Located within the Cairns Aquarium, the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run facility dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick and injured sea turtles. Visitors can take a 30-minute guided tour to learn about the threats facing these marine creatures and the efforts being made to protect them.
Meet rescued turtles recovering from entanglement, plastic ingestion, or boat strike injuries.
Meet rescued turtles recovering from entanglement, plastic ingestion, or boat strike injuries.
Apart from other creatures, see different sea turtle species like Green, Hawksbill, and Olive Ridley turtles—each with their own recovery story.
Learn from marine biologists and rehabilitation staff about threats facing turtles and how you can help protect them.
View the rehab centre’s tanks, life support systems, and feeding prep areas used in the recovery process.
Understand how your ticket directly supports ongoing care, research, and eventual turtle releases into the wild.
It’s one of the most common causes of ‘floating syndrome.’
Admissions vary depending on the season and local environmental conditions. During nesting season or cyclone season, the Cairns Aquarium Turtle Hospital may receive more injured or stranded turtles. On average, several turtles are admitted each month for treatment.
While the tour focuses on education, you might catch live feeding or see treatments if they’re scheduled during your visit. These moments are never guaranteed but offer an incredible behind-the-scenes glimpse into turtle care if you're lucky!
Most turtles are rehabilitated and released back into the wild. However, in rare cases where a turtle’s injuries are too severe for survival in the ocean, they may be given permanent sanctuary—either within the aquarium or through special marine programs.
Yes! Guests can support the hospital’s efforts by symbolically adopting a sea turtle. Adoption packs typically include updates on your turtle, photos, and a certificate, helping fund food, medication, and rehabilitation equipment.
Visitors are requested to maintain a quiet environment during the tour, as loud noises can stress the recovering turtles. This ensures a peaceful setting conducive to the turtles' rehabilitation.
Cairns Aquarium Tickets
Cairns Aquarium Night Tour with Optional Dinner
Cairns Aquarium General Admission Tickets with Turtle Hospital Tour
Combo: Tomb of the Pharaohs + Cairns Aquarium Tickets
Combo (Save 5%): From Cairns: Scenic Train & Skyrail Kuranda Tour with Transfers + Cairns Aquarium Tickets
Cairns Aquarium by Twilight with Optional Dining
Marine Life Encounter at Cairns Aquarium
