Description
Situated on Bournemouth’s golden mile seafront, right next to Bournemouth Pier and just a five-minute stroll from the town centre, the Oceanarium is a vibrant tropical aquarium that has welcomed visitors since it opened in 1998. It features eleven immersive themed zones—from Amazonian piranha tanks and Crocodile Rocks to the Shark Wreck Reef walk-through tunnel and Penguin Beach Encounter. The Oceanarium is home to hundreds of creatures including sharks, stingrays, clownfish, jellyfish, African dwarf crocodiles, a loggerhead turtle named Carrie, and a lively colony of Humboldt penguins.
Visitors must purchase a timed-entry all-day ticket to access the aquarium (under-3s go free). Tickets are generally more affordable when booked online in advance, with adult prices around £14–15, children's tickets around £9–10, and family bundles also available. Tickets are valid for re-entry throughout the day, and open-date options are available for added flexibility. It’s worth noting that the attraction can get busy during weekends and school holidays, so pre-booking is recommended. As Penguin Beach is located outdoors, weather-appropriate clothing is advisable on rainy days.
Throughout the day, the Oceanarium hosts engaging feeding talks and animal presentations led by keepers, which offer fun and educational experiences for all ages. For a more interactive visit, guests can pre-book special animal encounters such as penguin feeding, shark or ray feeding, or even take part in experiences like “Aquarist for a Day.” These unique offerings provide a closer look behind the scenes and are popular with both families and wildlife enthusiasts. The Oceanarium also features a café and a gift shop, making it a well-rounded stop on any Bournemouth itinerary.