FAQs
If you have further questions please contact us
All of your frequently asked questions answered in one place
Visitor Information
Does AQWA have a seniors discount?
Yes, AQWA offers a Senior Concession Entry Ticket for those aged 64+. A valid seniors card must be shown to receive this concession.
Is AQWA open on public holidays?
Yes, AQWA is open on all Australian public holidays, except for Christmas Day. The only day of the year AQWA closes is 25 December (Christmas Day).
What time does AQWA open?
AQWA is open 9am-4pm Monday to Friday and 9am-5pm Saturday & Sunday during extended holiday trading. We’re open every day of the year, excluding Christmas Day. We are open public holidays, weekends, weekdays and school holidays.
Is there enough parking available?
During busy holiday periods parking does get full quickly. We recommend arriving early to ensure you get a parking bay.
Do I need to pay for parking?
All parking is FREE for 4 hours at Hillarys Boat Harbour and at AQWA
Admission Tickets & Entry Requirements
Can I buy a ticket at the Gate?
Yes. You are able to buy tickets in person at the gate, or online.
Do you offer discounts for Carers or Concessions?
If you are a carer, simply show your valid Companion Card to gain FREE entry with your paying client.
Concession card holders pay the discounted concession rate (see current price list).
Can I convert my entry ticket to an annual membership?
Definitely! The cost of the entry ticket already paid will be deducted from to the cost of the membership. Simply return to Reception after your visit to upgrade, or call 9447 7500 or email us bookings@aqwa.com.au within 24 hours and quote your order number so we can confirm your check-in details.
I ordered tickets online but didn’t receive the confirmation email.
Please check your junk mail as the confirmation may have been sent there.
If not, please ring us (08) 9447 7500 or email bookings@aqwa.com.au and we can resend them.
Can I get a refund on my entry tickets?
If you are unable to visit we are more than happy to refund your ticket if you contact us before its expiry. We can also convert your ticket to an eGift voucher which is valid for 3 years and is transferable.
How long is my entry ticket valid for?
Your entry ticket is valid from 9am to 4pm, or 9am-5pm Saturday & Sunday during extended summer trading, on the day of redemption. You are able to leave and come back throughout the day, as long as you have your ticket with you.
Accessibility at AQWA
I use a wheelchair or mobility aid. What else should I know, to make my visit as enjoyable as possible?
A note on the Shipwreck Coast Tunnel: the tunnel was built in 1987 and unfortunately was not designed with larger, modern wheelchairs and mobility aids in mind. If you are using a wheelchair, ride-on or walker, please note the following before entering the tunnel:
- The max. width of the moving walkway is 1.2m and the stationary platform is 1.1m.
- If your wheelchair is on the moving walkway, prepare to disembark early. A sign will alert you to the approaching exit. If possible, we recommend having someone assist in disembarking as there is a small lip/edge.
- Request assistance if you encounter difficulty getting on or off the moving walkway. The conveyor belt can be stopped by AQWA staff, or in an emergency, a person can push the red stop buttons located along the walkway.
- For carers assisting those with limited mobility, we recommend taking no more than 2 clients into the Shipwreck Coast at one time.
- In the unlikely case of a fire, the lift should not be used. Halfway around the Shipwreck Coast tunnel an emergency exit and holding area is located. This is a fire-safe door and wheelchair users can take refuge in this area. Emergency services have direct access to this area from an outside fire door and will attend to it immediately.
Stroller hire, pram parking, baby carriers and high chairs
AQWA offers strollers for hire that are light and compact, perfect for if your little one needs a bit of a break! Simply ask at reception upon arrival. If you have a large pram, you might find it easier to use a baby carrier, particularly in the Shipwreck Coast where there is a moving walkway. We have pram parking just near the Reception, so you can park up your pram and grab it again when you’re ready.
The Café has plenty of highchairs available for use.
Wheelchair hire
AQWA offers free wheelchair hire for use within our venue for those with limited mobility.
What washroom facilities are available if I have additional needs?
Ablution Block 1 is located near reception and contains 1 male and 1 female disabled cubicle, as well as baby change tables, within each washroom. Ablution Block 2 is located outside near the Touch Pool and these toilets are unisex disabled cubicles, 1 with baby change.
For larger wheelchairs, families and those requiring carer assistance, these are the best option.
I prefer a quiet, low-sensory environment. What should I know?
AQWA is busiest in the morning. If you prefer a quieter environment and more space to get around, we suggest visiting in the afternoon from 1.30pm. AQWA uses dim, feature lighting to allow our stunning displays to stand out, but no volatile/flashing lighting effects.
Please also note: WA school and public holidays are peak periods and AQWA becomes very busy and loud at these times. Although we do have a venue capacity and stop admissions once this is reached, these crowds might still be disconcerting for some.
Are all areas of AQWA accessible by wheelchair or pram?
AQWA has one area which unfortunately is not accessible by wheelchair: the great southern stairwell, which contains 4 small aquariums on the way down to the main Shipwreck Coast aquarium. This Shipwreck Coast aquarium features the underwater tunnel and is easily accessible by a brand new, spacious lift.
AQWA’s Coral Reef underwater gallery is accessible only by ramp.
AQWA’s Marina area is accessible only by an access gate and requires staff assistance; please request access at reception and they will guide you through.
Dive/Snorkel with Sharks
Can family and friends watch while I dive/snorkel with the sharks?
Definitely! Spectators will receive a discounted entry price. Our staff will let your friends/family know what time you will entering the water in the Underwater Tunnel so they can watch.
What time do I need to arrive?
Parking can be limited during our busy periods so we recommend arriving early just in case. You will need to be at Reception at least 20 minutes prior so we can process your booking and make sure you have completed the required paperwork emailed to you.
What is the minimum age to dive or snorkel with sharks?
Participants must be 14 years or older. Those under 18 require a parent or guardian’s permission, signed and witnessed at AQWA on the day.
Do I have to have a SCUBA license to dive with the sharks?
Yes. You are unable to SCUBA dive unless you have a valid license; PADI Open Water or equivalent. If you are not a qualified diver, you can do the Snorkel With Sharks instead.
What do I need to bring with me?
We will supply all required equipment however you will need to bring bathers and a towel.
AQWA Foundation
What should I do if I find a stranded turtle?
Turtle strandings are common between Perth & Bunbury. If a turtle has stranded, it requires help. Do not put it back in to the water. If it is safe to do so, carefully pick up the turtle and place it on a damp towel/jumper in a container or box. Do not fill with water. Do not cover the container or animal. Call AQWA immediately on (08) 9447 7500 or if after hours (4pm-9am) call Wildcare Helpline or WA Wildlife.