Oceanarium in the Republic of Cyprus

Protaras Ocean Aquarium is the only oceanarium in the Republic of Cyprus and one of the most popular family attractions on the island’s eastern coast. The complex is located in the Kapparis area between Protaras and Paralimni and combines aquariums with marine life, a tropical garden, and an open area with animals. Here you can see more than 1,000 species of marine and freshwater creatures, as well as penguins, crocodiles, turtles, exotic birds, and other animals.

• About the oceanarium
• Which animals can be seen
• Opening hours and ticket prices
• How to get there
• Are there other oceanariums in Cyprus
• Frequently asked questions

About the oceanarium

Protaras Ocean Aquarium has been operating for more than twenty years and remains the only full-scale oceanarium in the Republic of Cyprus. Despite its name, the complex combines a classic oceanarium, a small zoo, and a tropical park covering an area of about 12,500 m².

The main exhibition is dedicated to marine and freshwater ecosystems from different regions of the world. It features residents of the Mediterranean Sea, tropical fish, freshwater species, as well as reptiles and birds. For children, there are open areas and walking paths throughout the complex.

Which animals can be seen

The oceanarium’s collection is constantly being updated. Among the most popular residents are:

• piranhas;
• stingrays;
• sea turtles;
• crocodiles;
• penguins;
• tropical fish;
• exotic birds;
• freshwater fish species;
• water turtles.

Visitors especially enjoy the open enclosures with penguins and crocodiles, which are rarely found in similar complexes in the Mediterranean.
Official website of the oceanarium

Opening hours and ticket prices

Last admission is usually one hour before closing. During the high season, the complex opens daily at 10:00.

Free parking is available for visitors on the premises.

How to get there

The oceanarium is located at:

Cavo Greco Avenue 19, Kapparis, Protaras 5318

The complex is located before the Ayia Triada roundabout between Protaras and Paralimni. You can get there by car or public transport. Bus routes 101, 102, and 103 pass nearby.

Location

Are there other oceanariums in Cyprus

Today, Protaras Ocean Aquarium remains the only full-scale oceanarium in the Republic of Cyprus. Projects for marine centers and aquariums in other cities appear from time to time, but for visitors, only the oceanarium in Protaras is currently available.

If you are interested in animals and marine life, you can also visit:

• Pafos Zoo in Paphos - article;
• Camel Рark- article;
• Limassol Zoo - location;
• Reptile & Amphibian Park - location;
• Melios Zoo in the Nicosia district -location.

However, these facilities are classified as zoos and are not oceanariums.

If you are planning a route to see the main sights of the Republic of Cyprus and want to travel without relying on a taxi, it is convenient to compare car rental options in advance through Localrent. It is also worth thinking ahead about basic everyday needs. Travel medical insurance can be arranged before departure, for example through Tripinsurance, and for navigation and communication on the road it is convenient to connect a travel eSIM in advance, for example through Drimsim.

Frequently asked questions

How much time does a visit to the oceanarium take?

Most visitors spend from one to three hours here, depending on their interest in the exhibits and in walking around the grounds.

Is the oceanarium suitable for children?

Yes. It is one of the most popular family attractions on the eastern coast of the Republic of Cyprus.

Is there parking?

Yes, free parking is available for visitors.

Can you visit the oceanarium in summer?

Yes. The complex is open year-round, including the summer season. During the high season, it is recommended to arrive in the morning before there are many visitors.