If you are on the hunt for a new day out that’s fun for the whole family and leaves you just a little bit smarter, Singapore has just added a massive new gem to its attractions list. Say hello to the Singapore Oceanarium, the sparkling new marine wonderland that’s just opened its doors at Resorts World Sentosa.
And when we say massive, we mean it. It’s three times bigger than the old S.E.A. Aquarium, and it’s packed with experiences that’ll educate and ignite your inner explorer whether you’re five or fifty.
Dive into 22 Zones of Ocean Magic
Gone are the days of just staring at fish tanks. The Singapore Oceanarium is all about immersive storytelling and hands-on discovery. With 22 themed zones, you’ll journey from prehistoric oceans to Singapore’s own mangrove shores, swim alongside majestic rays in the Open Ocean zone, and come face-to-face with some of the world’s largest sea jelly habitats. (Trust us, the 6.8-metre-wide Moon Jelly kreisel tank is the stuff of dreams. Seriously, it’s hypnotic.)
Kids (and adults) will love Ancient Waters, where life-sized animatronics of ancient sea giants like the Dunkleosteus will have you questioning if you accidentally wandered into Jurassic Park. Meanwhile, Singapore’s Coast brings it closer to home, letting you meet local marine creatures like Archerfish and Mudskippers in habitats that mimic our own shores.
Step into the Spirit of Exploration, where history and adventure collide. At the heart of this zone is the Jewel of Muscat, a full-scale reconstruction of a 9th-century Omani ship that once braved the vast Indian Ocean. Above it, brave visitors can take to the Pier Adventure, a suspended web walkway that offers a whole new perspective of the exhibit (and a bit of a thrill!).
Need a break?
Pop by the Explorer’s Nook Café situated right beside the ship for marine-themed pastries and browse ocean-inspired keepsakes. If you’re a fan of savoury, eggy pastries, the Laksa Quiche is a must-try. And before you dive back into the rest of the Oceanarium, grab a slushie for a refreshing pick-me-up to keep you going.
Feeling brave? Head to the Shark Tunnel in Shark Seas for an up-close look at Sand Tiger Sharks and Hammerheads as they glide around you. Or if the deep sea’s more your thing, check out Whale Fall, where an immersive light show tells the story of life in the ocean’s darkest depths. It’s eerie in the best way.
Beyond the Tanks: Interactive Fun & Learning
It’s not just about looking, it’s about doing. Little ones can create their own digital fish at the Art-quarium, while older kids (and curious adults) can dive into marine science at the Research & Learning Centre, Singapore’s first Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy marine science hub. Yep, it runs on solar power because saving the planet starts here.
For those who want to get really hands-on, the Oceanarium has a line-up of special programmes. There’s a Fossilist Workshop where you can dig for real fossils, and for the kiddos, a Junior Ocean Fossilist version that’s just the right mix of fun and discovery. Or go behind the scenes with an Animal Spotlight tour and meet the sea jelly nursery and coral caretakers who are literally growing marine life.
Stay the Night? Yes, Really!
If you’re after something truly unique, book the Ocean Dreams experience: an after-hours, glamping-style sleepover inside the Oceanarium itself. Think cosy tents, gourmet meals, and the surreal experience of drifting off to sleep with marine life swimming around you. It’s definitely one for the bucket list.
Quick Need-to-Knows
- Location: Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway
- Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 7pm (last entry at 6pm)
- Tickets: From $50 for adults, $42 for kids and seniors (Singapore residents get discounted rates starting from $42 and $35 respectively).
- More info
So whether you’re a marine life enthusiast, a parent looking for the next big weekend adventure, or just someone after an Insta-worthy day out, the Singapore Oceanarium is the place to be this year. Pack the family, charge your phones, and get ready to make some waves.
