Experience the wonder this festive season at the Two Oceans Aquarium

7 December, 2025 - Blog, Membership, Events, Experiences, Press Releases

Experience the wonder of our underwater world at the Two Oceans Aquarium this holiday season!

Marvel at sleek sharks, be mesmerised by gliding stingrays, or spot the elusive octopus. See Africa's only above-ground kelp forest and be enchanted by the glow of jellies, adorable seahorses, and the joyful antics of our beloved penguins. Every visit is guaranteed to create unique family memories.

With extended hours, afternoon discounts, and endless opportunities to explore, there's something for everyone. As an extra-special bonus, from 12 December 2025 to 21 January 2026, your entry ticket includes access to the stunning Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition.

Dive into the adventure - our world is waiting for you!

Buy online to skip the queues

Fabulously fishy festivities on offer

Feeding time fun

From 13 to 26 December 2025, spot the legendary Scuba Claus at daily feeding times!

Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Exhibit: Saturdays at 12h00
I&J Ocean Exhibit: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 12h00
Kelp Forest Exhibit: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 12h00

Explore the ocean for longer

From 20 December 2025 to 4 January 2025, the Aquarium will be open for longer - from 09h00 and closing only at 19h00 (excluding Christmas Day: 09h00 – 18h00)!

Our extended opening hours are perfect for those who would like to linger a little longer, miss the festive season traffic on the way out of town, or want to enjoy a cool early evening admiring the underwater world of the Aquarium.

Plenty of fun for little ones

The Children’s Play Centre is a favourite for a reason! Throughout the festive season, the Play Centre will offer a variety of fun, ocean-themed crafts for your little ones to enjoy and take home.

Stay for the daily puppet shows at 10h30, 13h30, and 15h30. Featuring iconic characters like Bruce the Shark and Tinks the Tortoise, the puppet shows are educational, interactive, and super fun.

Visit the Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition

We’re delighted to announce that the Two Oceans Aquarium will be hosting the internationally acclaimed Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition!

Presented by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain, Ocean Photographer of the Year aims to spotlight the awe-inspiring magic and growing vulnerability of our blue planet, while celebrating the photographers who help us see it more clearly. The competition forms part of the Blancpain Ocean Commitment, a global initiative built on three connected pillars: Inspiring people with the ocean’s beauty, supporting scientific research, and driving real conservation action, including the creation of marine protected areas worldwide.

This year’s collection is truly something special, comprising images of breathtaking wildlife encounters, striking fine-art compositions, and thoughtful reflections on humanity’s relationship with the ocean.

If you visit the Aquarium between 12 December 2025 and 21 January 2026, you’ll have a rare chance to experience this remarkable exhibition in person. Access is included in your Aquarium ticket, so make sure you don’t miss this world-class showcase.

Gift your loved ones with experiences

Looking for gifts that won't harm the planet? Ditch the festive season frenzy and discover ideal gifts for ocean-minded loved ones at the Aquarium. We've got something for everyone, ensuring cherished memories for years ahead - unlimited visits, scuba diving courses, and meeting with the too-cute rockhopper penguins!