Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Cairns.

Cairns Aquarium

09:30–15:30 · Every dayLast admission 14:30. Open on public holidays

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the aquarium

Cairns Aquarium is on Florence Street in the centre of Cairns, one block from the Esplanade and within walking distance of many hotels.

• By bus: the city bus terminal is one block away on Lake Street.
• By car: there is free three-hour street parking nearby, with metered spaces, a drop-off zone and disabled parking near the entrance.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Accessible bathrooms, lifts and ramps.
• A gift shop with locally made goods.
• Small lockers for hire.
• Squires Loft, a restaurant beside a marine tank.

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours inside. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

Cairns Aquarium describes itself as fully accessible, with lifts, ramps and accessible bathrooms. Accredited guide and service dogs are welcome with proof of certification.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask aquarium staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy the aquarium thoughtfully

• Keep to the visitor paths, walk rather than run, and supervise children.
• Keep your hands off the tanks unless staff invite you to the touch pool.
• Accredited guide and service dogs are welcome with proof of certification.
• Commercial photography and filming, including product promotion, need permission.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care helps keep the animals calm and the visit pleasant for everyone.

Make time for a pause

Squires Loft, the aquarium’s restaurant, sits beside a marine tank, and the streets towards the Esplanade have cafés for a meal before or after your visit.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Bring water with you, especially on warm days.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: follow your ticket’s instructions for where to enter the aquarium.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, sun protection and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: check the day’s presentation times, including the shark and ray feeds, when you arrive.