The Oceanarium sits right on the seafront at the foot of the pier, and is Bournemouth’s aquarium a compact indoor attraction that takes you on a journey through the world’s waters without leaving the coast. It’s a reliable favourite for families and an easy answer to a rainy Dorset afternoon.
What you’ll see
Themed habitats lead you from the local waters of Poole Bay out to the Amazon rainforest, the icy Antarctic and the vivid coral of the Great Barrier Reef. A walk-through tunnel puts you eye-to-eye with the residents, and a full timetable of daily talks and feeding sessions helps bring each zone to life.
Visiting
The Oceanarium is step-free throughout, with a café, gift shop and baby-changing facilities. Allow one to two hours. Tickets start from around £13, and booking online ahead of your visit usually saves both money and time in the summer queues.
Nearby
You’re a moment from Bournemouth Pier and the beach, with the Lower Gardens stretching back up towards the town centre.
