Sure, a snorkel trip in the Maldives or a scuba dive off the coast of Australia is a dream — but what if we told you that some of the most jaw-dropping underwater experiences don't require a wetsuit at all? Around the world, aquariums have upped their game from simple fish tanks to immersive, high-tech marvels that feel more like oceanic theme parks. We're talking tunnel walkways surrounded by sharks, floor-to-ceiling tanks housing giant manta rays, and even rooftop gardens overlooking dolphin lagoons. Whether you're a marine life enthusiast or just need a break from museums and city traffic, these mind-blowing aquariums around the world are worth planning a trip around. And no, they're not just for kids.
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Here Are 7 Of The Most Incredible Aquariums Across The Globe:
1. Georgia Aquarium — Atlanta, USA
If size matters, Georgia Aquarium isn't playing around. It was the world's largest when it opened in 2005 and remains one of the biggest today, with over 11 million gallons of water and more than 100,000 animals. It's the only place outside Asia where you can see whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea. There's also a huge acrylic tunnel you can walk through, surrounded by hammerheads, manta rays and goliath groupers. Bonus points for their interactive programmes — yes, you can swim with the whale sharks if you're feeling brave.
2. S.E.A. Aquarium — Sentosa, Singapore
Photo: Courtesy of S.E.A. Aquarium
Tucked away on Singapore's Sentosa Island, the S.E.A. Aquarium is a sleek, glassy spectacle with over 100,000 marine animals representing more than 1,000 species. The star of the show? The Open Ocean Habitat, a panoramic viewing panel so massive it feels like you're staring into an underwater IMAX screen. Giant rays glide past as zebra sharks laze near the glass, while kids — and adults — press their noses up in awe. It's also part of Resorts World Sentosa, which means beach, spa and sushi bar are never far off.
3. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium — Okinawa, Japan
Photo: Courtesy of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
This one regularly makes the 'best aquariums in the world' list, and for good reason. Located in the tropical Okinawa Islands, Churaumi (which means 'beautiful ocean' in local dialect) houses one of the largest main tanks in the world-the Kuroshio Sea. Named after the powerful current that flows past Japan, this tank is home to whale sharks, manta rays and schools of swirling sardines, all visible through a mind-boggling 8.2-metre-high acrylic window. The rest of the aquarium focuses on marine life from the surrounding Pacific, including rare deep-sea creatures and coral reef exhibits.
4. L'Oceanografic — Valencia, Spain
Photo: Courtesy of L'Oceanografic
Part science centre, part architectural eye candy, L'Oceanografic is Europe's largest aquarium and a major highlight of Valencia's futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. It's split into sections that replicate different aquatic ecosystems, from the Arctic to the Red Sea. Highlights include a transparent tunnel that runs beneath a tank of sand tiger sharks, and a separate exhibit featuring beluga whales — rarely seen in captivity. Don't miss the outdoor dolphinarium, which hosts daily shows, and the underwater restaurant that's basically dinner with a view...of sea creatures.
5. Aquarium of Genoa — Genoa, Italy
Photo: Courtesy of Aquarium of Genoa
This one has a distinctly Mediterranean vibe. Opened in 1992 for the World Expo, Acquario di Genova is Italy's largest aquarium and still one of the best in Europe. It focuses heavily on conservation and education, and many of its 70+ tanks recreate actual marine habitats like the Ligurian Sea and the Amazon River. Penguins waddle on simulated Antarctic shores, while manatees glide past in serene slow motion. It's a great stop for families, especially if you're already soaking up the Italian Riviera.
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6. uShaka Sea World — Durban, South Africa
Photo: Courtesy of uShaka Sea World
Located right by the beach in sunny Durban, uShaka Sea World is more than just an aquarium — it's part of a full-blown marine theme park. The aquarium is built into a series of reclaimed cargo shipwrecks, which gives it a rusted, nautical charm. Inside, you'll find the usual suspects (sharks, rays, moray eels), but also some African-specific species like the ragged-tooth shark. There's also a penguin rookery and regular dolphin shows. Outside, the Wet 'n Wild water park and surf village make it a one-stop destination for ocean-loving families.
7. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo — Dubai, UAE
Photo: Courtesy of Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
It's Dubai — of course the aquarium is inside a shopping mall. But this isn't just any shopping mall. The Dubai Aquarium, located in the Dubai Mall, features a 10-million-litre tank with over 33,000 aquatic animals. Its centrepiece is a 48-metre-long walkthrough tunnel surrounded by rays and reef sharks. Upstairs, the Underwater Zoo lets you meet everything from otters to King Croc — a massive 750-kg saltwater crocodile who, frankly, looks like he runs the place. It's over-the-top and slightly surreal, but isn't that exactly what you came to Dubai for?
