Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay?
What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Shared tunnel views and VR films feel intimate, and paid proposal or tandem shark dive add novelty, yet lack of quiet lounges or onsite café lowers extended date potential.
Positives:
- All-inclusive exhibits: Your admission ticket covers the shark tunnel and VR theater at no extra cost.
- Central Strip location: Located inside Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas Strip, it’s easy to combine with nearby shows and restaurants.
Challenges:
- Timed-entry ticket slots: Popular time slots can sell out days ahead; book online to secure your preferred entry.
- Peak crowd periods: Late afternoons and weekends draw the most visitors, which may lead to exhibit queues.
What is Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay?
- A state-of-the-art marine aquarium within Mandalay Bay Resort showcasing sharks, rays, sea turtles and exotic fish in themed habitats
- A 1.6-million-gallon central exhibit anchored by a 300-foot acrylic tunnel simulating a sunken shipwreck
- Fourteen distinct galleries presenting diverse environments, from vibrant coral reefs to ethereal jellyfish displays
What is so special about Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay for couple trip?
- Walk through a 300-foot acrylic tunnel beneath sharks and rays.
- Share a 360° 3-D VR “swim” in the Undersea Explorer theater.
- Hand-feed green sea turtles during afternoon feeding sessions.
- Opt for the certified Dive with Sharks program for a thrilling experience.
- Propose underwater with a professional photo in the main exhibit.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to explore the tunnel, catch the VR show, and join a feeding session at a relaxed pace.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Shark Tunnel Walk:
Stroll through a 300-foot acrylic tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish in a sunken ship setting.
Tip: Pause in the center of the tunnel for the best photo with sharks gliding above.
Undersea Explorer VR Theater:
Experience a 360° 3-D virtual reality film on a motion platform that simulates swimming with whales and sharks.
Tip: Arrive early to claim center seats for the most immersive view.
Sea Turtle Feeding:
Hand-feed the aquarium’s 300-pound green sea turtles with lettuce and fish during the daily session.
Tip: Check the feeding time schedule on arrival; sessions fill quickly.
Dive with Sharks Program:
Certified divers swim un-caged with over 30 sharks, rays, and turtles inside the shipwreck exhibit.
Tip: Book weeks in advance and bring your SCUBA certification card to confirm your spot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
- Book online in advance: Reserve timed-entry tickets on the MGM Resorts website to skip the box office line.
- Arrive before 11 AM: Early entry offers quieter galleries and optimal lighting for photos.
- Leverage resort perks: Show your Mandalay Bay room key for discounts on parking and dining nearby.
Reviews of Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Veronica Montes
We took our time to really look at the animals and enjoy the company. We stayed for around an hour. We loved just seeing all the sharks and turtles swim over us and truly loved seeing it. The staff is super friendly answered any questions we had.
Karlie Hill
I haven't been here since I was a kid growing up in Vegas.. now as an adult I took my husband and we had the best time! It was a perfect date and so beautiful and amazing that you can enjoy something like this on the strip!! 10/10 definitely recommend and cant wait to go back! I also completely forgot you can pet sting rays! (They don't have their barbs) so cool!
B
This was a cool place to visit if you’re anywhere by the Mandalay! The staff are very knowledgeable and happy to talk with you about the animals, there’s also a touch pool where you can touch the sting rays which was fun. The shark tunnel was a great way to see the sharks and a few of the bigger fish, especially since it’s set in a shipwreck area. The only thing that let this down was it was quite...
Landon Bellamy
I had a lot of fun with this! Located at the very southern edge of the strip in the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, it can be quite the trek to get here. The staff isn’t the best, but I liked the experience. This is VERY well themed and perfectly conveys the theme of the resort. The aquarium is educational and has a lot! I liked the shark aquarium and the Komodo Dragon the best. Overall, I would ...
Melina Dhana
We had an excellent experience today at the Mandalay Bay Aquarium. A place that can be described as relaxing, where you can see several interesting species of sea creatures. You can also enjoy a six-minute 3D video show that makes you feel like you're diving underwater with sharks. Very interesting experience. I have to say that the entrance fee is a bit pricey considering how small the place is ...
When is the best time to visit Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (Las Vegas, United States)?
The aquarium is indoors and climate controlled year-round. Visit weekdays before noon to avoid larger weekend crowds and lines.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General admission (2 adults) | USD 58 |
| Sea turtle feeding (2 people) | USD 198 |
| Total Estimated | USD 256 |
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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Map of Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
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About Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
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
+1 702-632-4555Average price
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