In the heart of Western Australia’s Shark Bay the Ocean Park Aquarium is the ultimate window into the marine life of this World Heritage area. Only 30 minutes from Monkey Mia this award winning, eco-friendly aquarium takes you on an underwater journey into the secret lives of marine animals from venomous sea snakes to majestic sharks and rays. If you’re staying at the RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort make sure to add this to your itinerary for a day of adventure and discovery.
Ocean Park Aquarium and Monkey Mia: A Day Out
A day trip that includes both Monkey Mia and Ocean Park Aquarium is the perfect way to see the best of Shark Bay. Start your day with the famous Dolphin Feeding at Monkey Mia Reserve where you can see the friendly Bottlenose dolphins swim right up to the shore in the crystal clear, shallow waters. This dolphin experience is world famous and visitors are often lucky enough to see these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. After the morning with the dolphins head to Ocean Park Aquarium to continue your underwater journey. The proximity of these two attractions makes it easy to do both in one day and together they give you a complete view of the marine life that calls Shark Bay home.
If you’re staying at the RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort the aquarium is just down Ocean Park Road so it’s an easy and educational addition to your day. The combination of these two attractions gives you a mix of outdoor adventure and indoor learning all in the stunning Shark Bay World Heritage Area. Whether you’re with family, friends or solo this dynamic duo will give you a day of wonder.
A Marine Wonderland: What to Expect
Ocean Park Aquarium is not your average aquarium – it’s a marine paradise that brings Shark Bay to life. As you walk in you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and marine biologists who are passionate about the ocean. The aquarium is designed to mimic the natural habitats found in Australian waters, with coral reefs, seagrass meadows and open ocean displays.
Among the many marine species on show are venomous sea snakes, stingrays, turtles and a rainbow of tropical fish. The aquarium also has larger marine predators like sharks which you can see up close in specially designed tanks. As you walk through the exhibits you’ll learn about the life cycles of different marine animals and gain a deeper understanding of the relationships within aquatic ecosystems.
If you’re interested in coral reefs, the live coral displays at Ocean Park Aquarium are a must see. These vibrant and fragile ecosystems are recreated in amazing detail so you can see the beauty of coral up close without having to get in the water. The coral tanks are teeming with life and the aquarium’s commitment to sustainability and conservation is evident in the care and attention given to these displays.
Shark Feeding Sessions
One of the highlights of the Ocean Park Aquarium experience is the daily Shark Feeding. Led by professional Aquarium Tour Guides, visitors can watch the feeding of these apex predators in their specially designed tanks. As part of the interactive experience, you’ll learn from marine biologists about the importance of sharks to our oceans and how they feed. It’s not just an amusement park experience, it’s a message of sustainability and animal rehabilitation to inspire care for marine ecosystems.
Live Coral Displays
Ocean Park Aquarium also has live coral displays that replicate the coral reefs found along the Australian coast. These coral exhibits show the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems and how important these environments are to many marine animals. A must see for those interested in the marine park’s biodiversity, to see what’s beneath the surface of Australian waters.
Educational and Eco-Conscious
The Ocean Park Aquarium is not just about marine life but about eco-tourism. The aquarium’s marine scientists and biologists are passionate about educating visitors about conservation, from marine mammals to coral systems. The aquarium is involved in animal rehabilitation programs and follows animal welfare guidelines to ensure the welfare of its inhabitants. Visitors can join in interactive experiences to connect with the ocean and learn lessons that can inspire young and old to get involved in conservation.
Interactive Experiences for Families
We have heaps of cool experiences for families, especially for kids. Kids can participate in touch pool sessions where they can get up close and personal with marine animals or go on a guided aquarium tour where learning is fun. The aquarium is a family friendly space with hands on experiences that will create memories for all ages. Add the aquarium dome to water skiing or a boat tour of Steep Point and you’ve got a full day of connected adventures.
Best Time to Visit Ocean Park Aquarium
The aquarium is open all year but the best time to visit is during the cooler months of April to October when the weather is pleasant and the bird life is at its best. During these months the aquarium tours and shark feeding sessions are combined with more outdoor adventures in Shark Bay and Monkey Mia. If you’re staying at Monkey Mia Reserve the visitor centre has information on planning your day trips including the best times to see the Dolphin Feeding or go on a Marine Safari. Whether you want interactive experiences or to explore the nearby National Park, there’s plenty to do for lucky visitors who make the trip.
Conclusion
Visiting Ocean Park Aquarium in Monkey Mia is not just an aquarium it’s an experience into the wonders of Australian waters and the marine park. With educational tours, shark feeding and interactive experiences for the whole family it’s a day of adventure and learning. Whether you are mesmerised by the coral reefs, fascinated by the Bottlenose dolphins or want to learn about the amazing work of marine scientists this award winning eco friendly aquarium is a must see on any Western Australia trip.
FAQ
What animals are at the Ocean Park Aquarium in Monkey Mia?
You can see sharks, rays, venomous sea snakes and Bottlenose dolphins. Live coral and marine conservation exhibits.
When are the shark feeding sessions at Ocean Park Aquarium?
Shark feeding is daily in the morning. Check with the visitor centre or the aquarium’s schedule during your visit.
Is Ocean Park Aquarium suitable for families?
Yes! Interactive experiences include touch pools, guided tours and hands on learning activities so great for families with kids of all ages.
How far is Ocean Park Aquarium from Monkey Mia?
Only 30 minutes from Monkey Mia Reserve so perfect to add to your day after the Dolphin Feeding at Monkey Mia.
What is the entry fee?
Check website or contact us. Terms and conditions apply.
