Information
Landmark: Underwater World PattayaCity: Pattaya
Country: Thailand
Continent: Asia
Underwater World Pattaya is a modern aquarium featuring a 100-meter-long underwater tunnel, where visitors can observe sharks, stingrays, colorful coral fish, and other marine life up close. It is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Pattaya, offering a mix of education, entertainment, and interactive experiences.
Overview of Underwater World Pattaya
- Location: South Pattaya, along Sukhumvit Road
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM)
- Entrance Fee:
- Adults: Around 500 THB
- Children (90–130 cm): Around 300 THB
- Kids under 90 cm: Free entry
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds
Opened in 2003, Underwater World Pattaya is the first modern aquarium in Thailand and features more than 5,000 marine animals from over 500 species.
What to See and Do
The aquarium is divided into several themed zones, each showcasing different types of aquatic life.
1. Touch Pool Zone
- A hands-on experience where visitors can touch and interact with marine creatures.
- Features starfish, sea cucumbers, small rays, and bamboo sharks.
- Great for kids who love to explore marine life up close.
2. Coral Reef Zone
- Home to colorful tropical fish like clownfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish.
- Features beautiful artificial coral reefs, providing a vibrant underwater scene.
3. Open Ocean Zone
- The highlight of the aquarium, featuring a 100-meter-long acrylic tunnel.
- Offers a 360-degree view of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and large fish.
- Visitors can see sand tiger sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and giant groupers swimming overhead.
4. Giant of Siam Zone
- Showcases large freshwater species from Thailand’s rivers and lakes.
- Includes giant catfish, freshwater stingrays, and arapaima (one of the world’s largest freshwater fish).
5. Jellyfish Zone
- Features a mesmerizing jellyfish display with colorful lights.
- A great place for photography and relaxing while watching the graceful movement of jellyfish.
6. Koi Fish Feeding Zone
- Visitors can feed Japanese koi fish in a shallow pond.
- Special food is available for purchase to hand-feed the koi.
Special Experiences
1. Shark & Stingray Feeding Shows
- Watch trained divers feed sharks, stingrays, and other large marine creatures inside the tunnel.
- Feeding times: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 3:30 PM.
2. Dive with Sharks
- For adventurous visitors, there’s an option to dive with sharks and rays inside the tank.
- Requires advance booking and is available for certified divers and beginners with training.
3. Fish Feeding Experiences
- Visitors can feed koi fish, turtles, and other marine species in designated areas.
- A fun activity, especially for kids and families.
Nearby Attractions
- Pattaya Floating Market – A traditional Thai-style market on water, selling souvenirs and street food.
- Pattaya Dolphin World – A dolphin show and interactive experience for families.
- Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark – A water park with themed slides and attractions.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early – To enjoy the attractions before the crowds.
- Check feeding times – Plan your visit around the shark and stingray feeding shows.
- Bring a camera – There are many great photo opportunities inside the aquarium.
- Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking through different zones and the 100-meter tunnel.
Conclusion
Underwater World Pattaya is a must-visit attraction for marine life lovers, offering a mix of educational and interactive experiences. With its impressive underwater tunnel, hands-on touch pools, and exciting feeding shows, it’s a fun and engaging destination for families, couples, and adventure seekers.