If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town, South Africa, one attraction that should be on your itinerary is the Two Oceans Aquarium. Situated at the bustling V&A Waterfront, this world-class marine attraction showcases the diverse aquatic life of the Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean, which meet at the southern tip of Africa.
More than just a tourist hotspot, the aquarium is a family-friendly experience, educational resource, and conservation hub. With more than 8,000 marine creatures, interactive displays, scuba diving opportunities, and eco-awareness programs, it’s no wonder the Two Oceans Aquarium consistently ranks as one of the top attractions in Cape Town.
Why “Two Oceans”?
The name “Two Oceans” reflects the unique geographic location of Cape Town, where the Atlantic Ocean (cold, nutrient-rich) and the Indian Ocean (warm, tropical) converge. This makes Cape Town one of the most biodiverse marine environments in the world.
Visitors to the aquarium get to see and learn about creatures from both oceans—from colorful tropical fish and seahorses to kelp forest dwellers, sharks, and penguins. It’s a rare opportunity to explore two vastly different marine ecosystems under one roof.
Key Exhibits & Attractions
The Two Oceans Aquarium is designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. Here are its main highlights:
1. The I&J Ocean Exhibit
- A massive 1.6 million-liter tank with a 30-meter-long viewing window.
- Home to rays, turtles, stingrays, and over 5,000 fish species.
- Offers diving opportunities, even for beginners (no scuba certification needed).
2. Kelp Forest Exhibit
- One of the only living kelp forest displays in the world.
- Showcases Cape Town’s coastal ecosystem, with shoals of silver fish weaving through giant kelp.
- Provides an immersive look into the underwater forests of South Africa.
3. Predator Exhibit
- Sharks, including ragged-tooth sharks (sand tigers), are the stars here.
- A 2-million-liter tank designed to highlight the role of predators in ocean health.
- Thrilling for children and adults alike.
4. Penguin Exhibit
- African penguins, rockhopper penguins, and their quirky behaviors delight visitors.
- Penguin feedings are scheduled daily.
- Also educates visitors about the conservation of endangered African penguins.
5. Touch Pool & Microscope Exhibit
- Hands-on interaction with starfish, sea anemones, and hermit crabs.
- Microscope stations let kids examine marine life up close.
- Perfect for families with children.
6. Jellies Exhibit
- Hypnotic displays of jellyfish floating under soft lighting.
- Highlights the delicate beauty and ecological importance of these creatures.
Tickets & Entry Information
Location
📍 The Two Oceans Aquarium is located at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town—easily accessible by car, taxi, or the MyCiTi bus service.
Opening Hours
- Open daily, typically from 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (hours may vary during holidays).
Ticket Prices (subject to change)
- Adults: Around R235 (~$12)
- Children (14–17 years): Around R175 (~$9)
- Children (4–13 years): Around R110 (~$6)
- Under 4 years: Free
- Family packages & memberships available.
👉 Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to skip queues and sometimes get discounts.
Unique Experiences
Beyond its exhibits, the Two Oceans Aquarium offers bucket-list experiences:
- Scuba Diving: Certified divers can explore tanks with sharks and rays.
- Penguin Experiences: Get up close with African penguins during special encounters.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Learn how the aquarium cares for its animals.
- Children’s Programs: The aquarium offers school holiday camps and educational workshops.
🌱 Conservation & Education
The Two Oceans Aquarium isn’t just about entertainment—it plays a crucial role in marine conservation.
Key Initiatives:
- Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release: Works with stranded sea turtles and injured seabirds.
- Marine Wildlife Monitoring: Supports scientific research on local ecosystems.
- Education Programs: Thousands of schoolchildren visit annually to learn about marine protection.
- Plastic-Free Advocacy: Campaigns against ocean pollution and promotes eco-conscious travel.
By visiting the aquarium, travelers are also supporting marine conservation efforts in South Africa.
Family-Friendly Destination
For families traveling to Cape Town, the Two Oceans Aquarium is a must-do attraction. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, penguin feedings, and touch pools. Parents will appreciate the safe, educational environment, and the aquarium’s central location at the V&A Waterfront, which also offers shopping, dining, and boat cruises.
Photography Tips
- Bring a camera with good low-light capabilities (flash is not allowed).
- The Kelp Forest Exhibit is stunning for wide shots.
- Penguins and jellyfish make great Instagram-worthy photos.
- Use the large viewing windows for creative family portraits.
When to Visit
The aquarium is open year-round, making it a perfect option for:
- Rainy winter days in Cape Town (great indoor activity).
- Hot summer afternoons when you want a break from the sun.
- Family travel itineraries—works well combined with nearby attractions like the Cape Wheel or Robben Island ferry.
Quick Travel Tips
- Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore fully.
- Check the feeding schedules for penguins, sharks, and turtles.
- Combine your visit with a V&A Waterfront day (markets, cruises, and restaurants).
- Book unique experiences like diving or behind-the-scenes tours in advance.
Final Thoughts
The Two Oceans Aquarium is more than just an attraction—it’s an experience that blends entertainment, education, and conservation. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or solo adventurer, it’s one of the best ways to explore Cape Town’s unique position at the meeting point of two oceans.
From sharks and penguins to kelp forests and jellyfish, this underwater world offers something magical for everyone. And by visiting, you’re also supporting the vital work of protecting South Africa’s marine ecosystems.
👉 If you’re building your Cape Town itinerary, make sure the Two Oceans Aquarium is at the top of your list.
