Aquarium Bay
Dive into an underwater world at the Shark Reef Aquarium, featuring sharks, rays, Komodo dragons, and more within Mandalay Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Aquarium Bay
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into an underwater world at the Shark Reef Aquarium, featuring sharks, rays, Komodo dragons, and more within Mandalay Bay.
"A captivating journey through diverse marine and reptile life, a must-see at Mandalay Bay."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Shark Reef Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚶♂️ Allow Ample Time
The aquarium is part of a larger resort. Give yourself enough time to explore and find it without rushing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Shipwreck
Main Exhibit
Explore a sunken temple and shipwreck teeming with sharks and marine life. A truly immersive experience.
Jellyfish Exhibit
Near Entrance
Mesmerizing display of various jellyfish species, a tranquil and beautiful sight.
Komodo Dragons
Reptile Area
Get up close with these impressive and ancient reptiles, a unique terrestrial encounter.
Shark Tunnel
Main Exhibit
Walk through a clear tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays swimming overhead.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Shark Reef Aquarium
Navigating Mandalay Bay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Shark Reef Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚶♂️ Allow Ample Time
The aquarium is part of a larger resort. Give yourself enough time to explore and find it without rushing.
📸 Photography Tips
Use your phone's night mode for better shots in low light. Avoid flash to not disturb the animals.
💡 Check Feeding Times
Enhance your visit by checking the schedule for animal feeding demonstrations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Shark Reef Aquarium tickets in advance online.
🚶♂️ Allow Ample Time
The aquarium is part of a larger resort. Give yourself enough time to explore and find it without rushing.
📸 Photography Tips
Use your phone's night mode for better shots in low light. Avoid flash to not disturb the animals.
💡 Check Feeding Times
Enhance your visit by checking the schedule for animal feeding demonstrations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Shark Reef Aquarium for its impressive variety of marine life and unique exhibits like the shipwreck. The Komodo dragons and jellyfish displays are often highlighted as favorites. However, some find the ticket prices a bit high for the duration of the experience, and the aquarium's location within the large Mandalay Bay resort can be a bit of a trek.
"Lovely place and staff hotel been revamped and looks great highly recommend but is at the back of icmeler"
John Moore
"3rd year back at the club and the refurbishment is amazing. Lovely peaceful place. Rooms cleaned daily place is becoming a second home."
Paul
"very clean hotel, but dated but is being updated in november . manager sally was a truly lovely lady, nothing too much trouble and knew all her guests by name. staff were extremely helpful. only complaint was u couldn’t take a drink to the pool, u had to buy it from their bar via a card u had to put money on . pool areas were very clean and well kept . overall nice hotel"
Lisa King
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shark Reef Aquarium is located within the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. If you're staying at Mandalay Bay, follow the signs for the aquarium. If arriving from another hotel, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or the Las Vegas Monorail to the MGM Grand station and then walk or take a short taxi ride to Mandalay Bay.
Yes, Mandalay Bay offers self-parking and valet parking. Standard parking rates apply, and these can vary. It's advisable to check the Mandalay Bay website for the most current parking fees.
The Las Vegas Monorail has a station at the MGM Grand, which is a short walk or taxi ride from Mandalay Bay. This is a convenient option if you are traveling along the Strip.
Yes, the Shark Reef Aquarium is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Mandalay Bay website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Shark Reef Aquarium tickets directly at the aquarium's ticket counter or, for convenience and potential savings, buy them online through the official Mandalay Bay website.
Ticket prices can vary. General admission for adults is typically around $20-$25, with discounts for children and Nevada residents. It's recommended to check the official website for current pricing and any available packages or coupons.
Look for potential discounts through hotel packages, online travel sites, or specific promotions. Sometimes, Nevada residents can get a discount with valid ID.
While not always mandatory, booking a timed entry online can help you bypass ticket lines and ensure entry during busy periods. Check the booking process on the Mandalay Bay website.
Your ticket typically grants you access to all exhibits within the Shark Reef Aquarium, including the shipwreck, jellyfish, and Komodo dragons.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the immersive shipwreck exhibit with sharks swimming overhead, the mesmerizing jellyfish displays, and the impressive Komodo dragons. The shark tunnel is also a highlight.
Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the aquarium. This allows time to see all the exhibits and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
While primarily a viewing experience, the aquarium offers opportunities to learn about marine life through informative displays. Some areas might have touch tanks or educational presentations.
Absolutely! Children are fascinated by the diverse marine life and the unique exhibits. It's a great family-friendly attraction in Las Vegas.
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed, but flash photography is often discouraged to avoid disturbing the animals. Check for any specific signage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants directly inside the aquarium. However, Mandalay Bay Resort offers numerous dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining, located nearby.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the aquarium. There are concessions available for purchase within Mandalay Bay.
Mandalay Bay boasts a wide array of culinary choices, including American, Italian, Asian, and seafood restaurants, as well as quick-service options and bars.
📸 📸 Photography
To capture stunning photos, use a camera or phone with good low-light performance. Turn off your flash to avoid reflections and disturbing the marine life. Focus on capturing the movement and colors of the creatures.
The shipwreck exhibit offers dramatic backdrops, while the jellyfish displays provide ethereal beauty. The shark tunnel is also a popular spot for unique perspectives.
Experiment with a higher ISO and a wider aperture to let in more light. Consider using a tripod if allowed, or brace your camera against a stable surface for sharper images.
Selfie sticks and tripods may be restricted in certain areas to ensure the safety of exhibits and other visitors. It's best to check the aquarium's specific policies.
Patience is key! Wait for the sharks to swim closer to the glass. Try to capture them in motion for dynamic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds, making it easier for kids to see the exhibits. Pack light and be prepared for a bit of walking within the resort. While there are no extensive dining options inside the aquarium itself, Mandalay Bay offers plenty of family-friendly food choices nearby.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key photography tips: Avoid using flash, as it can create glare on the glass and disturb the animals. Instead, boost your ISO or use a wider aperture. The jellyfish exhibits are particularly stunning for abstract and colorful photography. Don't forget to capture the scale of the shipwreck exhibit for dramatic compositions.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
To save on food, consider eating at more casual dining spots within Mandalay Bay or exploring off-Strip options if you have transportation. The aquarium itself is a contained experience, so once you've paid admission, you can enjoy the exhibits without further spending, making it a good value for entertainment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Shark Reef Aquarium's Diverse Marine Life
Beyond the aquatic wonders, the aquarium also houses fascinating reptiles. The Komodo dragons are a major draw, offering a rare opportunity to see these powerful predators up close. Other reptiles, like various species of snakes and turtles, add to the biodiversity on display. The jellyfish exhibits are particularly mesmerizing, with ethereal displays of pulsating jellies in a variety of shapes and sizes, creating a tranquil and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Each exhibit is designed to educate and engage visitors, providing insights into the natural behaviors and habitats of these incredible creatures. The aquarium's commitment to conservation is evident in its displays, aiming to foster a greater appreciation for marine and reptile life. It's a journey through different environments, from the deep ocean to lush jungle habitats, all within the heart of Las Vegas.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Hours, and Best Times
The operating hours for the Shark Reef Aquarium can vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's crucial to consult the Mandalay Bay website for the most accurate and up-to-date information before you plan your trip. Generally, the aquarium opens in the morning and closes in the evening, but these times can shift. Considering the best time to visit can significantly enhance your experience. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more serene atmosphere for viewing the marine life. Late afternoons can also be a good option as some of the day-trippers may have departed.
When planning your visit, remember that the Shark Reef Aquarium is located within the expansive Mandalay Bay Resort. Allow yourself ample time not only to explore the aquarium itself but also to navigate the resort. This is particularly important if you are arriving from another hotel or using public transportation. Factor in travel time and the possibility of walking through the resort to reach the aquarium's entrance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit