Planning a visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium? You’re in for an unforgettable experience! Located at the V&A Waterfront, this aquarium showcases marine life from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
With over 3,000 living sea animals, it’s one of Cape Town’s most popular attractions. From sharks and rays to playful penguins and living kelp forests, the aquarium offers something for every visitor. If you’re a first-time guest, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Two Oceans Aquarium Visitor Highlights
| Main Exhibit / Feature | Top Activity | Why You Should Visit | Most Important Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Exhibit | Watch sharks up close | Experience thrilling views of ragged-tooth sharks and other predators | Best viewed during shark feeding times |
| I&J Ocean Exhibit | Observe rays and sea turtles | One of the largest exhibits, showcasing calm marine life in an expansive setting | Feeding times offer unique interactions |
| Penguin Exhibit | See African and rockhopper penguins | Fun, family-friendly, and great for penguin feeding times | Ideal for families with young children |
| Kelp Forest Exhibit | Marvel at a rare living kelp forest | Experience the natural movement of kelp with native fish species | Best viewed during feeding times |
| Touch Pools and Microscope Exhibit | Hands-on exploration for kids | Perfect for kids to learn about marine life through touch and observation | Educational and interactive for younger visitors |
| Behind-the-Scenes Tour | Take an exclusive tour | Gain insight into animal care, tank maintenance, and conservation efforts | Available with advanced booking |
| Jelly Gallery | Admire peaceful jellyfish displays | A tranquil experience viewing glowing jellyfish | Enjoyed best in a relaxed, quiet moment |
- Two Oceans Aquarium Visitor Highlights
- How to Get To Two Oceans Aquarium: Best Transport Options for Tourists
- Tickets and Opening Hours: Plan Your Visit Wisely
- Top Exhibits at Two Oceans Aquarium
- Top Exhibits: Unmissable Highlights
- Interactive and Educational Programs: Fun for All Ages
- Special Events and Seasonal Highlights
- Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Conservation and Sustainability: How the Aquarium Helps the Environment
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Visiting Two Oceans Aquarium
How to Get To Two Oceans Aquarium: Best Transport Options for Tourists
Knowing how to get to the aquarium using Cape Town Transport will ensure a smooth start to your visit.
Here are the aquarium’s address and contact details:
+27 (0)21 418 3823
Two Oceans Aquarium
Dock Road, V&A Waterfront
Cape Town, South Africa
335427.36S 18253.73E
Directions from Popular Tourist Areas
- From the V&A Waterfront: A 5-minute walk from most hotels and shops at the Waterfront.
- From Cape Town City Centre: It’s about a 10-minute drive via Buitengracht Street.
Public Transport and Ride-Sharing
- MyCiTi Bus: The Waterfront stop is convenient, but check schedules for route updates.
- Uber and Bolt: Widely used in Cape Town, affordable, and easy to book rides.
- Parking Availability: Ample parking is available at the V&A Waterfront, but early arrival is recommended, especially on weekends.
Tickets and Opening Hours: Plan Your Visit Wisely
Make the most of your time by purchasing the right tickets and visiting during less crowded times.
Different Ticket Options to Suit Every Visitor
- Single Entry Tickets: Available for adults, children, students, and pensioners.
- Annual Membership: Great for frequent visitors, offering unlimited access.
- Family Packages and Online Deals: Discounted family rates and seasonal deals can be found online, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Single Entry Ticket Costs
- Day Ticket – Adult: R250.00
- Day Ticket – Child (14-17 years): R185.00
- Day Ticket – Child (4-13 years): R115.00 (Must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder.)
- Day Ticket – Child (under 4 years): Free (Must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder.)
- Day Ticket – South African Pensioner (65+): R185.00 (Please bring ID for verification.)
- Day Ticket – South African Student: R185.00 (Valid South African student card required.)
Opening Hours: Timing Is Key
The aquarium is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Arriving early, around 9:30 to 10:00 AM, helps avoid large crowds. It’s a good idea to check for holiday hour changes before your visit.
Top Exhibits at Two Oceans Aquarium
The aquarium is packed with exciting displays, but these are the highlights you simply can’t miss.
Top Exhibits: Unmissable Highlights
| Exhibit | Standout Feature |
|---|---|
| Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Exhibit | Features ragged-tooth sharks and other predators in a tank with a large viewing window and spiral ramp for immersive views. |
| I&J Ocean Exhibit | A 1.6 million-liter tank showcasing rays, sea turtles, and schools of fish, offering a serene underwater setting. |
| Penguin Exhibit | Home to African and northern rockhopper penguins, with daily feedings and conservation education, ideal for families. |
| Kelp Forest Exhibit | A living kelp forest, one of the few in the world, featuring swaying kelp for an otherworldly underwater experience. |
| Jelly Gallery | A dimly lit space where glowing jellyfish drift in peaceful tanks, creating a calming and mesmerizing atmosphere. |
Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Exhibit
Watch ragged-tooth sharks and other predators glide through the water. This exhibit features a large viewing window and a spiral viewing ramp, giving visitors immersive views of these incredible creatures.
I&J Ocean Exhibit
One of the aquarium’s largest exhibits, the I&J Ocean tank holds over 1.6 million liters of water, showcasing rays, sea turtles, and schools of fish in a serene setting.
Penguin Exhibit: A Must for Families
Home to both African and rescued northern rockhopper penguins, this exhibit lets you see these adorable birds up close. Time your visit to catch their daily feeding and learn about conservation efforts to protect these species.
Kelp Forest Exhibit
A unique and awe-inspiring display, this living kelp forest is one of the few in aquariums worldwide. The towering kelp sways with the current, creating an otherworldly underwater scene.
Jelly Gallery
Step into a mesmerizing world where glowing jellyfish drift peacefully in dimly lit tanks, offering a tranquil escape from the busier parts of the aquarium.
Interactive and Educational Programs: Fun for All Ages
The Two Oceans Aquarium offers plenty of interactive activities for visitors of all ages, making it one of the top child-friendly tourist attractions in Cape Town.
Daily Feeding Shows
There are four feeding shows you must visit:
- African Penguin Feeding: Daily at 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM.
- I&J Ocean Exhibit Feeding: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 12:00 PM.
- Kelp Forest Exhibit Feeding: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 12:00 PM.
- Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Exhibit Feeding: Saturdays at 12:00 PM.
Diving with the Creatures
Certified divers can take the plunge and swim with rays, turtles, and even sharks in the aquarium’s diving experiences. The aquarium’s Dive School offers PADI-certified courses, but booking in advance is essential, as space fills up quickly.
Touch Pools and Interactive Learning for Kids
Children will enjoy the Microscope Exhibit, where they can explore marine life up close and learn about ocean conservation along the way.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
These tours give a deeper understanding of how the aquarium operates, including animal care, tank maintenance, and conservation efforts. Group sizes for these tours are kept small to ensure an intimate experience. You’ll gain access to areas normally off-limits to regular visitors.
Special Events and Seasonal Highlights
The Two Oceans Aquarium frequently hosts special events and seasonal activities, offering unique experiences that change throughout the year. From themed events like shark weeks to conservation awareness days, these programs provide deeper insights into marine life and often feature interactive sessions or guest speakers.
Checking the Two Oceans Aquarium event calendar before your visit is recommended to ensure you don’t miss any special happenings.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
Here’s how to ensure your visit goes off without a hitch.
Best Time to Visit
- Avoiding Crowds: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays, so plan to visit early.
- Plan Around Feeding Times: Check the schedule to catch shark, penguin, and turtle feedings, which are often the most engaging experiences.
Accessibility and Comfort
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The aquarium is fully accessible with ramps and elevators throughout.
- Family-Friendly Facilities: Baby-changing stations are available, and strollers can easily navigate the exhibits.
Dining and Souvenirs
- On-site Dining: The aquarium café offers snacks and light meals, or you can explore the V&A Waterfront for more dining options.
- Gift Shop: Marine-themed souvenirs are available, including educational toys, books, and plush animals.
Planning a trip to Cape Town with the kids? Our Visiting Cape Town with Kids travel guide has everything you need! From kid-friendly accommodations and dining options to custom 3-day itineraries and activities organized by age, this guide ensures a fun and stress-free family adventure.
Conservation and Sustainability: How the Aquarium Helps the Environment
The Two Oceans Aquarium is not just a tourist attraction; it plays an active role in conservation and sustainability.
Marine Conservation Programs
The aquarium is deeply involved in rescue and rehabilitation efforts, especially for sea turtles, which are often found stranded along the coast. These turtles are nursed back to health before being released into the wild. Educational outreach programs, including school tours and conservation awareness campaigns, are also a large part of the aquarium’s mission.
Sustainability Efforts
- Reducing Plastic Waste: The aquarium has eliminated single-use plastics and encourages visitors to participate by using refillable water bottles and recycling.
- Energy-Efficient Practices: The aquarium uses energy-efficient systems to reduce its environmental footprint, including advanced water filtration and LED lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Visiting Two Oceans Aquarium
What is the best time of day to visit the aquarium?
Visiting right after opening, around 9:30 AM, offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
Are there discounts available for families or groups?
Yes, family packages and group discounts are available, especially when booked online in advance.
Is the aquarium accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Can I book a diving experience on the day of my visit?
It’s recommended to book diving experiences in advance, as spaces are limited and may fill up quickly.
Are there places to eat inside the Two Oceans aquarium?
Yes, there is a café offering light meals, and there are additional dining options nearby at the V&A Waterfront.
