Nestled within the SM Seaside Complex at the South Road Properties in Cebu City, Cebu Ocean Park offers an awesome adventure perfect for families with young children and older relatives.
This massive ocean park (opened in August 2019) is brought to you by the same team behind Manila Ocean Park. Cebu Ocean Park is a quick and easy day trip from Cebu City, taking less than 30 minutes to reach. It is a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore the ocean’s wonders.
A Journey Through Diverse Ecosystems:
Our recent visit included a group of curious toddlers and sprightly seniors.
We started at the Jungle Trek, learning about the types of fish that live in rivers, lakes, and the vast ocean. Forget mermaids; these are real underwater celebrities! Giggles and gasps erupted as children and adults pressed their noses against the glass to marvel at the river giants. These colossal freshwater fish, native to the Amazon and African rivers, were like living legends; their every flick of the tail was a story waiting to be told.
Next, the Creepy Critters section sparked fascination and a few initial hesitations. We learned about snakes, their scales catching the light in beautiful patterns. Even the brightly colored dart frogs transformed from scary to intriguing as we discovered their importance in controlling insect populations.
Soaring above us was Lory Loft, a giant bird’s nest with vibrant lories and lorikeets. Stepping inside felt like entering a colorful dream. We observed their diet and social behavior, captivated by their playful antics.
Exploring the Wonders of the Ocean:
The ocean called, and we descended to the Seven Seas exhibit. Here, coral reefs, like underwater cities, pulsed with life. A dazzling array of fish and garden eels filled vibrant aquariums.
One unique exhibit allowed you to crawl into an aquarium teeming with tiny clownfish, feeling like you’ve truly entered their underwater world. (Remember, no flash photography here!) We learned about the delicate balance of these ecosystems and the importance of protecting our oceans.
Laughter filled the air as we entered the Bird Show amphitheater. Intelligent and agile macaws and cockatoos displayed their talents with tricks and audience participation. The show entertained us while highlighting the importance of environmental conservation.
A Breathtaking Underwater World:
The heart of the park, the Oceanarium, is the largest in the Philippines! Marvel at the Deep Tank Lagoon, featuring a staggering 3,500 cubic meters of seawater and a depth of 7.2 meters, the deepest in the country. Witness mesmerizing marine life, from graceful stingrays to awe-inspiring sharks, through a breathtaking 360-degree underwater viewing tunnel.
Don’t miss the chance to see divers swimming alongside these incredible creatures!
As the day ended, we wandered through the Main Tank Gallery. A sunken ship was a dramatic backdrop for a mesmerizing ballet of sea creatures. Sharks and stingrays glided gracefully, while schools of smaller fish shimmered like living jewels.
We sat mesmerized by the underwater world unfolding before us.
A Memorable Finale and Planning Your Visit:
Leaving Cebu Ocean Park wasn’t easy, but the gift shop offered a chance to take a piece of the magic home. Souvenirs, plush toys, and informative books reminded us of the incredible creatures we encountered. Our day at Cebu Ocean Park wasn’t just fun; it was an educational tour that fostered an appreciation for the ocean’s wonders and, hopefully, encouraged them to protect it.
Planning Your Adventure:
Inspired to create your own underwater adventure? Here’s some helpful information:
- Save with Klook: Score discounted tickets and skip the lines for weekdays or weekends through Klook.
- Family Fun: The park offers something for everyone, from interactive experiences to fascinating exhibits. Check the program schedule for exciting events like the Main Tank Feeding and the Bird Show.
- Safety First: Review Cebu Ocean Park’s safety protocols before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Essential Information:
- Open Days: Everyday
- Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Address: Cebu Ocean Park, SM Seaside Complex Mambaling, Cebu City, 6000
- Contact: (032) 888-5288, ext. 805, 804
- Email: info@cebuoceanpark.com
Don’t wait! Book your tickets today and get ready to discover the magic of Cebu Ocean Park, where sea wonder awaits everyone!