Imagine sharks gliding over your head, otters showing off their tricks, penguins waddling in line, and a real-life mermaid dancing underwater, all hiding beneath a shopping mall. That is Aquaria Phuket, and it is one of the most fun surprises on the island.
Sitting on the basement floor of the Central Phuket Floresta mall in Phuket Town, Aquaria opened in 2019 and quickly became the largest aquarium in Thailand. It is home to more than 25,000 animals across nine themed zones, and it is cool, comfy, and packed with wonder.
To help you make the most of your trip, this guide covers the zones, the shows, the tickets, how to get there, and a few handy tips along the way.
So let’s get into it, shall we?
Aquaria Phuket at a Glance
Before you plan your visit, it helps to know what you are walking into.
Aquaria Phuket is a huge modern aquarium built right into the B1 level of Central Phuket Floresta, so you can explore it rain or shine.
To give you a sense of scale, it holds over 25,000 marine and land animals across roughly 300 species, all spread across nine themed zones.
Its biggest showstopper is the South China Sea tank, filled with 3.5 million litres of seawater, which makes it the largest saltwater tank in the country.
Best of all, the whole place is fully air-conditioned, which makes it a brilliant choice on a hot afternoon or a rainy day. That comfort, plus all the animals and shows, makes it a hit with families, couples, and photographers alike.
The Nine Themed Zones of Aquaria
Now that you know the scale, here is the fun part: Aquaria is built as one big journey that flows from jungle rivers all the way to the open ocean. Each zone has its own look, its own stars, and its own little surprises, so it never feels repetitive.
You begin in the Mystic Forest, a moody jungle-river world where huge freshwater fish drift through tanks dressed up like a tropical rainforest. It is a gentle, atmospheric start that eases you in before the bigger stuff. From there, you climb up to the Canopy Walkway, where you look down on the fish swimming below, almost like you are peering through the branches from high up in the treetops.
Next, things get a little wilder in the Gem of the Jungle, home to reptiles and other creepy-crawly surprises tucked into cozy, cave-like displays. Keep your eyes peeled here, because some of the residents blend right into their surroundings.
Just beyond it, the Stream Cave is a cool, misty cave built around flowing water, where playful small-clawed otters steal the show and often turn feeding time into a full comedy act.
As the rivers give way to the sea, you reach the Coastal Haven, where cute Humboldt penguins waddle and dive while sharks cruise in the tanks nearby. It is a favourite photo stop, especially when the penguins line up for their feed.
Right next door, Stingray Bay lets you watch graceful rays glide over colourful corals, and if you like, you can lean in and help feed them yourself for a hands-on thrill.
The adventure then turns mysterious at the Submarine Lagarto, a recreation of a real United States World War Two submarine that was lost and only found on the seabed of the Gulf of Thailand decades later. Today, it's "wreck" shelters reef fish and rays, giving the whole zone an eerie, sunken-ship feel.
From there, you step into the star of the show, the South China Sea zone, home to the giant main tank and the famous 40-metre underwater tunnel where sharks and rays float right over your head. This is also the stage for the biggest daily feedings and the Mermaid Show, and you can admire the massive tank from several different angles.
To wrap things up, the Underwater Research Station ends your visit on a calm, dreamy note. Glowing jellyfish drift in softly lit tanks, and easy-to-read exhibits teach you about ocean life without ever feeling like a lesson.
Must-See Shows and Feeding Sessions
Walking the zones is only half the fun, because the daily shows are what really bring Aquaria to life. The biggest crowd-pleaser is the Mermaid Show, where free-diving performers in shimmering silicone fins dance inside the main tank, usually around 11 am and again around 3 pm.
Beyond the mermaids, there is plenty more action throughout the day. You can watch divers hand-feed the sharks and rays in the huge South China Sea tank, cheer on the penguins at feeding time, and giggle at the otters as they splash and play.
Since showtimes can shift from day to day, it is smart to grab the daily schedule as soon as you arrive. That way, you can plan your route and make sure you catch every feeding without any rushing.
Interactive and Premium Experiences at Aquaria Phuket
If you want to go beyond just looking, Aquaria has plenty of hands-on treats that turn a simple visit into something you actually take part in. These little extras are what many families remember most, and they are easy to slot into your day.
The touch pools are a lovely place to start, letting you gently meet starfish, small rays, and other calm sea creatures under the watchful eye of the friendly staff. Kids absolutely love the thrill of feeling a real sea creature for the first time, and the ray feeding takes it up a notch, as you get to hand a snack to these graceful gliders and watch them swirl in for a bite. It is a simple moment, but it always sparks big smiles.
For the truly adventurous, there is the Dive with Sharks experience, which puts you right in the water alongside them for a proper rush of adrenaline. It is guided and safe, but spots are limited, and it needs a bit of planning, so this one is best booked ahead of time rather than left to chance on the day.
On top of all that, there are two brilliant add-ons if you fancy stretching your visit a little further. You can wander into the AR Trickeye 4D Museum, where clever illusion art lets you surf giant waves, dodge surprises, and snap silly, camera-ready photos that look like you have stepped inside the picture. Or, if you would rather sit back and soak it all in, you can treat yourself to a meal beside a giant viewing tank at the underwater dining spot, where fish drift past your table while you eat.
Aquaria Tickets and Passes
With so much on offer, it helps to know your ticket choices before you go. You can pick a simple aquarium-only ticket or grab a combo that adds Siam Niramit, Carnival Magic, Andamanda Phuket, or other major attractions for extra variety and value.
A few details are worth keeping in mind. Ticket options differ for residents and non-residents, and children are usually priced by their height rather than their age. Entry is also date-specific and single-entry, so once you leave, you cannot pop back in, which means it is best to enjoy it all in one relaxed visit.
When it comes to buying, the easiest way to sort your Aquaria Phuket tickets is to book online before you arrive. Thrillark lets you lock in your date and skip the ticket-counter queue, which is a real time-saver on busy weekends and school holidays.
Planning Your Visit
Once your tickets are sorted, a little planning makes the day run smoothly. Aquaria is open daily from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm, so give yourself enough time before the doors close.
As for how long to stay, most people spend around 1.5 to 2 hours, which is just right for wandering the zones and catching a couple of shows. If you want it quieter, weekday mornings or early afternoons tend to be the calmest.
A few final tips will keep everyone happy. Bring a light jacket, since it is chilly inside, and note that outside food and drink are not allowed, though there is a café within and plenty of restaurants in the mall. Happily, the whole venue is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, with ramps and lifts throughout.
Getting There and What Is Nearby
Reaching Aquaria is refreshingly easy, since it sits right inside the Central Phuket Floresta mall in Wichit.
Distances:
- From Phuket Town: about 20 to 30 minutes away
- From Patong: roughly a 20-minute drive
Ways to get there:
- Grab or taxi
- Local minibus
- Airport bus
- Driving, with parking available at the mall
What is nearby:
- Shop and eat your way around Central Phuket
- Snap photos at the AR Trickeye Museum
- Take a stroll through the colourful streets of Phuket Old Town
Curious about what else awaits you at Phuket? Just read our Complete Phuket Guide and make your phuket itinerary even better.
Ready to Explore?
At the end of the day, Aquaria Phuket is a full underwater adventure hiding beneath a busy mall, from cheeky otters and waddling penguins to a shark-filled tunnel and a magical mermaid show. Whether it is a rainy afternoon or just a fun break from the beach, it delivers wide-eyed "wow" moments for the whole family.
So do not just picture it, go and see it. Book your tickets on Thrillark, skip the queue, and let the ocean come to you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquaria Phuket
What is Aquaria Phuket, and where is it located?
Aquaria Phuket is the largest aquarium in Thailand, located on the B1 level of Central Phuket Floresta mall in Phuket Town. It opened in 2019 and is home to more than 25,000 marine and land animals across nine themed zones. Its central mall location makes it easy to reach and comfortable to enjoy in any weather.
How many zones and animals does Aquaria Phuket have?
Aquaria Phuket features nine themed zones that take you on a journey from jungle rivers to the open sea. Together they hold over 25,000 animals across roughly 300 species, from otters and penguins to sharks and rays. Each zone has its own theme, so the scenery keeps changing as you explore.
What is the underwater tunnel at Aquaria Phuket like?
The underwater tunnel at Aquaria Phuket runs about 40 metres through the giant South China Sea tank. As you walk through it, sharks, rays, and schools of fish glide right over your head and all around you. It is the most popular photo spot in the whole aquarium.
What time is the Mermaid Show at Aquaria Phuket?
The Mermaid Show at Aquaria Phuket usually takes place twice a day, at around 11 am and 3 pm. Talented performers dive without scuba gear and dance in silicone fins inside the main tank. Since exact times can change, it is best to check the daily schedule when you arrive.
How long does a visit to Aquaria Phuket take?
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring Aquaria Phuket. That gives you enough time to wander all nine zones and catch a couple of shows without feeling rushed. If you want to see every feeding, you may want to allow a little extra.
What are Aquaria Phuket's opening hours?
Aquaria Phuket is open daily from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm. The last entry is at 5:00 pm, one hour before closing, so plan to arrive with time to spare. Weekday mornings and early afternoons are usually the quietest.
Is Aquaria Phuket good for young kids and strollers?
Yes, Aquaria Phuket is one of the best family attractions on the island. The touch pools, otters, penguins, and shows keep little ones entertained for hours. The whole venue is stroller-friendly, with ramps and lifts making it easy to get around.
How do I get to Aquaria Phuket from Patong or Phuket Town?
Aquaria Phuket sits inside Central Phuket Floresta mall in Wichit, close to Phuket Town. From Phuket Town it is about 20 to 30 minutes away, while from Patong it is roughly a 20-minute drive. A Grab, taxi, local minibus, or airport bus will all get you there easily.
Is there parking at Aquaria Phuket?
Yes, there is parking available at Central Phuket Floresta Mall, where Aquaria Phuket is located. Since the aquarium is on the basement level, it is a short and simple walk once you park. This makes driving a stress-free option for families.
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