A Complete Guide to Visiting Poema del Mar Aquarium in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Did you know that Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has a beautiful aquarium? It’s the Poema del Mar aquarium, close to the famous Playa de Las Canteras. This modern aquarium is not just a place to see sea creatures; it offers a fascinating and fun way to explore life under the sea. Whether you’re traveling with kids, curious about ocean life, or just want to escape the city for a while, Poema del Mar is a great spot to visit, especially on a rainy day in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
What is Poema del Mar?
Poema del Mar, which means Poem of the Sea, is a beautiful aquarium that opened in 2018. Located near Las Canteras Beach in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, it showcases the amazing marine life found in the waters of the Canary Islands and beyond. The aquarium is divided into three different areas, each designed to show you a different part of the ocean.
Three Main Zones to Explore
- The Tropical Zone
The first stop in the aquarium is the Tropical Zone. This part of the aquarium is full of bright colours and tropical fish. You’ll see amazing coral reefs, rays, sharks, and fish that live in warm, sunny waters. It’s like stepping into a vibrant underwater garden full of life. The tropical tanks are full of exotic creatures, and it’s a great place to learn about coral ecosystems and the creatures that call them home. - The Antarctic Zone
Next, you’ll be taken to the cold waters of the Antarctic. Here, you can see species that live in the freezing waters of the South Pole. This section features playful penguins, seals, and cold-water fish. The penguins are definitely a highlight. Watching them swim and slide around is fun for all ages. It’s a great way to see how life adapts to extreme environments. - The Deep Ocean Zone
Finally, Poema del Mar takes you to the mysterious depths of the ocean in the Deep Ocean Zone. This section feels very different from the others. The creatures here are strange and fascinating, like glowing jellyfish, giant fish, and creatures that live in the dark, cold waters deep under the sea. The highlight here is the huge tunnel that goes through the center of a giant tank, giving you the chance to walk through the water with sharks, rays, and schools of fish swimming all around you.
Learning and Conservation
Poema del Mar isn’t just about looking at fish. The aquarium helps visitors understand how important oceans are to the world and why we need to protect them. Throughout the aquarium, there are educational displays that explain how ocean ecosystems work and the challenges sea life faces, like pollution and climate change. Poema del Mar is also involved in marine conservation, so you’ll learn ways you can help protect the ocean.
The Giant Ocean Tank and Glass Tunnel
One of the most exciting things about Poema del Mar is the giant ocean tank. This tank is huge and houses many types of sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and turtles. The most thrilling part of this display is the glass tunnel that runs through the tank. As you walk through the tunnel, you’ll feel like you’re walking on the ocean floor with sharks and fish swimming above and around you. It’s an unforgettable experience and a great way to see the animals up close.
Practical Information
- Location: Poema del Mar is located next to Las Canteras Beach in the center of Las Palmas. The address is: Av. de Los Consignatarios, s/n, 35008, Las Palmas
- Opening Hours: The aquarium is open every day from 9.30 am to 5:30 pm, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule. It’s a good idea to check the website before visiting in case of changes.
- Tickets: Tickets are €27 for adults and €18,50 for children (ages 3-12).
- Accessibility: Poema del Mar is accessible to everyone. It’s wheelchair friendly and has services for visitors with disabilities. Families with young children can also visit, as strollers are welcome.
Why You Should Visit Poema del Mar
Poema del Mar is a great way to learn about the ocean, see amazing sea creatures, and spend time in a beautiful space. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or living in Las Palmas, it’s an experience you won’t forget. The aquarium is fun for people of all ages, and its interactive exhibits make it easy to learn about the importance of marine life.
If you’re looking for something to do while in Las Palmas, Poema del Mar is a must-see. It’s not just an aquarium; it’s a place to connect with the ocean and appreciate its beauty. So, grab your family or friends, head to Poema del Mar, and enjoy a journey through the sea!
