Everything You Need to Know about Aquaria Phuket Before Going
If you are planning to visit Phuket, Thailand, you might want to add Aquaria Phuket to your itinerary. Aquaria Phuket is the best aquarium in Phuket and the biggest in Thailand, with over 25,000 aquatic animals and four interactive zones to explore. Whether you are a fan of otters, penguins, sharks, or jellyfish, you will find something to amaze and inspire you at this amazing attraction. In this blog post, I will share with you everything you need to know about Aquaria Phuket before going, such as how to get there, what to see and do, how much it costs, and what are the best times to visit. By the end of this post, you will have all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Aquaria Phuket.
Aquaria Phuket is a state-of-the-art aquarium that showcases the diversity and beauty of marine life from different regions of the world. It is located in the basement of Central Phuket Floresta, a shopping mall in the heart of Phuket Town. Aquaria Phuket covers an area of 10,000 square meters and features more than 300 species of fish, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates. Visitors can enjoy four themed zones: Mystic Forest, Coastal Haven, South China Sea, and Station Aquarius. Each zone has its own unique attractions, such as a walk-through tunnel, a touch pool, a feeding station, and an underwater dome. Aquaria Phuket is open daily from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm, with the last admission at 6:00 pm. The ticket prices are 890 baht for adults and 590 baht for children and seniors. However, there are often discounts and promotions available online or at the counter. Aquaria Phuket is a must-see destination for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to learn more about its amazing creatures.
Now that you have a general idea of what Aquaria Phuket is and what it offers, you might be wondering how to make the most of your visit. Don’t worry, I have you covered. In the following sections, I will give you some tips and tricks on how to get to Aquaria Phuket, what are the best times to visit, what are the highlights of each zone, and what are some of the special activities and events that you can enjoy at this amazing aquarium. So keep reading to find out more.
What is Aquaria Phuket?
If you are looking for a fun and educational way to spend a day in Phuket, you should definitely consider visiting Aquaria Phuket, the best aquarium in Phuket and the biggest in Thailand. Aquaria Phuket is a state-of-the-art aquarium that showcases the diversity and beauty of marine life from different regions of the world. It is located in the basement of Central Phuket Floresta, a shopping mall in the heart of Phuket Town. In this introduction, I will tell you what Aquaria Phuket is and why you should visit it.
Aquaria Phuket covers an area of 10,000 square meters and features more than 300 species of fish, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates. Visitors can enjoy four themed zones: Mystic Forest, Coastal Haven, South China Sea, and Station Aquarius. Each zone has its own unique attractions, such as a walk-through tunnel, a touch pool, a feeding station, and an underwater dome. You can also interact with some of the animals and learn more about them from the knowledgeable and friendly staff.
Aquaria Phuket is not only an aquarium, but also a place where you can experience art and technology. You can visit the AR Trick Eye Museum, the first trick eye museum in Thailand that uses augmented reality to create amazing effects. You can also dine at Andasi, the world’s largest underwater restaurant and Asia’s first marine lounge. You can enjoy delicious food and drinks while watching sharks, rays, and thousands of fishes swim by.
Aquaria Phuket is a must-see destination for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to learn more about its amazing creatures. It is suitable for all ages and interests, as it offers something for everyone. Whether you want to admire the colorful corals, watch the playful otters, feed the hungry penguins, or dive with the sharks, you will find it at Aquaria Phuket. It is also a great place to escape the heat and relax in a cool and comfortable environment.
Aquaria Phuket is open daily from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm, with the last admission at 6:00 pm. The ticket prices are 890 baht for adults and 590 baht for children and seniors. However, there are often discounts and promotions available online or at the counter. You can also buy combo tickets that include admission to both Aquaria Phuket and AR Trick Eye Museum.
In the following sections, I will give you more details about Aquaria Phuket, such as how to get there, what to see and do in each zone, how to make the most of your visit, and what else you can do nearby. By the end of this blog post, you will have all the information you need to plan your perfect day at Aquaria Phuket. So, keep reading and get ready to dive into the underwater world of Aquaria Phuket.
How to Get to Aquaria Phuket
Aquaria Phuket is located in the basement of Central Phuket Floresta, a shopping mall in the heart of Phuket Town. It is easy to get to Aquaria Phuket by various modes of transportation, depending on your budget, preference, and location. Here are some of the options you can choose from:
If you have your own car or rent a car, you can drive to Aquaria Phuket using a map or a GPS. The address of Aquaria Phuket is 199 Central Phuket Floresta, Unit No. 126 Moo 4, Tambol Vichit, Phuket, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Thailand. There is plenty of parking space available at the mall, both indoor and outdoor. The parking fee is 20 baht per hour for the first 4 hours, and 40 baht per hour for the subsequent hours.
You can also take a taxi to Aquaria Phuket from anywhere on the island. The taxi fare depends on the distance and the traffic, but you can expect to pay around 300 to 500 baht from Patong, Kata, or Karon beaches. You can also use a ride-hailing app such as Grab or Bolt to book a taxi online. Make sure to tell the driver to drop you off at Central Phuket Floresta, and then proceed to Floor B1 where Aquaria Phuket is located.
Another popular mode of transportation in Phuket is the tuk-tuk, which is a three-wheeled vehicle that can accommodate up to four passengers. Tuk-tuks are usually found near tourist attractions, hotels, and beaches. You can negotiate a fare with the tuk-tuk driver to take you to Aquaria Phuket. The fare may vary depending on your bargaining skills and the driver’s mood, but it should be around 200 to 400 baht from Patong, Kata, or Karon beaches. Be aware that tuk-tuks are not very comfortable or safe, and they may try to take you to other places along the way.
If you are on a tight budget or want to experience the local public transportation, you can take a bus to Aquaria Phuket. There are two types of buses in Phuket: the blue songthaews and the pink smart buses. The blue songthaews are converted pickup trucks that run along fixed routes around the island. They are very cheap, costing only 10 to 40 baht per trip, but they are also very slow and crowded. You can catch a blue songthaew from any major road or intersection, and get off at Central Festival stop. Then you can walk for about 10 minutes to Central Phuket Floresta. The pink smart buses are modern air-conditioned buses that connect Phuket International Airport with various destinations along the west coast of the island. They are more comfortable and reliable than the blue songthaews, but they are also more expensive, costing 50 to 170 baht per trip. You can buy a ticket online or at the bus stop using a Rabbit Card or cash. You can catch a pink smart bus from any of the designated stops along the route, and get off at Central Festival stop. Then you can walk for about 10 minutes to Central Phuket Floresta.
The table below summarizes the transportation options and their pros and cons:
| Mode | Cost | Time | Comfort | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car | Varies | Fast | High | High |
| Taxi | High | Fast | High | High |
| Tuk-tuk | Medium | Medium | Low | Low |
| Bus | Low | Slow | Medium | Medium |
As you can see, there are many ways to get to Aquaria Phuket depending on your needs and preferences. No matter which option you choose, you will be rewarded with an amazing underwater journey at Phuket’s best aquarium.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Aquaria Phuket: Ticket Prices, Discounts and Promotions
Aquaria Phuket is a great value for money, as it offers a lot of entertainment and education for a reasonable price. The ticket prices vary depending on your nationality, age, and whether you want to visit only the aquarium or also the AR Trick Eye Museum. Here are the ticket prices as of 2023:
| Ticket Type | Non-Thai Residents | Thai Residents & Expats |
|---|---|---|
| Aquaria Admission Ticket | 890 baht for adults and 590 baht for children (91-120 cm) | 450 baht for adults and 290 baht for children (91-120 cm) |
| AR Trickeye Museum Admission Ticket | 450 baht for adults and 290 baht for children (91-120 cm) | 250 baht for adults and 150 baht for children (91-120 cm) |
| [Combo] Aquaria + Trickeye Museum Tickets | 999 baht for adults and 640 baht for children (91-120 cm) | 610 baht for adults and 390 baht for children (91-120 cm) |
Children with a height of 90 cm or below can enter free of charge. You can buy the tickets online or at the counter. However, buying online may give you some advantages, such as:
- You can get discounts and promotions from various platforms, such as Klook, Traveloka, or Aquaria Phuket’s official website.
- You can skip the queue and enter faster with your mobile voucher.
- You can choose an open date ticket that is valid until September 30, 2024.
- You can change your booking date up to three days before the activity for free.
Some of the discounts and promotions that are available online as of 2023 are:
- Klook: You can save up to 26% off the regular price by booking through Klook. You can also use Klook credits or promo codes to get extra discounts. For example, you can use the code AQUARIA10 to get an additional 10% off.
- Traveloka: You can get up to 20% off the regular price by booking through Traveloka. You can also use Traveloka coupons or points to get extra discounts. For example, you can use the coupon AQUARIA20 to get an additional 20% off.
- Aquaria Phuket: You can get up to 15% off the regular price by booking through Aquaria Phuket’s official website. You can also get a free souvenir photo if you book online.
As you can see, there are many ways to save money and enjoy Aquaria Phuket at a lower cost. However, these discounts and promotions may change or expire over time, so make sure to check the latest updates before you book your tickets.
What to See and Do at Aquaria Phuket
Aquaria Phuket is a place where you can see and do a lot of things that will make your visit memorable and enjoyable. Aquaria Phuket has four interactive zones that showcase the diversity and beauty of marine life from different regions of the world. Each zone has its own unique attractions, such as a walk-through tunnel, a touch pool, a feeding station, and an underwater dome. In this section, I will give you a guide to the four zones and their highlights, so you can plan your itinerary and make the most of your time at Aquaria Phuket.
- Zone 1: Mystic Forest. This zone is inspired by the tropical rainforest of Southeast Asia, where you can discover the rich biodiversity and fascinating adaptations of the animals that live there. Some of the animals you can see in this zone are otters, crocodiles, snakes, frogs, turtles, and fish. You can also interact with some of the animals and learn more about them from the staff. One of the highlights of this zone is the Otter Feeding Show, where you can watch the playful otters enjoy their meal and perform some tricks.
- Zone 2: Coastal Haven. This zone is based on the coastal habitats of Thailand, where you can explore the mangroves, coral reefs, and sandy beaches that are home to many colorful and charismatic creatures. Some of the animals you can see in this zone are seahorses, clownfish, lionfish, crabs, starfish, and jellyfish. You can also touch some of the animals and feel their different textures at the Touch Pool. One of the highlights of this zone is the Jellyfish Dome, where you can marvel at the graceful movements and glowing colors of the jellyfish.
- Zone 3: South China Sea. This zone is modeled after the South China Sea, one of the most diverse and productive marine ecosystems in the world. Here you can encounter some of the most iconic and impressive animals of the ocean, such as sharks, rays, groupers, barracudas, and tunas. You can also walk through a tunnel that gives you a 270-degree view of the underwater world. One of the highlights of this zone is the Shark Feeding Show, where you can witness the power and agility of the sharks as they hunt for their prey.
- Zone 4: Station Aquarius. This zone is designed to resemble a research station that studies the mysteries and wonders of the deep sea. Here you can learn more about the science and technology behind Aquaria Phuket, as well as some of the rare and unusual animals that live in the dark depths of the ocean. Some of the animals you can see in this zone are giant spider crabs, giant isopods, nautilus, lanternfish, and anglerfish. You can also participate in some interactive games and experiments that will test your knowledge and skills. One of the highlights of this zone is the Underwater Dome, where you can sit inside a glass sphere and watch thousands of fishes swim around you.
These are the four zones that you can enjoy at Aquaria Phuket. Each zone has its own charm and appeal, so make sure to visit them all and discover their secrets. In addition to these zones, you can also experience some special activities and events that will make your visit even more exciting and unforgettable.
When to Visit Aquaria Phuket
Aquaria Phuket is a place that you can visit all year round, as it is open daily from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm, with the last admission at 6:00 pm. However, there are some factors that may affect your visit, such as the weather, the crowd, and the events. In this section, I will tell you when is the best time to visit Aquaria Phuket, based on these factors.
- Weather: Phuket has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season lasts from November to April, and the rainy season lasts from May to October. The dry season is generally more pleasant and sunny, with an average temperature of 28°C and an average rainfall of 40 mm per month. The rainy season is more humid and cloudy, with an average temperature of 29°C and an average rainfall of 260 mm per month. However, the weather can be unpredictable and vary from day to day. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast before you go to Aquaria Phuket. Aquaria Phuket is an indoor attraction, so you can enjoy it regardless of the weather outside. However, if you want to explore other attractions nearby, such as the Central Phuket Floresta shopping mall or the Phuket Old Town, you may prefer a sunny day over a rainy day.
- Crowd: Aquaria Phuket can get crowded during peak seasons and holidays, such as Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, Songkran (Thai New Year), and school holidays. During these times, you may encounter long queues and large groups of visitors inside the aquarium. You may also have difficulty finding parking space or getting a taxi. Therefore, if you want to avoid the crowd and have a more relaxing and comfortable visit, you may want to visit Aquaria Phuket during off-peak seasons and weekdays. You can also visit Aquaria Phuket in the morning or in the evening, when it is less busy and more peaceful.
- Events: Aquaria Phuket hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as animal shows, feeding sessions, workshops, games, contests, and festivals. These events and activities can add more fun and excitement to your visit, as you can watch, learn, and participate in them. You can also meet some of the staff and experts who will share their knowledge and passion for the marine life and their conservation. You can check the schedule of the events and activities on the website or at the entrance, and plan your itinerary accordingly. You can also follow Aquaria Phuket on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram to get updates and news about the latest events and promotions.
These are some of the factors that may influence your decision on when to visit Aquaria Phuket. Of course, you can visit Aquaria Phuket anytime you want, as it is always open and ready to welcome you. However, by choosing the best time for your visit, you can optimize your experience and satisfaction at Aquaria Phuket
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Aquaria Phuket: Tips and Tricks for a Fun and Educational Experience
Aquaria Phuket is a place where you can have a lot of fun and learn a lot of things at the same time. However, to make the most of your visit, you need to plan ahead and follow some tips and tricks that will help you enjoy your time at the aquarium. Here are some of the tips and tricks that I recommend you to follow:
- Plan your visit in advance. Aquaria Phuket is open daily from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm, with the last admission at 6:00 pm. However, the best time to visit is in the morning or in the evening, when it is less crowded and more comfortable. You can also check the schedule of the shows and activities on the website or at the entrance, and plan your itinerary accordingly. You can also download the Aquaria Phuket app on your smartphone, which will give you more information and features about the aquarium.
- Buy your tickets online. Buying your tickets online will save you money and time, as you can get discounts and promotions from various platforms, such as Klook, Traveloka, or Aquaria Phuket’s official website. You can also skip the queue and enter faster with your mobile voucher. You can also choose an open date ticket that is valid until September 30, 2024. You can also change your booking date up to three days before the activity for free.
- Bring your own water bottle and snacks. Aquaria Phuket does not allow outside food and drinks inside the aquarium, except for water bottles. However, you can bring your own water bottle and snacks and leave them in the locker room near the entrance. The locker fee is 20 baht per hour for small lockers and 40 baht per hour for large lockers. You can also buy food and drinks at Andasi, the underwater restaurant, or at the cafeteria near the exit. However, they may be expensive and limited in options.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Aquaria Phuket is a large and spacious place, where you will walk a lot and explore different zones. Therefore, you should wear comfortable clothes and shoes that will allow you to move freely and enjoyably. You should also bring a jacket or a sweater, as it may get cold inside the aquarium due to the air conditioning.
- Take photos and videos, but respect the animals. Aquaria Phuket is a great place to take photos and videos of the amazing marine life and scenery. You can use your camera or smartphone to capture your memories and share them with your friends and family. However, you should respect the animals and their habitats by following some rules, such as:
- Do not use flash or bright lights, as they may disturb or harm the animals.
- Do not tap on the glass or make loud noises, as they may scare or stress the animals.
- Do not feed or touch the animals without permission or supervision from the staff.
- Do not litter or throw anything into the tanks or pools.
- Learn more about the animals and their conservation. Aquaria Phuket is not only an entertainment venue, but also an educational center that aims to raise awareness and appreciation for the marine life and their conservation. You can learn more about the animals and their stories by reading the signs and labels, listening to the audio guides, watching the videos, or talking to the staff. You can also participate in some of the interactive games and experiments that will test your knowledge and skills. You can also support some of the conservation projects that Aquaria Phuket is involved in, such as:
- Adopting an animal from Aquaria Phuket’s adoption program, where you can choose from otters, penguins, sharks, rays, or seahorses. You will receive a certificate, a photo, a plush toy, and updates about your adopted animal.
- Donating to Aquaria Phuket’s conservation fund, where you can contribute to various causes such as coral reef restoration, sea turtle rescue, shark protection, or plastic pollution reduction.
- Volunteering at Aquaria Phuket’s conservation activities, where you can join some of the events such as beach cleanups, mangrove planting, coral propagation, or animal care.
These are some of the tips and tricks that will help you make the most of your visit to Aquaria Phuket. By following these tips and tricks, you will have a fun and educational experience that will enrich your knowledge and appreciation for the marine life and their conservation.