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SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast - We See Underwater Wonders in Mooloolaba LIFE Sunshine Coast
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Feb 10, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: 10 hours ago
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast - We See Underwater Wonders in Mooloolaba
Spending a day at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast is like stepping into an underwater world where sharks glide overhead, penguins dart through the water and jellyfish drift in glowing displays. Located near The Wharf at Mooloolaba, this much-loved attraction is open seven days a week from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm, with extended hours during Queensland school holidays. Our visit was packed with fascinating encounters, immersive exhibits and plenty of moments that made us stop, stare and smile.
The highlights of our visit include the Ocean Tunnel, Seahorse Kingdom, the Little Blue Penguins, the Coastal Wreck Exhibit, Seal Island, the Tidal Touch Pool, and Jellyfish Kingdom.
Walking Beneath the Sea in the Ocean Tunnel
One of the highlights of the day was wandering through the 80-metre-long Ocean Tunnel, an experience that instantly draws you into the world beneath the waves. As you stroll through the tunnel, sea life surrounds you on all sides, creating the feeling of walking along the ocean floor.
The tunnel is divided into three distinct zones. In the Shark Shipwreck section, we watched several species of sharks, including Grey Nurse and Grey Reef Sharks, glide effortlessly above us, alongside enormous stingrays. If you look closely, you may even spot a sea turtle cruising past, completely unfazed by the attention.
Moving into Coral Kingdom, the scene becomes a burst of colour as reef fish dart between coral formations. We were lucky enough to see divers in scuba gear feeding the fish, which added an extra layer of excitement. In the Bay of Rays, smooth stingrays and cownose rays floated gracefully through the water, sometimes passing so close it felt like you could reach out and touch them.
Seahorse Kingdom - Small Fascinting Creatures
Next, we explored Seahorse Kingdom, an Atlantis-themed exhibit and one of the largest seahorse displays in Australia. With more than 100 seahorses and seadragons spread across several tanks, it’s easy to lose track of time watching their delicate movements and intricate behaviours. From their gentle drifting to their clever camouflage, this exhibit offers a quiet but captivating moment within the aquarium.
Meeting the Little Blue Penguins
The Little Blue Penguins quickly became a favourite. As the smallest penguin species in the world, they are endlessly entertaining to watch. We enjoyed seeing them waddle about on land before diving effortlessly into the water. A lower-level viewing area lets you watch them swimming beneath the surface, where their speed and agility really shine.
Australia’s Coastal Life and Seal Island
The Coastal Wreck exhibit showcases a wide variety of animals found in Australia’s coastal waters. Lionfish, eels and brightly coloured tropical fish swim among hard and soft corals, creating a scene that feels both wild and beautiful.
From there, we headed to Seal Island, where the playful seals put on a lively display. The daily presentation is both entertaining and informative, sharing insights into seal behaviour, habitats and the dangers of ocean plastics. At Lower Seal Island, we were able to watch the seals underwater, where their grace and agility are on full display.
Hands-On Fun at the Tidal Touch Pool
The Tidal Touch Pool is where the experience becomes interactive. Rays glide through the water nearby, and with guidance from the education team, visitors can gently touch sea stars and sea cucumbers. It’s a hands-on moment that’s especially engaging and a great way to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
Mesmerised in Jellyfish Kingdom
Our visit finished in the softly lit Jellyfish Kingdom, where delicate jellyfish float and pulse through the water under changing coloured lights. These ancient creatures, which existed long before the dinosaurs, move with an almost hypnotic grace. It’s a calming and visually stunning way to end the journey through the aquarium.
Why SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Is Worth a Visit
Welcoming more than ten million visitors each year, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast does far more than showcase marine life. It plays an important role in protecting Australia’s unique aquatic animals, raising awareness of marine conservation issues and inspiring visitors to care for the oceans. From immersive tunnels and playful penguins to hands-on exhibits and powerful conservation messages, a day here is both entertaining and meaningful — a must-do experience when visiting Mooloolaba and the Sunshine Coast.
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