SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium?
What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can touch starfish, climb the Shipwreck Shores indoor playground and attend 14 daily feed talks; flat paths, toilets and seating support parents, so the venue suits school-age families.
Positives:
- Climate-Controlled: Fully indoor exhibits keep the family comfortable in any weather.
- Family Amenities: Baby-care room, pram ramps and accessible restrooms make visits easier.
Challenges:
- Tunnel Crowding: The undersea tunnel can get busy at peak times, making it hard to stop and view.
- Limited Café Menu: Food options are basic; bring refillable water bottles and small snacks.
What is SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium?
- A three-level aquarium on the Sunshine Coast showcasing over 10,000 marine and freshwater creatures across 16 themed zones
- An 80-metre undersea tunnel encircled by displays of sharks, rays, jellyfish and sea dragons
- A SEA LIFE-operated conservation and research centre dedicated to marine education and species protection
What is so special about SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium for with kids?
- Walk through an 80 m shark and ray tunnel
- Let kids climb and slide at Shipwreck Shores
- Hand-feed penguins and watch lively seal presentations
- Touch starfish and anemones in shallow pools
- Enjoy indoor, climate-controlled exhibits with family facilities
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This time lets a family see main exhibits, join feeds, and explore the play zone without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
Undersea Ocean Tunnel:
Walk through the 80 m tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays and reef fish.
Tip: Go early to avoid peak crowds and linger at shark viewing spots.
Shipwreck Shores Play Zone:
Three-level indoor playground with slides and climbing frames.
Tip: Visit here first so kids burn energy before moving on to quieter exhibits.
Little Blue Penguin Zone:
Watch Australia’s only colony of little blue penguins from above and below water.
Tip: Stand by the lower viewing window at feeding times for best close-up views.
Seal Presentation:
15-minute show with seals playing and trainers sharing fun facts.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes before start to get front-row seats at the glass panels.
Tidal Touchpools:
Feel starfish, sea cucumbers and gentle anemones in supervised shallow tanks.
Tip: Bring a small towel or use provided hand-dryers to keep kids comfortable.
When is the best time to visit SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium (Sunshine Coast, Australia)?
During Queensland school holidays and summer weekends, book tickets online and arrive at opening to beat long queues.
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Reviews of SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium (Sunshine Coast)
Ross Pepper
Had a really great time. Loved the underwater tunnel experience. Were really enjoying the behind-the-scenes experience until asked if we wanted to see the seal show which they'd reserved seats for us. We said yes and after it we were told we were done. However we were expecting more based on our guides comments prior to it. We all felt disappointed at the abrupt finish and like we'd missed out as ...
LM S
Lovely place to take the whole family. Touch & feel pond. Penguins, seals, sealife. Plenty of kids friendly activities and play spaces. Buy cheaper tickets online a few days before you visit. Pram & wheelchair friendly. Plenty of places to eat nearby
Rhea Evans
I love this place, my 7 month old son is obsessed with watching the fish in the underwater tunnel. They raise money for conservation work and research and rescue of injured and sick wildlife like turtles and sea lions/seals. It's usually fairly quiet on a weekday during school times, it gets pretty packed on a weekend or holiday times but even with a crowd it's still lots of fun, I like to walk th...
Sharon George
Such a fun experience! The exhibits are well-maintained and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Loved getting up close with the sea creatures—especially the sharks and rays! Great place for families or anyone interested in marine life.
Vân Anh Hoàng Thị
Great spot for families. They have a seal show too. the seals are super cute and smart! The only downside is that the aquarium’s pretty small, so I didn’t feel totally satisfied. Should go early a little bit, extremely difficult to find a parking spot :((
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 4 Standard Entry Tickets | AUD 128 |
| On-site Snacks & Drinks | AUD 20 |
| Parking | AUD 0 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 148 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
- Skip the Line: Buy tickets online to use the dedicated entry lane.
- Plan Feed Times: Check daily feed and talk schedules on arrival and map your route around them.
- Early Arrival: Arrive at opening for quieter galleries and better photo opportunities.
Map of SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
Address: Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557, Australia
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About SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 9333 9200Explore Popular Things to Do
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