Palma Aquarium: A Deep Dive into Mallorca’s Marine World
When you think of Mallorca, sun, beaches, and vibrant nightlife might come to mind first. But if you’re craving a different kind of adventure—one that takes you beneath the waves—the Palma Aquarium offers an engaging day out for all ages. Located in Palma, this marine park is accessible for around $39 per person and can be visited with a valid one-day ticket. The experience typically begins around 9:30 AM and closes at 6:30 PM, making it easy to plan a relaxing day with plenty of time to explore.
What makes this aquarium especially appealing? First, we love the Big Blue Shark Tank, one of the deepest in Europe, which offers a real thrill for shark enthusiasts and curious families alike. Second, the largest exhibition of living corals in the world is a mesmerizing display that beautifully showcases the delicate and vibrant ecosystems of the ocean. These features demonstrate that Palma Aquarium is more than just a place to look at fish; it’s about understanding and appreciating the marine environment.
One consideration worth noting is the popularity of the venue, which can mean some busy periods, especially during peak season. The good news is that pre-booking your tickets—like through this tour—helps you skip long lines. Also, if visiting with children, be prepared for some areas to be busy, but the outdoor water play zone and indoor playground help keep little ones happily occupied.
This experience is best suited for families, marine life enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a mix of education and entertainment. Whether you’re traveling with kids eager to see turtles and stingrays or adults interested in the coral exhibits and shark feedings, Palma Aquarium offers something for all.
Key Points
- Deep Shark Tank: Home to some of the deepest in Europe, a must-see highlight.
- Coral Exhibits: The largest collection of live corals worldwide, perfect for underwater nature lovers.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Water play zones and interactive exhibits keep kids entertained.
- Daily Feedings: Watch sharks, rays, turtles, and piranhas being fed—an engaging educational moment.
- Optional 3D Cinema: The Aquadome offers a virtual swimming experience with whales, adding an extra layer of fun.
- Convenience & Flexibility: Skip lines with pre-booked tickets, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
A Thorough Look at Palma Aquarium
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Location and Accessibility
Situated in Palma de Mallorca’s Carrer de Manuela de los Herreros, the aquarium is easy to reach, especially if you’re based in Palma city center. The ticket includes skip-the-line access, which is a significant advantage during busy days, and the facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
What’s Included?
Your ticket grants entry into the expansive marine park, where you’ll explore eight different habitats, each representing a different environment—Mediterranean, Tropical, Jungle, and Medusarium among them. If you opt for the 3D Cinema Aquadome, you’ll enjoy a short, immersive film swimming with whales—an experience many reviews describe as spectacular.
The Highlights and What You’ll See
The Big Blue is undoubtedly the star attraction, with its impressive size and the chance to see sharks gliding past. Many visitors, like John, found it “definitely recommend[ed]” because of the sheer scope and quality of the exhibit. The coral reef display is notable not just for its size but for the diversity of living corals, providing a vibrant, colorful look into one of the ocean’s most complex ecosystems.
For families, the park offers interactive activities and feeding demonstrations several times a day, which are both educational and fun. Watching the feeding of sharks, rays, and turtles is particularly popular—an opportunity to see these creatures up close and learn about their behaviors.
More Great Tours NearbyThe 3D Cinema Experience
The Aquadome offers a virtual experience where you can feel as if you’re swimming alongside whales and dolphins without leaving your seat. Visitors rave about it—one reviewer mentions it was “spectacular” and “fantastic,” adding a memorable touch to the visit that appeals especially to those interested in virtual reality or marine conservation.
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Visitor Experience and Reviews
Based on over 2,280 reviews, Palma Aquarium maintains a solid 4.5-star rating. Many praise the knowledgeable staff, who enhance the experience with informative talks and demonstrations. Visitors often highlight the clean environment, the variety of sea life, and the reasonable prices for refreshments.
Several reviews note how well-maintained the enclosures are and the importance of animal welfare—something the aquarium staff seems committed to, which is a big plus for ethically-minded travelers. The indoor and outdoor zones, including a splash park and climbing frame, make it suitable for a full day of exploration, especially with kids.
Practical Tips
- Visiting during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) can help avoid crowds.
- Be sure to check the feeding schedules—these are not only fun but enrich your understanding of marine animals.
- If bringing children, take advantage of the outdoor water play area and indoor playgrounds.
- Don’t forget your camera—there are plenty of photo opportunities, especially in the Jungle and Coral exhibits.
Value for Money
For $39, the ticket offers a full day of entertainment, education, and immersive experiences—making it a worthwhile choice, especially considering the included 3D cinema option. Skip-the-line access and the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance add to the value, giving you peace of mind that your plans can be flexible.
Who Should Visit Palma Aquarium?
This aquarium is ideal for families with kids, thanks to the engaging exhibits and playgrounds. It’s also perfect for marine enthusiasts eager to see rare coral displays and shark tanks. If you enjoy interactive experiences, the 3D cinema adds a special touch, and those interested in animal welfare will appreciate the care evident in the exhibits.
Travelers looking for a gap filler or a relaxing indoor activity away from the beaches will find this a fulfilling option. It’s especially useful if you want a break from Mallorca’s outdoor pursuits but still want to connect with the natural world beneath the sea.
Practical Information at a Glance
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, last entry at 5:00 PM.
- Price: $39 per person, including skip-the-line entry.
- Duration: Plan for at least 2-4 hours depending on interest level.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.
- Cancellation Policy: Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
- Meeting Point: Carrer de Manuela de los Herreros, 21, Palma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?
Booking ahead guarantees skip-the-line entry and helps avoid disappointment during busy days, especially in peak season.
Can I visit the aquarium with a wheelchair?
Yes, the facility is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the exhibits.
What are the opening hours?
It opens daily from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, with last admission at 5:00 PM.
Is there an option for a combined experience?
Yes, you can opt for the ticket that includes the 3D Cinema Aquadome, offering a virtual swimming experience with whales.
Are there food and drink options available on site?
Yes, refreshments are reasonably priced, and there are areas to sit and relax during your visit.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids love the outdoor water zones, interactive exhibits, and the chance to see sea creatures closely. Many reviews highlight how well it caters to families.
What makes the Big Blue shark tank special?
It’s one of the deepest in Europe, providing an impressive view of sharks and other large fish, making it a highlight for many visitors.
In essence, Palma Aquarium offers a well-rounded and memorable look into marine life—perfect for a day of family fun, educational discovery, or just a break from the sunbathing. The combination of impressive tanks, interactive demonstrations, and immersive cinema makes it a standout attraction in Mallorca. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or traveling with kids, this experience provides good value, engaging sights, and a chance to connect with the ocean’s wonders in a controlled, caring environment.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Aquariums in Mallorca
More Tickets in Mallorca
- Mallorca: Palma Aquarium Tickets with Transfer
- Costa d’en Blanes: Entry Ticket for Marineland Mallorca
- Sóller: Jardines de Alfabia Entrance Ticket
- Palma: Cathedral of Mallorca Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
- Palma de Mallorca: Palma Jump Trampoline Park Entry Ticket
- From Mallorca: Aqualand and Arenal Tickets and Transfer
More Tour Reviews in Mallorca
- Palma de Mallorca: City Walking Tour with The Cathedral
- From Palma: Serra Tramuntana and Lluc Monastery Guided Tour
- Mallorca: Drach and Hams Caves, and Porto Cristo Day Tour
- Mallorca: Market Visit and Traditional Cooking Workshop
- Andratx: Guided Jet Ski Tour with Dragonera Island Visit
- Mallorca: Palma Aquarium Tickets with Transfer
More Mallorca experiences we've covered
- Palma de Mallorca: City Walking Tour with The Cathedral
- From Palma: Serra Tramuntana and Lluc Monastery Guided Tour
- Mallorca: Drach and Hams Caves, and Porto Cristo Day Tour
- Mallorca: Market Visit and Traditional Cooking Workshop
- Andratx: Guided Jet Ski Tour with Dragonera Island Visit
- Mallorca: Palma Aquarium Tickets with Transfer
- Alcudia: Self-Guided Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour
- Costa d’en Blanes: Entry Ticket for Marineland Mallorca
- Mallorca: Private Full-Day Cruise on a Luxury Speedboat
- 4h Private boat tour north coast of Mallorca
- Cala Ratjada: Afternoon Boat Trips with drinks and snacks
- Sóller: Jardines de Alfabia Entrance Ticket