Located along the Dingle Marina in Dingle, Co. Kerry, Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, also known as Mara Beo, is Ireland’s largest aquarium and a premier family-friendly attraction on the Wild Atlantic Way. Established in 1996 to showcase native marine species, it has since expanded to include exotic aquatic life, offering an educational and engaging experience for visitors of all ages, rain or shine.
Key Attractions and Experiences:
- Diverse Marine Life: The aquarium houses a vast collection of aquatic species, including sand tiger sharks, gentoo and Humboldt penguins (each with unique wingbands and names like Babybell and Romany), Asian short-clawed otters, jellyfish, rays, turtles, octopuses, and tropical fish. Visitors can marvel at the shark tank, pet rays and skates in the touch pool, and walk through the sea tunnel where fish and small sharks swim overhead, creating an immersive underwater experience. The butterfly area adds a unique terrestrial element with tropical butterflies.
- Interactive and Educational Displays: The “Deep Atlantic” exhibit’s first marine immersive digital experience, highlights the biodiversity off Kerry’s coast, featuring over 40 shark species. Knowledgeable staff provide daily feedings and talks (e.g., otter, penguin, and shark feedings), sharing insights into marine life and conservation efforts, such as the aquarium’s work with the native Natterjack toad and lobster hatcheries. Electronic guides detail species and their habitats, augmenting the educational value.
- Wild Atlantic Virtual Experience (WAVE): This virtual dive under the sea offers an interactive exploration of the Dingle Peninsula’s marine environment and ancient sea culture, from pre-Christian times to the present. It’s a hit with both children and adults.
- Family-Friendly Features: The aquarium is ideal for families, with hands-on activities like the touch tank and a layout that allows visitors to come and go throughout the day to catch different feeding sessions. The facility is wheelchair-accessible with wide hallways, ramps, and two wheelchairs available by arrangement. A fully accessible restroom and private baby-changing facility are also provided. Service dogs are welcome, but other pets are not permitted.
- Amenities: A cozy café offers hot and cold drinks and light meals, while a well-stocked gift shop sells sea-themed souvenirs. The aquarium’s location across from Dingle Marina makes it easy to find, marked by a giant penguin statue. Visitors can combine their visit with nearby activities like dolphin tours, sea kayaking, or Blasket Island ferry trips.
- Conservation and Education: The aquarium emphasizes marine conservation, research, and wildlife rehabilitation. It offers work placements for transition-year and college students, guided tours, and the Curious Minds classroom lab with reduced student rates and free entry for teachers and assistants.
Visitors can expect a vibrant, educational, and fun experience lasting about 1–2 hours, with the flexibility to return for feeding sessions. Reviews praise the enthusiastic staff, clean facilities, and diverse exhibits, noting the aquarium’s impressive scale for a small town. The touch pool, sea tunnel, and penguin waddle are highlights, especially for children, while adults appreciate the conservation focus and informative talks. Tickets (as of pre-2025) cost €13.50 per adult, €8.75 per child, or €38 for two adults and two children, with a €44 option for two adults and four children. Online discounts are available if booked 12 hours in advance, and tickets allow all-day access. The aquarium is open daily from 10am to 6pm (last entry at 5pm), except for essential maintenance closures from December 12–26.
Additional Tips:
- For the latest 2025 updates, visitors should check www.dingle-oceanworld.ie or contact the aquarium at +353 (0)66 915 2111.
- Book tickets online in advance to save money and check the weekly feeding schedule to plan your visit.
- Combine with other Dingle attractions like the Blasket Centre or dolphin tours for a full day out.
- Dress for potential cool, damp weather, as Dingle’s coastal location can be breezy.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, as the aquarium is a popular stop on the Dingle Peninsula.
Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium offers a blend of marine discovery, family fun, and conservation education, with its immersive exhibits and scenic location making it a recommended visit. www.dingle-oceanworld.ie
