cairns Aquarium opening hours during school holidays?

Cairns Aquarium maintains its regular timings—9:30am to 3:30pm—even during school holidays. It’s a popular time, so early arrival is recommended.

Can I re-enter the aquarium once I’ve left?

Re-entry is permitted on the same day. Just speak to the front desk before exiting, and they’ll stamp your hand or validate your ticket for return.

Are there extended Cairns Aquarium times for special events?

Yes. For special experiences like the <link linkType="internal" newTab="false" url="" id="RD1lBeuq" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6879d3d5907a86d90e45057c" text="Marine Life Encounter" uid="www.cairnstickets.com.cairns-aquarium.marine-life-encounter" /> or private functions, Cairns Aquarium may operate beyond standard hours. Check your ticket details or the official site for timings.

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Visit early—around 9:30am—for a quieter experience. Mid-mornings and school holidays tend to be the busiest at Cairns Aquarium.

Do the aquarium Cairns opening hours change seasonally?

No, the opening hours remain the same throughout the year. However, tour times like <link linkType="internal" newTab="false" url="" id="aAvboRzg" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="687789fa2b89a193dac7c187" text="Night at the Aquarium" uid="www.cairnstickets.com.cairns-aquarium.night-tour" /> and <link linkType="internal" newTab="false" url="" id="lHX0UjWB" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6878c466506b36527fd5598c" text="Aquarium by Twilight" uid="www.cairnstickets.com.cairns-aquarium.twilight-tour" /> may vary slightly based on sunset hours—always confirm when booking.

Cairns Aquarium Opening Hours | Daily Admission & Tour Times

Cairns Aquarium

The Cairns Aquarium is open every day from 9:30am to 3:30pm.

Last admission at 2:30pm

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday (Today)	09:30–15:30	14:30
Tuesday	09:30–15:30	14:30
Wednesday	09:30–15:30	14:30
Thursday	09:30–15:30	14:30
Friday	09:30–15:30	14:30
Saturday	09:30–15:30	14:30
Sunday	09:30–15:30	14:30

Book Cairns Aquarium tickets

Cairns Aquarium Tickets

Free cancellation

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Flexible duration

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Cairns Aquarium Night Tour with Optional Dinner

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2 hr. - 3 hr. 15 min.

Meals included

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Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Turtle Hospital Tour

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Combo: Tomb of the Pharaohs + Cairns Aquarium Tickets

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Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with Optional Dining

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

Meals included

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

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Transfers available

Pickup available

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Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium

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3 hr.

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Best time to visit the Cairns Aquarium

Peak season vs low season

Peak season: April to October (dry); Low season: November to March (wet)

Cairns has two distinct seasons, the wet and the dry season. The summer (wet season), has cloudy days with chances of rain that may interrupt outdoor plans. The winter (dry season), is more pleasant with fewer showers and temperatures don't drop much. The shoulder seasons in Cairns are from April to May and September to October and are the best time to visit the city. There may be chances of a few showers, but crowds are fewer at these times and affordable pricing is available for travel and accommodation.

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Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long do you need to spend at Cairns Aquarium?

Standard entry

Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the main exhibits, aquariums, and daily presentations. That’s plenty of time to see everything at your own pace without feeling rushed.

Special tours & encounters

If you’re joining a Twilight or Night Tour, Turtle Hospital visit, or Marine Life Encounter, set aside 3 to 4 hours. These experiences dive deeper into conservation stories and behind-the-scenes access, so you’ll want extra time.