coral under a UV light
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an icon showing a car with a 'P' sign showing parking is available at this location
an icon of two chairs and a table showing this place has seating available
an icon showing a climbing frame and slide showing that a playground is available at this location

In this comprehensive guide to Perth Aquarium, we highlight its must-see exhibits and all the essential information to plan your visit and make the most of your day.

Explore Australia’s largest aquarium, complete with a 98m long underwater tunnel, deadly animals exhibit, local marine life, a touch pool (think along the lines of Finding Dory), and more!

The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) is the ultimate destination for marine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, young and old!

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a family watching the large ocean exhibit at Perth Aquarium (AQWA) from the underwater viewing windows
The Rottnest Coral Reef exhibit is one of AQWA’s highlights

Essential Info

Duration

2-3 hours

Opening Times

9 – 4 Daily

Ticket Price

Standard entry is $19 for kids (3 to 15 years old), and $34 for adults. Annual passes and experience add-ons are available.

Plan Your Trip

  • There is Free parking outside the aquarium and all around Hillarys Boar Harbour.
  • Grab a range of refreshments and light meals at the on-site café. Both inside and outside seating are available.
  • The aquarium can get very busy, especially on rainy days or in the intense summer heat. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
  • Baby changing and optional buggy parking is available. Take a wearable carrier to help your baby see the high-up exhibits for an easy life.
  • Wheelchair ramps are present at the entrance (although pretty long and steep) and there is lift access to the underwater tunnel.
  • Check the schedule for feeding sessions, talks, and interactive experiences to ensure you don’t miss out on any highlights.
an alligator exhibit at Perth Aquarium. the alligator is showing its teeth and sitting on a rock
Spot the saltwater crocodile amongst the rocks in the Far North area

How to Make the Most of Perth Aquarium with Kids

A couple of spots are easy to miss if you’re trying to wrangle the kids, but they’re well worth looking out for. I missed both of these areas on my first visit so it’s easily done!

First, the interactive play area next to the cafe. Head to the outside seating to the right as you’re looking at the cafe (at the front of the building).

The play area is tucked away but you’ll be glad you found it as it houses a large sandpit and an interactive drawing display

Second is the outdoor play area. Keep going past the outdoor underwater reef viewing area to the end where the harbour is. Head down the stairs to a wooden boat play area; small but fun!

four girls in a replica basket of a hot air balloon, one of the interactive exhibits in Scitech Perth, one of the top indoor activities for kids in Perth Western Australia

Searching for rainy day or school holiday fun?

See the full guide: Indoor Activities for Kids in Perth!

the outside play area at Perth Aquarium showing the wooden play ship
Head past the outdoor reef exhibit to find the tucked-away play area

Optional Extras (Experiences)

If you’re feeling like adding a little extra to your day there’s a ton of add-ons to choose from.

My favourite is the glass bottom boat because it’s budget-friendly and my kid loved it!

These are plenty for adults and kids though so check out the list below for a few of the options available (full list here).

the outside of the building of the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA)

Perth Aquarium is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone fascinated by the wonders of the underwater world. 

From interactive encounters to behind-the-scenes tours, there is something for everyone at AQWA. So, plan your visit today and embark on a remarkable journey through the enchanting realms of Western Australia’s aquatic treasures.

aqwa.com.au

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