Blue Reef Aquarium
Newquay - sharks, tropical reef fish and an underwater ocean tunnel
Towan Promenade, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1DU | 01637 878134
Newquay's underwater world
Right on Newquay's Towan Promenade, overlooking the beach, Blue Reef Aquarium brings visitors face to face with hundreds of marine species without getting wet. The journey starts close to home, with displays exploring the rockpool and coastal creatures found around Cornwall's own shoreline, before moving further afield into warmer, more colourful waters.
The centrepiece is a walk-through underwater ocean tunnel, where sharks and rays glide overhead as visitors pass through a clear acrylic tube surrounded on all sides by the main display tank - a genuinely immersive way to see marine life up close. Beyond the tunnel, tropical displays showcase reef fish in a riot of colour, alongside seahorses, octopuses and other invertebrates that reward a slower look.
As an indoor attraction in the centre of Newquay, Blue Reef Aquarium is a dependable option whatever the Cornish weather is doing, and its seafront location means it slots easily into a day that also takes in the beach and harbour.
Opening Times
Open daily, year-round
Winter: weekdays 10am-4pm, weekends 10am-5pm
Summer hours are longer - check before visiting
Prices
Adult (13+): £16.15
Junior (3-12): £13.00
Under 3s: Free
Family (2 adults + 2 juniors): £56.30
Visitor Information
Parking
There is no dedicated aquarium car park - use one of Newquay's central public car parks, a short walk from Towan Promenade.
Weather-Proof
A fully indoor attraction, making it a reliable option on a wet Newquay day.
How Long to Allow
Most visitors spend around 1-1.5 hours exploring the displays and tunnel.
Things to Do Nearby
- Towan Beach & Newquay Harbour - the beach and working harbour right outside the aquarium's door.
- Newquay Zoo - Cornwall's only zoo, set in sub-tropical gardens a short drive across town.
- Fistral Beach - Newquay's famous surf beach, a short walk from the town centre.
- Lappa Valley Steam Railway - a narrow-gauge steam railway and family park at nearby St Newlyn East.
- Trenance Leisure Gardens - boating lake and gardens next to Newquay Zoo.
Nearby Places to Stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Official Website
For current opening times, prices and to book tickets, visit the official Blue Reef Aquarium website directly, or view a live copy below.
Visit bluereefaquarium.co.ukPage last updated: 21 August 2026