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Zoo & Aquarium

The Aquarium of Western Australia

📍 Hillarys Boat Harbour, 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys WA 6025, Australia
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4.5/ 5.0
★★★★★

Introduction

The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) at Hillarys Boat Harbour, about 25 km north of Perth, is the largest aquarium in Western Australia. Themed zones re-create the range of marine ecosystems from Western Australia's northern coast to its southern seas, with highlights including a coral-reef underwater tunnel and a deep-ocean exhibit viewed from a glass-bottom boat (one of the largest single marine-tank experiences in the country). Resident wildlife includes sharks, turtles and seahorses. AQWA is open every day of the year except Christmas Day and is a firm favourite with families.

Highlights

1
One of Australia's largest marine tanks
A range of tanks from coral reefs to a deep-ocean habitat, some with underwater tunnels.
2
Glass-bottom boat ride
Glide over a huge tank in a glass-bottom boat to see sharks and other large marine life.
3
Native marine wildlife
See Western Australian coastal species including turtles, seahorses and sharks.
4
Themed marine-ecosystem zones
Zones reflect WA's distinct marine regions with strong education and interactivity.
5
Harbourside setting
Set at Hillarys Boat Harbour, easy to pair with marina shops and dining.

🛈 Practical Info

Best time to visitSeasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere; check local weather and events. For outdoor sites, mornings or late afternoons are often more pleasant.
TransportAustralia is vast; most attractions suit self-driving or local day tours. For city sites, check public transport timetables in advance.
Climate & dressUV is strong; bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, stay hydrated, and beware of insects. Inland areas may have large diurnal temperature swings.
On siteFollow on-site signs, do not feed or disturb wildlife, protect nature and heritage, and stay on designated trails in national parks.
AccessibilitySome natural attractions have uneven paths or steps and may challenge those with limited mobility; check accessibility services in advance.

💡 Tips

Tickets, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: Open 7 days a year-round except Christmas Day (25 Dec); generally 9:00-16:00 Mar-Nov, 9:00-17:00 Dec-Jan, and 16:00 weekdays/17:00 weekends in February, with last admission about an hour before close. Confirm on the official site.; admission: Standard adult entry about A$37; children (3-15), family passes and experiences such as the glass-bottom boat are priced separately. Please confirm at the official venue..
Australia has strong sun; protect yourself with sunscreen, hydration and insect repellent, especially outdoors.
Respect local culture, wildlife and natural park rules; never feed animals or leave designated trails.
Plan alongside nearby sights, using self-driving or local day tours to link your route.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting The Aquarium of Western Australia?

Tickets, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: Open 7 days a year-round except Christmas Day (25 Dec); generally 9:00-16:00 Mar-Nov, 9:00-17:00 Dec-Jan, and 16:00 weekdays/17:00 weekends in February, with last admission about an hour before close. Confirm on the official site.; admission: Standard adult entry about A$37; children (3-15), family passes and experiences such as the glass-bottom boat are priced separately. Please confirm at the official venue.. Australia has strong sun; protect yourself with sunscreen, hydration and insect repellent, especially outdoors.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.