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Plan Your Visit to Cairns Aquarium

Your guide to visiting Cairns Aquarium

Located in the heart of Tropical North Queensland, Cairns Aquarium brings Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics to life—indoors. Here’s everything you need to know before you visit Cairns Aquarium—from timings and directions to facilities, gift shops, and expert tips.

Visitor information at a glance

What are Cairns Aquarium's opening hours?

Open daily from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Last entry is 2:30pm. Closed on select public holidays.

Where is Cairns Aquarium located?

Open daily from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Last entry is 2:30pm. Closed on select public holidays.

Is parking available at Cairns Aquarium?

Open daily from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Last entry is 2:30pm. Closed on select public holidays.

Is Cairns Aquarium wheelchair accessible?

Open daily from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Last entry is 2:30pm. Closed on select public holidays.

Cairns Aquarium timings

Guest inside the Cairns Aquarium Tunnel

Opening hours: 9:30am – 3:30pm daily (last entry at 2:30pm)

Best time to visit

  • Peak vs. low season: June–October is dry, sunny, and busy. November–March is quieter with summer rains—great for fewer crowds and slower exploring.
  • Weekdays vs. weekends: Weekdays, especially mid-morning, are the calmest. Weekends and school holidays get crowded—arrive early for the best experience.
Read more here

Don’t miss the Cairns Aquarium gift shop

Pick up reef-inspired keepsakes, plush marine animals, and locally made eco-products at the aquarium’s gift shop. Bestsellers include sea turtle soft toys, coral-themed stationery, and sustainable bamboo wares. Great for last-minute gifts or fun souvenirs—drop by before you exit.

Know before you visit Cairns Aquarium

Man placing bag in locker at tourist attraction.
  • Small rental lockers
  • Toilets with change tables 
  • Water fountains
  • Souvenir shop access
  • Air-conditioned indoor
  • Dundee’s Café
Guided nocturnal tour inside Cairns Aquarium featuring Dundees Restaurant.
  • Café: Offers coffee, pastries, and light bites from late morning to early afternoon.
  • Dundee’s Café: Dine beside a giant reef tank with sharks, with a selection of seafood, steaks, and plant-based dishes. (closing soon, click here for more details)
Read more about Dinner Tours
Wheelchair-accessible entrance at Universal Studios Singapore.
  • Cairns Aquarium is fully wheelchair-accessible with ramps, elevators, and wide pathways throughout the venue.
  • Accessible restrooms are available on every level, and both the gift shop and the on-site restaurant are mobility-friendly.
  • Wheelchairs can be requested at the entrance—just ask the staff when you arrive.
No outside food sign at a tourist attraction entrance.
  • Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed inside the aquarium.
  • Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Photography is welcome—just skip the flash to protect the animals.
  • Certified service animals are allowed throughout the venue.

Things to do near Cairns Aquarium

Woman enjoying coffee
  • Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: A free public pool with ocean views — 6 min walk
  • Cairns Zoom & Wildlife Dome: Rooftop ziplining and wildlife encounters — 8 min walk
  • Rusty’s Markets: Tropical fruit, coffee, and local treats — 10 min walk
  • Reef Fleet Terminal: Gateway to Great Barrier Reef tours — 9 min walk
  • The Pier Shopping Centre: Boutiques, cafes, and marina views — 5 min walk

Tips to make the most of your visit to Cairns Aquarium

  • Visiting with kids? Pack swimwear or quick-dry clothes—the splash zone at the outdoor gardens (near the café) is open seasonally and catches families by surprise.
  • Twilight Tours begin in the early evening and operate under low light—wear dark clothing to reduce reflections if you’re planning to take photos.
  • Parking fills fast on weekends. Cairns Central Shopping Centre (5 mins walk) has more reliable all-day parking than the smaller surrounding lots.

Frequently asked questions about planning a visit to Cairns Aquarium

How much time should I plan to visit Cairns Aquarium?

Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring all the zones, attending talks, and enjoying the café or gift shop. If you're adding a guided tour or dinner, budget up to 4 hours.

Are there good photo spots inside the aquarium?

Yes! The Oceanarium Tunnel and Coral Sea exhibit are Insta-worthy favorites. Just remember: no flash—the animals prefer it natural.

Is the aquarium cold inside? Should I bring a jacket?

Yes, it’s air-conditioned throughout to keep animals comfy. Bring a light layer if you get chilly easily—especially during longer stays or if you're traveling with little ones.

Are there vegan or allergy-friendly food options?

Yes! Dundee’s Café offers plant-based meals and gluten-free options. If you have dietary needs, just let staff know—they’re happy to accommodate where possible.

What should I do if it’s raining when I visit Cairns Aquarium?

No worries! It’s fully indoors, so it’s the perfect rainy-day plan. Bring a small umbrella for the walk from the car or bus stop.

What payment methods are accepted at Cairns Aquarium?

You can pay by card, contactless, or cash at the entry, café, and gift shop. Most visitors use Visa, Mastercard, or Apple Pay for quick checkout.

Is Cairns Aquarium good for toddlers and young kids?

Yes, it’s very kid-friendly! There are touch tanks, low viewing windows, and presentations kids love. Strollers are allowed inside, and restrooms have changing tables too.

Top Things to do in Cairns
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