Two Oceans Aquarium

Before stepping beneath the sea-blue glow of the exhibits, a little planning can help make the day go smoothly. The Two Oceans Aquarium sits near Cape Town’s popular V&A Waterfront, so a trip can fit easily into sightseeing or shopping. Tickets can be bought online, though lines at the entrance are rarely very long outside of holidays. Most visitors spend about two hours exploring, though younger children may want longer to watch the penguins or try the touch pools. While any time is memorable, mornings tend to be quieter, offering more space to take in each exhibit at a relaxed pace.

• Best time to visit: Spring through fall for mild weather; weekday mornings for fewer crowds.
• How to get there: Reach the aquarium by car with paid parking nearby, by taxi, or use the MyCiTi bus service—V&A Waterfront is a popular, well-marked stop.
• Accessibility: The building is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly; elevators and wide paths support easy movement for families and seniors alike.
• Average visit duration: Plan for 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Every corner of the Two Oceans Aquarium offers something special. The eye is first drawn to the enormous predator tank, where big ragged-tooth sharks glide by. Children often cluster near the rockpool touch zone, eager to run their fingers through cool, shallow water. The graceful kelp forest, one of very few on public view anywhere, sways under shafts of light and holds a peaceful, dreamy mood. Exhibits weave stories of local culture as well—offering a deeper glimpse into the bonds between South Africans and the sea.

• Key sights or features: The 4-meter tall Kelp Forest Exhibit, predator tank with sharks, and African penguin colony.
• Unique experiences: Scheduled feedings, hands-on touch pools, and behind-the-scenes tours (book in advance).
• Photo-worthy locations: The walk-through tunnel under the I&J Ocean Exhibit gives a 180-degree underwater panorama for great photos.
• Cultural or historical facts: Regular signs explain the importance of the region for fishing communities and the ongoing need for conservation of South Africa’s marine life.