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    SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

    4.3·22531 reviews·Google

    Description

    SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium sits right on Darling Harbour and is home to more than 4,000 animals across 300+ species — sharks, dugongs, penguins, sea turtles, and tropical reef fish. It's one of Sydney's most iconic family attractions and a guaranteed rainy-day winner, with walk-through underwater tunnels, a penguin raft ride, and hands-on rockpools that keep kids of every age genuinely hooked.

    Why We Love It

    • Walk-through shark tunnels at Shark Valley put kids nose-to-snout with some of the world's biggest aquarium sharks as they glide overhead — genuinely jaw-dropping, even for toddlers who usually just point at the fish.

    • Penguin Expedition boat ride glides past a colony of King and Gentoo penguins in a recreated sub-Antarctic habitat — a one-of-a-kind experience you won't find at any other Sydney attraction.

    • Meet Pig the dugong at Dugong Island, one of only a handful of dugongs in human care anywhere in the world, and hear his incredible rescue story.

    • Discovery Rockpools hands-on touch tank lets little hands gently meet sea stars, shark eggs, and corals — the highlight for most preschoolers.

    • Exceptional sensory support with a dedicated Sensory Room, free Escape the Noise ear defender kits, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard support, and Companion Card entry for carers.

    • Fully pram- and wheelchair-accessible throughout with free wheelchair hire from guest services and accessible restrooms near the entrance, penguins, and exit.

    • Entirely undercover and right on Darling Harbour — a reliable rainy-day option, with the harbour playground and waterfront cafes right outside for post-visit running around.

    Good To Know

    Cafe/ Dining Onsite
    Seating available
    Parking available
    Close to public transport
    Toilets
    Birthday Party Packages Available

    Tips

    • Book online in advance: Save up to 30% by booking online at least one day ahead. Walk-up adult tickets are $57 versus $39 booked in advance on weekdays.

    • Go midweek or after 2pm: The aquarium gets very crowded on weekends and in school holidays — weekday term time or after 2pm is much quieter and better for sensory-sensitive kids.

    • Combo passes save big: The 2-Attraction Combo Pass (from $65 adult, $27 child) bundles SEA LIFE with WILD LIFE Zoo, Madame Tussauds, or Sydney Tower Eye at 50% off the second attraction.

    • Annual pass pays off fast: A Merlin Annual Pass ($119 new / $99 renewal) gives unlimited entry to 8 attractions across Australia and NZ for 12 months — worthwhile after just 2 visits.

    • Free sensory support: Ask for an Escape the Noise kit at admissions — free ear defenders provided by St Vincent de Paul. The Sensory Room (8-person, 20-min limit) is also available for quiet breaks.

    • Companion Card accepted: Carers accompanying Companion Card holders get free entry. Assistance animals are welcome throughout.

    • Cashless venue: Bring card or phone payment — no cash accepted anywhere on site.

    • BYO food welcome: You can bring your own food and drinks. On-site options include the Wharf Kitchen near the exit and the Dugong Shack snack stop midway through.

    • Check Penguin ride restrictions: The Penguin Expedition boat ride has height and age restrictions — check before queuing if you're visiting with very young kids.

    Parking Options

    Wilson Parking (Darling Harbour)
    from $12/day
    Discounted parking at multiple Wilson Parking garages around Darling Harbour for SEA LIFE visitors — use code MERLIN at entry for the discounted rate from $12/day.
    Metered Street Parking
    METERED
    Limited metered street parking in surrounding CBD streets. Expensive and time-limited — not recommended for long visits.

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    Price (Per Person)

    Free (under 2) - $57

    Opening Hours

    Monday
    10am - 5pm
    Tuesday
    10am - 5pm
    Wednesday
    10am - 5pm
    Thursday
    10am - 5pm
    Friday
    10am - 5pm
    Saturday
    9:30am - 5pm
    Sunday
    9:30am - 5pm

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