1. South West
  2. Dorset
  3. Bournemouth

About Oceanarium

Home to 200 different species of animals, the Oceanarium takes you on a voyage into the depths of the watery world. Watch otters frolic at Otter Oasis, get up close to the cute colony of Humboldt penguins, spot colourful clownfish in the Observation Station, pay a visit to the jawsome crocodile at Crocodile Rocks and look out for the friendly Loggerhead turtle, as she swims above your head, alongside stunning reef sharks.

Watch the waters come alive in the scheduled feeding presentations and talks, where you can find out more about conservation and the conservation programmes supported by the Oceanarium. Learn how you can help threatened and endangered species, alongside fun facts about the animals.

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Get up close to 200 different species of animals!

See 200 different species of animals as you take a voyage around the waters of the world, whilst learning about conservation and why many of our creatures are threatened in the wild. Watch otters frolic at Otter Oasis, see our cute colony of Humboldt penguins, spot the jawsome crocodile at Crocodile Rocks and look out for the friendly Loggerhead turtle.

Tickets are valid all day, so be sure not to miss our scheduled feeding presentations and talks, which will tell you more about your favourite aquatic animals and lots of conservation facts to learn about. The Offshore Café is open every day for food and drink, and don’t forget to treat yourself to a souvenir from The Cove gift shop on your way home!

Enjoy a fin-tastic visit to this all-weather attraction!

See a variety of creatures above & below the waves!

The Oceanarium is home to a diverse number of species from around the world. From your aquatic favourites such as clownfish and sharks, to land animals including Humbboldt penguins, and reptiles such as the Green Iguana, and tortoises. Explore 12 themed zones, and take a voyage around the world, covering both freshwater and saltwater habitats. There's so many species to see.

Watch the waters come alive!

The Oceanarium is the perfect magical attraction for the little ones, where they can be in awe, up close and personal with so many amazing and colourful creatures. Its a great sensory enviroment for babies and toddlers and children under 3yrs go free. The daily feeding times, are popular among families, where children can watch some of their much loved animals being fed by the keepers and aquarists. They can also learn fun facts about them with the accompanying talks.

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Facilities

  • Toilets iconToilets
  • Gift Shop iconGift Shop
  • Accessible Toilets iconAccessible Toilets
  • Baby Changing iconBaby Changing
  • Food Available iconFood Available
  • Wheelchair Friendly iconWheelchair Friendly
  • Pushchair Friendly iconPushchair Friendly
  • Card Payments Accepted iconCard Payments Accepted
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Opening Times

Regular Times
  • Monday, 10:00 - 17:00
  • Tuesday, 10:00 - 17:00
  • Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
  • Thursday, 00:00 - 17:00
  • Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
  • Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
  • Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00

From Beginning of February half term to end of October half term are opening hours are Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 18:00 (Last entry 17:00)

Times vary in the winter.

For exact closing times, please check the attraction's official website before visiting.

Closed on Christmas Day

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Pricing & Tickets

General Admission

    For the cheapest rate, pre-book online in advance and SAVE!

    Gate General Admission Prices
    Adults (16+) £16.99 
    Kids (3-15) £11.99 
    Seniors (60+): £14.99 
    Family tickets from £35.99
    Students (must present student ID): £14.99 
    Carers: FREE (must present proof of carer on arrival)
    Family of 3 (2 adults & 1 kid): £35.99 
    Family of 4 (2 adults & 2 kids): £39.99 
    Family of 5 (2 adults & 3 kids): £43.99

    All children under the age of 16yrs must be accompanied by an adult and will be refused entry otherwise.

    Book in advance for cheapest tickets

    Find other attractions similar to Oceanarium by visiting our attraction tickets section.

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    Plan Your Visit

    Stopwatch IconTypical visit time 2 - 3 hours

    Tick IconSuitable for Kids and Adults too

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    FAQs

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    Parking

    Toilets Icon

    Toilets

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    Family Friendly Options

    Food & Drink

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    Accessibility Information

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    Tickets & Bookings

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    Private Hire & Birthday Parties

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    Contact Details

    Oceanarium
    Pier Approach
    West Beach
    Bournemouth
    Dorset
    BH2 5AA
    England

    The Oceanarium is only a 25 minute walk from the train station. If driving, please follow the brown signs to pier and beaches. The closest car parks can be found at the BIC (Bournemouth International Centre), Bath Road South Car Park, BH2 Centre, and Pavilion Theatre.

    Tel: 01202311993

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    Transport Information

    Many of the buses stop in Bournemouth Square - in the centre of Bournemouth Town Centre - a short walk away from the Oceanarium. These include, but are not limited to, the m1, m2, 13, 50, 70, X1, X2, X3, and X6.

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    Verification & Last Updated

    Verified Status:Verified

    This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.

    Last Updated: 14:00 23/11/2025

    Oceanarium Reviews

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