A family visitor guide to AQWA, the Aquarium of Western Australia at Hillarys Boat Harbour

AQWA at 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys Boat Harbour sits roughly 20 to 30 minutes north of Perth CBD and provides families with direct access to native marine species from across the state.

Location and access

The aquarium occupies a clear position at Hillarys Boat Harbour, making it a straightforward drive from central Perth for day trips. Families can reach the site without navigating complex inner-city routes, and the harbour setting adds nearby outdoor space before or after a visit.

Opening hours

The facility operates every day except Christmas Day. From February to November it welcomes visitors between 9am and 4pm, while December and January extend hours to 9am through 5pm. These consistent times allow families to plan around school holidays or weekend schedules without checking for unexpected closures.

Exhibits and displays

More than 45 unique exhibits focus on Western Australian marine life. The centrepiece remains the 98-metre Shipwreck Coast underwater tunnel set inside a 3-million-litre aquarium, where visitors move through a large viewing area that showcases fish and other species in a single continuous habitat. The layout keeps the experience contained yet varied enough for different age groups.

Entry fees

Standard admission lists at $34 for adults and $19 for children aged 3 to 15. Senior concession tickets for those 64 and older, along with spectator discounts, are offered on presentation of valid identification. These rates remain fixed and support repeat family visits without additional hidden costs for basic entry.

Practical planning

Parents can combine an AQWA visit with time at the surrounding boat harbour for meals or short walks. The single-site focus means families spend most of their time inside the exhibits rather than travelling between multiple locations. Checking the official AQWA website before travel confirms any minor variations in hours or ticket options on the day of arrival.