Cairns Aquarium- Queensland, Australia
During my time in Cairns, I decided to visit the Cairns Aquarium, but instead of choosing the regular daytime admission, I opted for their Twilight Tour, which also comes with the option of a three-course dinner at their aquatic-themed restaurant. I chose to do just the tour since I already had dinner plans elsewhere. What really attracted me to this particular experience was the chance to explore the aquarium after hours, when the crowds are gone and some of the marine life becomes more active.
I arrived about ten minutes before the meeting time and was advised to wait before checking in, so I wandered to the café around the corner and picked up a drink. After checking in, the staff divided us into two smaller groups, each with a dedicated guide. I appreciated this immediately—smaller groups meant space to linger at displays, ask questions, and actually hear the guide’s explanations without distraction.
As we walked through the empty aquarium, the atmosphere felt calm and intimate. Without the usual daytime crowds, I could take my time observing the animals, snapping photos, and absorbing the details. Our guide shared fascinating information along the way—everything from nocturnal behaviours to how different species interact within their ecosystems. It was interesting to learn that several animals in the aquarium are far more active at night, which made the after-hours experience feel special.
At the touch tank, we were shown shark eggs, including some empty ones we could pick up to feel the textures. I was also able to gently touch the sea stars, which were firmer than I expected. Throughout the tour, we encountered displays like the life-size leatherback turtle model and a massive crocodile replica. Standing beside them really put into perspective the sheer scale of these creatures and made me appreciate their presence in the wild even more.
The entire experience felt immersive and educational, with plenty of time for Q&A. I left feeling that I had learned a lot—not just about the animals, but also about conservation efforts and the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. I would highly recommend the Twilight Tour over general admission if you’re visiting Cairns; it offers a quieter, more engaging, and more memorable way to explore the aquarium.
Background
The Cairns Aquarium, opened in 2017, was designed to showcase the unique biodiversity of the Wet Tropics and the Great Barrier Reef—two of the world’s most complex and fragile ecosystems. As the only aquarium in the world dedicated exclusively to the habitats of tropical North Queensland, it highlights over 16,000 animals across freshwater, rainforest, reef, and deep-sea environments.
Beyond being a popular visitor attraction, the aquarium plays an important role in marine research, conservation, and rehabilitation. It partners with scientific institutions to study local species, support captive-breeding programs, and advance understanding of vulnerable ecosystems. Educational experiences like the Twilight Tour help raise awareness about environmental challenges facing the region, from habitat loss to climate change.
Getting There
The Cairns Aquarium is conveniently located in central Cairns, just a short walk from the Esplanade and many major hotels. If you’re staying in the downtown area, it’s easily accessible on foot, and public transportation or rideshares are available for those staying farther out. The Twilight Tour begins after the aquarium closes to the public, so arriving a few minutes early ensures a relaxed check-in and time to grab a drink or browse the nearby shops before the tour begins.
Route Overview
Duration: 2 hr (Tour duration, longer if you went with the themed dinner)
Booking Info: The Twilight Tour can be reserved through the Cairns Aquarium’s official website. They offer a variety of special experiences—including behind-the-scenes tours and marine encounters—so it’s worth browsing the options to find the one that best suits your interests. I booked the evening tour specifically for the quieter, more interactive environment, and it was absolutely worth it.
Cost Breakdown
Entrance Fee: Cairns Aquarium Twilight Tour — AU$83.31
Food: AU$4.82
