Smart Self-Managed Tours

Family attraction · Cape Town

Two Oceans Aquarium

Photograph

A photograph of Two Oceans Aquarium
Photograph · HelenOnline · CC BY-SA 3.0
Today
Open today, 09:30 – 18:00
Visit duration
1 hr 30 min
Accessibility
Step-free
Price
ZAR 280.00 per person
Standing
Must see
Rank
Rank 13 of 4,639

About Two Oceans Aquarium

Two Oceans Aquarium is a public aquarium situated at Cape Town's V&A Waterfront. The facility takes its name from the unique marine environment at the southern tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge. As Cape Town's principal family-friendly marine-life attraction, it serves as an all-weather destination that complements the city's coastal experiences. The aquarium focuses on exhibiting the diverse aquatic ecosystems found in these two distinct oceanic systems. Monday–Friday 09:30–18:00; weekends, public holidays and school holidays 09:00–18:00.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What's inside

The aquarium showcases marine life from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, reflecting the biodiversity of these converging water bodies. Exhibits typically feature local species adapted to the contrasting conditions of the cold Atlantic and warmer Indian Ocean. Interactive elements and educational displays cater to family audiences. The V&A Waterfront location places it within a major tourist precinct, allowing visitors to combine aquarium exploration with other harbour-side activities, dining, and shopping opportunities in the surrounding area. General adult day ticket: R280. The ticket provides all-day admission and may be used within 90 days of purchase.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

How long to spend

Visitors should allocate sufficient time to appreciate the aquarium's dual-ocean narrative and varied exhibits. A thorough visit would involve progressing through the themed sections representing different marine habitats. Families with children may wish to factor in additional time for interactive displays and potential scheduled activities. The all-weather nature of the attraction means it can serve as either a primary destination or a flexible component within a broader V&A Waterfront itinerary, depending on individual interest levels and pace. General adult day ticket: R280. The ticket provides all-day admission and may be used within 90 days of purchase.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Season and crowds

Visitors should consult the aquarium's official communication channels for current opening times, last-entry provisions, and any seasonal variations before planning their visit. The all-weather character of the attraction makes it suitable throughout the year as a complement to outdoor coastal activities. The useful pace depends on personal interest and conditions on arrival. Monday–Friday 09:30–18:00; weekends, public holidays and school holidays 09:00–18:00. Wheelchair-friendly, accessible flooring is provided throughout visitor areas. Ramps connect the upper and lower levels. Wheelchairs are available through the visitor service. Accessible parking bays are provided. First-aid assistance and baby-changing facilities are available.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Tickets

Prospective visitors must verify current admission costs, available concessions, and family or group rates through official sources prior to arrival. The V&A Waterfront setting suggests multiple payment and booking options may exist. Visitors should enquire about any combined ticketing possibilities with other waterfront attractions. Advance purchase may be advisable during high-demand periods. General adult day ticket: R280. The ticket provides all-day admission and may be used within 90 days of purchase. Wheelchair-friendly, accessible flooring is provided throughout visitor areas. Ramps connect the upper and lower levels. Wheelchairs are available through the visitor service.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Getting there

Two Oceans Aquarium occupies a position within the V&A Waterfront precinct, a well-established destination in Cape Town. The waterfront area is served by various transport modes including road access for private vehicles, taxis, and ride services. Public transport connections extend to this major tourist hub. The entrance is on Dock Road in the V&A Waterfront. MyCiTi bus stop 104 serves the Aquarium, and it is a named landmark stop on City Sightseeing Cape Town's hop-on hop-off route. Portswood Parking Garage is directly opposite the Aquarium on Dock Road; its parking charge is separate from admission.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What to watch out for

The aquarium's popularity as a family destination means visitors should anticipate crowding during peak periods. The contrast between Atlantic and Indian Ocean exhibits represents a central interpretive theme requiring attentive engagement to fully appreciate. Photography restrictions may apply in certain areas to protect sensitive marine life. Visitors with young children should maintain appropriate supervision near open water features. Wheelchair-friendly, accessible flooring is provided throughout visitor areas. Wheelchairs are available through the visitor service. Accessible parking bays are provided. First-aid assistance and baby-changing facilities are available. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Photography

Photography policies within the aquarium should be confirmed on-site or through official channels before visiting. Marine exhibits present particular challenges including low-light conditions, reflections on glass surfaces, and movement of aquatic subjects. Flash photography may be restricted to prevent disturbance to sensitive species. The visual contrast between the darker Atlantic-themed displays and brighter Indian Ocean sections requires adaptable camera settings. Accessible parking bays are provided. First-aid assistance and baby-changing facilities are available. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Yes. A day ticket permits re-entry on the same day.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Common questions

Can children visit without an adult?

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Can visitors leave for a meal and return?

Yes. A day ticket permits re-entry on the same day.

Can visitors bring outside food and drink inside?

No. Outside food and drink may not be consumed inside the Aquarium; designated snack stations and on-site food outlets are available.

Does the Aquarium store luggage or personal belongings?

No. The Visitor Services desk does not store personal belongings.

When are the African penguin feeds?

African penguin feeds take place daily at 11:30 and 14:30 in the Penguin Exhibit.

Is flash photography allowed?

No. The Aquarium's visitor map explicitly prohibits flash photography.

Where it is

Nearby

Within 6 min on foot
  • Watershed 45 min
    2 min walk

    Watershed

    • Must see
    • Market
  • Chavonnes Battery 1 hr 30 min
    5 min walk

    Chavonnes Battery

    • Must see
    • Museum
  • Cape Town Diamond Museum 1 hr 30 min
    6 min walk

    Cape Town Diamond Museum

    • Must see
    • Museum

Last updated:

Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, Wikidata ·