A day at Asia’s newest marine destination: What to see, snap and do at Singapore Oceanarium

The new Sentosa marine experience is three times bigger than the former aquarium, with 22 immersive zones
Singapore Oceanarium
Photograph: Singapore’s Coast | Singapore Oceanarium
Time Out Singapore in partnership with Singapore Oceanarium
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Guess who’s back and three times bigger? The former aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa has undergone a major facelift and resurfaced as Singapore Oceanarium – now the latest must-visit destination in Asia. With 22 immersive zones and plenty of sea-riously cool things to see and do, it’s an exciting new experience you won’t want to miss. It blends cutting-edge marine science with immersive storytelling, powered by digital tech and purpose-driven design, all to spark love, knowledge, and real-world action for our oceans. 

Whether you’re going with kids, a date, or just yourself and a phone at 100 percent battery, here’s what to see, snap and do during a full-day adventure at Singapore Oceanarium.

New zones to check out

From shallow seas to the deep ocean and journeys through the past, present and future, Singapore Oceanarium takes you on an immersive voyage across two levels, with thoughtfully designed zones to explore along the way.

Among the highlights is Ocean Wonders, where one of the world’s largest kreisel habitats houses thousands of hypnotic moon jellies, all bred in-house as part of ongoing sustainability efforts. Watch them drift in graceful synchrony under an ethereal lightscape – think ocean’s version of a lava lamp.

In Ancient Waters, things take a prehistoric turn. Towering overhead is a suspended, life-sized replica of a Dunkleosteus, an extinct fish that lived more than 380 million years ago. You’ll also find fossils on display, paddlefish to marvel at, and evolutionary timelines brought to life with interactive exhibits and digital effects.

Closer to home, Singapore’s Coast celebrates the often-overlooked marine ecosystems in our own backyard, with archerfish, mudskippers and seahorses darting through mangrove-inspired habitats. Dip your hand into the discovery pool, where curious skunk cleaner shrimp may scuttle over to explore on their own terms – a gentle encounter that ensures their welfare comes first.

No visit is complete without pausing at Open Ocean, the Oceanarium’s crown jewel. This soaring viewing gallery, with its massive glass panel stretching across an entire wall, offers front-row seats to a slow-motion dance of manta rays, Indo-Pacific leopard sharks and schooling fish. Sit for five minutes or fifty – you’ll never see the same moment twice.

Instagram-worthy corners for deep-sea snaps

For an otherworldly photo op, head to Whale Fall and Seamount. Here, you’ll walk beneath a whale fall skeleton, reimagined as a deep-sea ecosystem that thrives on the remains of one fallen titan. You’ll also be surrounded by hydrothermal vents that simulate towering sea mounts. With an immersive projection show, soundscapes and unique marine creatures like the Japanese isopod, Deepsea Akaza prawn and Australian ghostshark, it’s a scene that captures the mystery and magic of the ocean’s hidden depths. 

Immersive programmes to try

Take your Oceanarium experience to new heights with Pier Adventure. This walking net experience is suspended over a replica of the Jewel of Muscat in the Spirit of Exploration zone, giving you a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the ancient ship and its surroundings. Time Out tip: book your tickets via the official Singapore Oceanarium app to enjoy free access to this zone until August 31.

Whether you’re fascinated by the pulsating grace of sea jellies or intrigued by coral propagation, the Animal Spotlight add-on guided tours bring you face to face with the people and animals leading the Oceanarium’s conservation work. There’s even a deep-sea-focused option called Ocean in Focus: Into the Abyss, where you’ll get to meet the ghostly, otherworldly creatures that dwell in complete darkness. 

For budding paleontologists or curious visitors, the Fossilist Workshop is a must. This hands-on session takes place in the Oceanarium’s Research and Learning Centre, a solar-powered green building that doubles as a real marine science hub. You’ll learn about fossil formation, dig for hidden relics, and even bring home your own find.

And if you’re ready to dive headfirst into the full experience, the Singapore Oceanarium Insider Experience offers an exclusive, all-access tour. You’ll shadow aquarists, visit back-of-house habitats, and learn how this enormous operation runs from day to day.

Snack and souvenir detours between habitats

Exploring the deep can work up an appetite. If you’re in Migrators, swing by Tide Deli for a quick refuel and browse the merchandise at Tidal Trove next door. For bites with a view, head to Ocean Bites in Open Ocean.

Craving a proper break? Head to Explorer’s Nook in the Spirit of Exploration, where marine-themed pastries and coffee offer a sweet reset. And don’t forget to pop into the Singapore Oceanarium Store, stocked with sustainable merch, ocean-inspired gifts and educational kits for curious minds.

Plan your visit

General admission starts at $42 for Singapore residents and $50 for international visitors, with discounts for children and seniors. Doors open at 10am, so it’s best to go early and beat the crowds. Set aside at least half a day to explore, though with so much to see, it’s worth stretching into a full-day outing, especially if you’re pairing it with other Resorts World Sentosa attractions. Download the official Singapore Oceanarium app to help you navigate the zones and unlock extra perks like priority lane access. Get your tickets now.

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