Manila Ocean Park Philippines: A Must-Visit Attraction
You’re in for an unforgettable experience at Manila Ocean Park Philippines, where you’ll immerse yourself in an underwater world teeming with 14,000 marine creatures from 277 species, including majestic sharks, playful penguins, and colourful fish.
As you stroll through the 220° curved walkway tunnel, you’ll get up close and personal with sharks and stingrays. But that’s not all, you’ll also encounter thrilling sea lion shows, interactive adventures, and even a penguin park facility. And when you need a break, enjoy the surrounding dining and shopping options. There’s so much more to explore get ready to uncover the secrets of Manila Ocean Park!
Key Takeaways
- Manila Ocean Park is home to 14,000 marine creatures from 277 species, offering an immersive underwater experience.
- The park features a 220° curved walkway tunnel for up-close encounters with sharks and stingrays.
- Interactive exhibits and shows, such as the Sea Lion Show and All-Star Bird Show, promote environmental conservation.
- Trails to Antarctica, the first penguin park facility in the Philippines, offers a unique encounter with live Humboldt penguins.
- The park offers a range of interactive activities, shows, and exhibits, making it a must-visit attraction for all ages.
Manila Ocean Park in the Philippines At A Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Manila Ocean Park, Luneta, Manila, Philippines |
| Opened | March 1, 2008 |
| Type | Oceanarium and Marine Theme Park |
| Owner | China Oceanis Philippines Inc. |
| Area | Approximately 8,000 square meters |
| Main Attractions | – Oceanarium: Features a 25-meter-long walkway tunnel with 220-degree curved acrylic walls. – Trails to Antarctica: Includes the Penguin Exhibit, Christmas Village, and Ice Slide. – Shark and Ray Encounter: Offers guests the chance to interact with rays and small sharks. – Fish Spa: Guests dip their feet in tanks where fish nibble on dead skin. – Birds of Prey Kingdom: Houses Brahminy Kites in an aviary setting. – All-Star Bird Show: A live bird show featuring various trained birds. – Symphony Evening Show: A musical fountain show with a blend of lights, water, and sound. – Jellies Exhibit: Features various species of jellyfish in a mesmerizing display. |
| Other Facilities | – Hotels: H2O Hotel is a marine-themed hotel integrated within the park. – Restaurants: Various dining options, including Makan Makan Asian Food Village. – Retail Shops: Souvenir shops and boutiques. |
| Educational Programs | – Field Trips: Educational tours for students. – Marine Life Camp: Interactive learning sessions about marine life and conservation. – Animal Encounter Programs: Hands-on educational programs with marine animals. |
| Special Events | – Birthday Parties: Customized birthday packages are available. – Corporate Events: Venues and packages for corporate meetings and events. – Weddings: Unique wedding packages with a marine theme. |
| Conservation Efforts | – Marine Life Rescue: Programs focused on rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals. – Coral Propagation: Efforts to propagate and conserve coral reefs. – Public Awareness: Campaigns to educate the public about marine conservation. |
| Operating Hours | Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Hours may vary for special events and holidays). |
| Ticket Prices | – General Admission: Online prices range from ₱680 to ₱3,300 depending on the package and promotions. In-person prices may vary. – Ticket Purchasing: Tickets can be bought online through the official website or accredited partners to avoid queues and ensure discounts – Discounts: Available for children, seniors, and group bookings. |
| Accessibility | – Wheelchair Access: Fully accessible for guests with disabilities. – Public Transport: Accessible via public transport including jeepneys, buses, and taxis. |
| Contact Information | – Website: www.manilaoceanpark.com – Phone Number: (+632) 7238-6188 and (+632) 8567-7777 – Email: inquiry@manilaoceanpark.com – Address: Manila Ocean Park is located at Luneta, Manila, behind Quirino Grandstand, Ermita, Manila 1000 |
| Additional Notes | – Seasonal Events: Various seasonal and holiday-themed events throughout the year. – Health & Safety: Regularly updated health and safety protocols, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. |
Explore the Ocean’s Wonders
Manila Ocean Park offers an immersive underwater experience showcasing 14,000 marine creatures from 277 species. Key features include:
- Oceanarium: Features a 220° curved walkway tunnel, allowing close encounters with sharks, stingrays, and diverse fish species.
- Marine Life Diversity: Home to indigenous sea creatures from the Philippines and Southeast Asia, providing a comprehensive view of regional marine ecosystems.
- Interactive Experiences: Offers hands-on activities that allow visitors to engage directly with marine life, enhancing learning through personal interaction.
- Sea Lion Show: Demonstrates the agility and intelligence of these marine mammals while educating visitors about conservation.
- Trails to Antarctica: The first penguin park facility in the Philippines, housing live Humboldt penguins in a naturalistic habitat.
- Educational Focus: All exhibits and shows are designed to educate visitors about marine life and the importance of ocean conservation.
This combination of diverse marine life, interactive experiences, and educational content makes Manila Ocean Park a unique destination for understanding and appreciating ocean ecosystems.
Meet the Marine Animals
Get ready to come face-to-face with the incredible marine animals that call Manila Ocean Park home, including colorful fish, majestic sharks, and playful penguins.
As you explore the oceanarium, you’ll discover over 14,000 indigenous sea creatures native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Take a stroll through the underwater tunnel, where you’ll be surrounded by sharks and stingrays gliding effortlessly above and around you.
Visit the penguin park facility, where you can observe live Humboldt penguins, also known as Antarctic penguins, up close.
The World of Creepy Crawlies exhibit is another must-see, highlighting the importance of insects, worms, spiders, bugs, and frogs in our ecosystem.
While you’re here, don’t miss the All-Star Bird Show, featuring talented birds performing tricks with an environmental message.
Manila Ocean Park is one of the world’s biggest public aquariums, offering an unforgettable experience that’s both entertaining and educational. By meeting these amazing marine animals, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s wonders and the importance of conservation.
Thrilling Shows and Exhibits
Thrilling Shows and Exhibits
Manila Ocean Park offers a spectacular array of shows and exhibits that will captivate visitors of all ages. These attractions not only entertain but also educate guests about marine life and conservation efforts.
All-Star Bird Show
Get ready to be amazed by the All-Star Bird Show, featuring talented macaws, cockatoos, and eagles. These magnificent birds perform impressive tricks while conveying important messages about environmental conservation. It’s a perfect blend of entertainment and education that will leave you in awe of nature’s winged wonders.
Sea Lion Show
Don’t miss the charming Sea Lion Show, where adorable South American sea lions showcase their agility, intelligence, and playful nature. As you watch these charismatic creatures perform, you’ll also learn valuable information about marine conservation and the importance of protecting sea lion habitats.
World of Creepy Crawlies
For those fascinated by the smaller creatures of our world, the World of Creepy Crawlies exhibit is a must-see. Here, you’ll discover the fascinating realm of insects, worms, spiders, bugs, and frogs. This exhibit highlights the crucial role these often-overlooked creatures play in our ecosystem.
Trails to Antarctica
Experience a slice of the Antarctic in the heart of Manila at Trails to Antarctica, the first penguin park facility in the Philippines. Get up close and personal with live Humboldt penguins in their naturalistic habitat. This unique exhibit offers a rare opportunity to observe these charismatic birds and learn about their conservation needs.
The Oceanarium
The crown jewel of Manila Ocean Park is undoubtedly the Oceanarium. Home to an astounding 14,000 marine creatures from 277 species, it offers a truly immersive underwater experience. The highlight is the 220° curved walkway tunnel, where you can marvel at sharks, rays, and a multitude of colourful fish swimming overhead and around you.
These thrilling shows and exhibits offer more than just entertainment – they provide unforgettable experiences that foster a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s wonders and the importance of marine conservation.
Whether you’re watching birds perform aerial feats, laughing at sea lion antics, or gazing in wonder at the underwater world, Manila Ocean Park’s attractions promise to leave you with lasting memories and a renewed commitment to protecting our planet’s precious ecosystems.
Fun and Interactive Activities
Manila Ocean Park offers a wide array of fun and interactive activities that allow visitors to engage with marine life in exciting and educational ways. These hands-on experiences cater to visitors of all ages, making the park a perfect destination for families, students, and marine enthusiasts alike.
Fish Spa
One of the most popular interactive experiences is the Fish Spa. Here, visitors can dip their feet into pools filled with small fish that gently nibble away dead skin cells. This unique and ticklish experience is both relaxing and rejuvenating.
Shark and Ray Encounter
For those seeking a thrill, the Shark and Ray Encounter provides an opportunity to get up close with these fascinating creatures. Under the guidance of trained professionals, visitors can wade in shallow water and interact with friendly sharks and rays, learning about their behaviour and importance in marine ecosystems.
Back of the House Tour
The Back of the House Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the park operates. Visitors can learn about water filtration systems, animal care routines, and conservation efforts, gaining a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into maintaining the park’s diverse marine life.
Mermaid Swimming Experience
For a touch of fantasy, the Mermaid Swimming Experience allows visitors to don a mermaid tail and swim in a specially designed pool. This activity is not only fun but also helps improve swimming skills and core strength.
Sea Lion Encounter
The Sea Lion Encounter provides an opportunity to meet these charismatic marine mammals up close. Visitors can learn about sea lion behaviour, participate in training sessions, and even get a sea lion kiss!
Aquanaut Experience
For the adventurous, the Aquanaut Experience offers a chance to walk underwater in a specially designed suit. This activity allows visitors to explore the oceanarium from within, getting an immersive view of the marine life.
These interactive activities not only provide entertainment but also foster a deeper connection with marine life and promote environmental awareness. By participating in these hands-on experiences, visitors can gain a greater understanding of the ocean’s wonders and the importance of marine conservation.
Dining and Shopping Options
After a fun-filled day of exploring the wonders of the ocean, refuel and indulge in a culinary adventure at one of the many dining options surrounding Manila Ocean Park. You’ll find a diverse range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. From international buffets to local Filipino cuisine, there’s something for everyone.
| Dining Options | Shopping Destinations |
|---|---|
| Spiral Buffet | SM Mall of Asia |
| Blackbird | Greenbelt Mall |
| Mesa Filipino Moderne | Divisoria Market |
Manila Ocean Park offers diverse dining options, including Vikings Luxury Buffet, Sky Deck View Bar, Mesa Filipino Moderne, and Blackbird.
For shopping, visit Ayala Center, Greenhills Shopping Center, or nearby malls. The area provides ample choices for meals and retail, catering to various preferences and budgets.
What Can I Expect to See at Rizal Park Philippines Compared to Manila Ocean Park Philippines?
When visiting Rizal Park Philippines, you can expect to see beautiful gardens, historical monuments, and the famous Rizal Monument. In contrast, Manila Ocean Park Philippines offers a diverse range of marine life, interactive exhibits, and thrilling shows. Each park offers a unique and memorable experience.
How to get to Manila Ocean Park
To get to Manila Ocean Park, follow these directions:
By Private Vehicle:
- From the South: Drive along Roxas Boulevard, turn left at T.M. Kalaw Street (near the US Embassy and Museo Pambata).
- From the North: Drive along Roxas Boulevard, and turn right before or after Luneta Park (Katigbak Drive or T.M. Kalaw Street).
- Using Maps: Use Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze and search for “Manila Ocean Park” to get specific directions.
Public Transportation:
- By Jeepney: Take a jeepney going to Luneta or Rizal Park, then walk towards Quirino Grandstand. The park is located behind the grandstand.
- By LRT: Take the LRT-1 and get off at the United Nations Avenue (UN Ave) Station. From there, it’s a short walk to Rizal Park, then head towards Quirino Grandstand.
Nearby Landmarks:
- Located behind Quirino Grandstand, near Rizal Park/Luneta Park.
- Other nearby landmarks include the US Embassy and Museo Pambata.
Note: Parking is available for guests at South Parking (near Harbor View) and North Parking (near Manila Hotel).
Conclusion
Manila Ocean Park offers a unique blend of entertainment and education, showcasing the wonders of marine life. With its diverse exhibits, interactive experiences, and conservation commitment, the park allows visitors of all ages to explore and appreciate the underwater world.
Whether you’re fascinated by sharks, penguins, or colourful tropical fish, Manila Ocean Park promises an unforgettable adventure that will deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems and their importance.
