Top Australia Aquariums in 2026

Discover Two Worlds in One Day: Tomb of the Pharaohs & Cairns Aquarium Immerse yourself in two unforgettable experiences in the heart of Cairns. Step back in time at the Tomb of the Pharaohs, where you’ll explore life-sized recreations of 11 ancient Egyptian tombs, complete with detailed hieroglyphics, burial treasures, and over 450 museum-quality replicas. Then, dive into the wonders of Tropical North Queensland at the Cairns Aquarium, home to over 16,000 marine creatures from the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding ecosystems. From mummies to marine life, this unique cultural and natural journey is perfect for families, history lovers, and curious explorers alike—all within walking distance in the city center.

Be amazed and take a journey of discovery through SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s themed zones including the Penguin Expedition. Experience the sub-Antarctic during and interactive exhibit to meet spectacular King and Gentoo penguins. Come face-to-fin with more than 4,000 animals from 300 different species including majestic dugongs, grey nurse sharks, jellyfish, and an array of tropical fish.

Dive into the watery world of Australia’s native marine creatures at the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium. Get an up-close view of penguins, sharks, stingrays, seahorses, and more as you explore the distinct ecosystems at the beautifully designed aquarium. Ensure your admission with this ticket so you don’t risk missing out on watching the playful penguins and other residents.

As the sun goes down on the Great Barrier Reef, a whole new world awakens. Corals glow, colourful reef fish seek shelter and predators begin their night hunt. At the same time, coastal forests stir with life, as reptiles, amphibians and insects emerge from their burrows to seek out food in the safety of the shadows. Night at the Aquarium gives you a glimpse into the unique world of the region’s nocturnal creatures and their behaviours as they move about in the darkness.

Guarantee your entry to Cairns Aquarium, by booking your admission ticket in advance. Family-friendly and fun, Cairns Aquarium is home to 70 different exhibits that house over 16,000 marine and land animals life from the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland's Wet Tropics Rainforest.

Not only do you have general admission to the Cairns Aquarium, this ticket also provides a tour of the Turtle Hospital. Here rescue turtles are cared for by experts. The hospital experience lasts around a half hour, but you are free to take as much time as you like in the aquarium. There are tens of thousands of Great Barrier Reef species to learn about.

Enjoy an evening of wildlife and fine dining with this night at Cairns Aquarium that combines a guided after-hours tour and a 2-course meal amid floor-to-ceiling glass fish tanks. Joining a wildlife education for the 1.5-hour aquarium tour is a chance to see a side of the Cains Aquarium that most miss—showcasing nocturnal creatures from the Great Barrier Reef to the Coral Sea.

Observe how Cairns’ marine wildlife behaves at night in this after-hours tour of the Cairns Aquarium. Enjoy exclusive evening entry to the aquarium after closing time and benefit from your ecologist guide's insights insights into the nighttime behavior of reptiles, amphibians, insects that make their home in Cairns.

Enjoy a close encounter with Australia's native animals at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the Gold Coast. Your ticket includes admission to the park plus daily keeper presentations and animal shows. Admire critters such as the kangaroo, Tasmanian devil, koala, wombat, echidna, and reptiles that live in natural-style bush and rainforest habitats. Walk through the stunning 5-acre forest of the Lost Valley and see unique flora and wildlife such as lemurs, red pandas, capybaras, and other exotic reptiles.

Take a leisurely river cruise from Brisbane to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary on this two-in-one, time-saving tour. This half-day tour departs from bustling Southbank and cruises along the Brisbane River with views of iconic landmarks on the way to Lone Pine. Upon arrival, enjoy ample time to view the animals, from koalas and platypus to kangaroos and more.

To visit the Cairns Aquarium without the crowds, get special after-hours access. You can take your time without jostling with others for the best views of the sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The glass viewing tunnel is a highlight. Learn more about the creatures you see from your personal guide. After the tour, top off your night with dinner at Squire's Loft.

Discover an unforgettable underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, where you can explore fascinating marine habitats and encounter amazing creatures including sharks, rays, penguins, jellyfish, seahorses, and colourful fish. Wander through immersive exhibits, enjoy interactive experiences, and learn about the incredible underwater world at your own pace. Perfect for families, friends, and visitors of all ages, this aquarium experience offers a fun and educational way to discover Melbourne’s marine life. Book your admission ticket today and dive into an exciting aquatic adventure!

Swim among sharks, stingrays and other magnificent marine creatures with a thrilling shark dive at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium! Don a wet suit and SCUBA mask, and splash into the massive Oceanarium where you'll be within arm’s reach of Speartooth, Leopard and Sandbar Whaler Sharks, giant Stingrays, and schools of brilliantly colored fish. No SCUBA experience is necessary, and an expert guide will accompany you to ensure a safe and educational dive.

Cairns Aquarium is one of the city’s top attractions, but to learn more about its residents—and its conservation work—a behind-the-scenes tour is the way to visit. A wildlife educator takes you around, giving you access to parts that the general public usually can’t enter. Visit the turtle hospital, handfeed cownose rays, and get insider insights at the reptile breeding facility. Learn more than you would on a regular visit.

Unlock the best of Melbourne in 2 or 3 days and save up to 75% on access to unmissable experiences. From stunning skyline views at the Skydeck to thrilling wildlife encounters in Phillip Island Nature Parks, the Melbourne Unlimited Pass offers a perfect mix of adventure and culture. Explore historical landmarks, enjoy family-friendly activities, and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits that bring the city's vibrant spirit to life. With a free digital destination guide, map, and multimedia self-guided walking tour included, navigating Melbourne's best attractions has never been easier.

Unlock the best of Sydney with the Sydney Unlimited Pass and save up to 80% on access to premier attractions and activities. You'll also get a complimentary digital guide and map, including a multimedia self-guided walking tour of Sydney to help you get the most out of your time in the city.