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Plan the perfect visit to SEA LIFE Melbourne

SEA LIFE Melbourne | Visitor information at a glance

  • What are SEA LIFE Melbourne’s opening hours?
    SEA LIFE Melbourne timings are 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays, and 9.30 AM to 5 PM on weekends.
  • Where is SEA LIFE Melbourne located?
    SEA LIFE Melbourne is located around the corner of Flinders Street and Kings Street, on the banks of the Yarra River.
  • How many entrances does SEA LIFE Melbourne have?
    According to the SEA LIFE Melbourne map, the aquarium has one primary entrance, which starts at admissions, followed by the Bay of Rays.
  • How many visitors does SEA LIFE Melbourne see per year?
    SEA LIFE Melbourne sees over 10 million visitors each year.

SEA LIFE Melbourne opening hours

  • General Timings: Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday to Sunday from 9.30 AM to 5 PM
  • Last Admission: 4 PM
  • Closed: Open throughout the year.

Best time to visit SEA LIFE Melbourne

Weekends vs Weekdays

Weekdays generally offer a more tranquil environment with fewer visitors compared to weekends. The aquarium tends to be less crowded, allowing you to explore the exhibits at a leisurely pace. If you're looking to avoid queues and have a more intimate encounter with marine life, early morning weekdays and after 2 PM (outside school holidays) are your best bet.

Peak Season vs Low Season

The peak tourist season, typically during the warmer months and school holidays, may bring larger crowds. For a more relaxed visit, opt for the low tourist season, when attendance tends to be lower. The months outside peak times offer a quieter, more enjoyable exploration of the underwater wonders.

Where is SEA LIFE Melbourne located?

Address: King St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

​Find On Maps

SEA LIFE Melbourne is situated on the banks of the Yarra River in the heart of Melbourne, Australia, on the corner of Flinders Street and King Street.

Closest landmark: Immigrations Museum (280 m away)

How to get to SEA LIFE Melbourne?

By Public Transport

By taxi: Taxis and rideshares are easily available and can take you to the SEA LIFE Melbourne location from anywhere in the city.

By train: SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is within walking distance from Flinders or Southern Cross stations.

By bus: Many bus routes like 216, 234, 250, 302, 906, etc. stop near the aquarium.

By tram: The tram stop for SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is on Flinders Street, right in front of the facility. It is served by routes 70 and 75, as well as the free City Circle Tram.

By car

To reach SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium by car, you can take Flinders Street via the M1 and M2, following the road signs.

Parking facilities 

  • Secure Parking (522 Flinders St): A paid parking facility with wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, situated only 280 m away from the SEA LIFE Melbourne location, and charges $20 per hour.
  • Secure Parking (300 Flinders St): A wheelchair-friendly car parking facility about 600 m away from the aquarium, charges start at $4.
  • Secure Parking (200 Queen St): A car parking facility located about 1.1 km from SEA LIFE Melbourne, it is wheelchair-friendly and charges $25 hourly.
  • Care Park (Siddeley Street): A wheelchair-accessible parking lot, located at a distance of 500 m from SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, with a parking fee starting at $6.

How to skip the line at SEA LIFE Melbourne:

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is a popular attraction in Melbourne, welcoming millions of visitors every year. Naturally, it can get busy and teeming with people. Here are some ways to avoid long queues and enjoy shorter wait times.

  • Save time and avoid queues by booking your SEA LIFE Melbourne tickets online before arriving.
  • Plan your visit during weekdays or off-peak hours to experience shorter lines.
  • Beat the crowds by arriving early when the venue opens for the day.

Know before you go

SEA LIFE Melbourne has a single entrance located at the corner of Flinders Street and King Street. Visitors can easily access the entrance by walking along the sidewalks or using public transportation. This main entrance is suitable for all ticket holders, providing a convenient and centralized access point to explore the captivating underwater world within the aquarium.

  • Restrooms: Well-maintained restrooms are strategically located throughout the venue for visitors' comfort and convenience.
  • Café: Enjoy a relaxing break at the on-site café, offering a variety of beverages and light refreshments.
  • Gift Shops: Explore the gift shops for souvenirs and marine-themed merchandise, providing memorable mementos of your visits.
  • Interactive Zones: Engage in interactive zones, enhancing your experience with educational facts and immersive displays.
  • Complimentary WiFi: Enjoy the complimentary wifi and stay connected to the world.
  • Wheelchair Accessibility: SEA LIFE Melbourne ensures full access for wheelchair users, with lifts and ramps on each floor and accessible toilets.
  • Assistance Animals: Visitors with visual impairments are welcomed with assistance animals and guide dogs.
  • Companion Card Benefits: Companions holding a valid carer or companion card enjoy free General Admission.
  • Wheelchair Borrowing: Wheelchairs are available on a first-come-first-served basis, and ID is required for borrowing.
  • Seating Throughout: Ample seating is available on all floors for the convenience of visitors.
  • Sensory Support: Guests with sensory sensitivity are encouraged to visit during quieter periods (weekdays after 2 PM) and can request noise-canceling headphones, subject to availability.
  • Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilets are conveniently located near the entrance, exit, and on every level of the aquarium.
  • Changing Facilities: Changing facilities are provided in accessible bathrooms and the Parents Room, located opposite the rockpools.
  • Children's Activities: SEA LIFE Melbourne hosts engaging children's activities and live character events.
  • Kid-Friendly Dining: Families can enjoy kid-friendly dining options like crumbed chicken strips, fish, toasties, and various beverages.
  • Convenient Amenities: Families have access to amenities catering to the comfort and needs of both parents and children.
  • Visitors cannot bring weapons, fireworks, smoke bombs, glass bottles, or any items causing injury.
  • Except for guide dogs, no other pets are allowed at the attraction.
  • Visitors cannot bring any alcoholic substances, those under the influence may be refused admission.
  • Visitors must adhere to a dress code that is not offensive to others and wear proper footwear and attire at all times.
  • Unnecessary noise and disruptive behavior that may annoy other visitors or animals are not allowed in any part of the attraction.
  • An adult (18 years or older) must accompany under 16s and remain responsible for their supervision at all times.
  • Climbing or standing upon railings, barriers, or structures is strictly prohibited for the safety of visitors.
  • Timing is Key: Plan your visit during the weekdays or outside school holidays for a quieter experience. After 2 pm tends to be the quietest period.
  • Comfortable Attire: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking, ensuring an enjoyable exploration of the aquarium.
  • Interactive Programs: Check for interactive programs and feeding sessions. These activities provide a deeper understanding of marine life.
  • Photography Moments: Capture memorable moments, but be mindful of aquarium rules on photography. Respect the guidelines for a seamless experience.
  • Snack and Hydration: Bring a water bottle and snacks, especially if you plan to spend an extended period exploring the exhibits.
  • Plan Your Route: Prioritize exhibits you wish to see most and plan your route accordingly, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
  • YHA Melbourne Hostel: Adorned with classic ornamental stone details, offers an informal and welcoming accommodation option, and is conveniently located only 0.3 km from the SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium.
  • Waterfront Melbourne Apartments: Located in a contemporary building complex along the Yarra River, this high-end apartment hotel combines modern amenities with a scenic riverside setting, and is 600 m from the SEA LIFE Melbourne location.
  • Best Western Melbourne City Hotel: This laid-back hotel in the Central Business District is conveniently situated within a 5-minute (300 m) walk from Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.
  • Crown Plaza Melbourne: Nestled in a semicircular building along the Yarra River, this contemporary hotel is just a minute's walk from a tram stop and a mere 350 meters from the aquarium.

Melbourne Cricket Ground: Experience the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, a mecca for sports enthusiasts, where you can witness thrilling cricket matches or take a guided tour to explore its rich history and architectural marvels.

IceBar Melbourne: For a unique and chilly adventure, head to IceBar Melbourne, where everything from the walls to the furniture is crafted from ice. Enjoy signature cocktails in a sub-zero setting, making it a cool escapade for visitors seeking a frosty and vibrant atmosphere.

Melbourne Skydeck: Soar to new heights at Melbourne Skydeck, offering panoramic views of the city skyline. Take in breathtaking sights from the observation deck, and for the daring, experience 'The Edge,' a glass cube extending from the building, providing a thrilling perspective of the city below.

Monopoly Dreams: Embark on a whimsical journey at Monopoly Dreams, where the classic board game comes to life. Dive into a world of entertainment, interactive exhibits, and photo-worthy installations, making it an ideal family-friendly attraction in the vicinity.

Frequently asked questions about visiting SEA LIFE Melbourne

SEA LIFE Melbourne is located on the banks of the Yarra River, just around the corner of Flinders Street and King Street. SEA LIFE Melbourne address is King Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia.