Bioluminescent jellyfish, kind-hearted manta rays, and zany clownfish are some of the highlights for those visiting the Institute of Marine Science (Bang Saen Aquarium). It is one of

Thailand’s major aquariums situated near the capital. It is operated by The Institute of Marine Science, Burapha University, Chonburi.

In March 2023, Burapha University came up with an imaginative idea to hold the graduation ceremony at the underworld of the aquarium. The story became a viral sensation. Come marvel at the amazing marine life in these three zones:

Come discover the marvels of aquatic life which are divided into 3 zones:

1.Saltwater Aquatic Animal Exhibition Zone: Get up close and personal with the saltwater marine animals in a closed-loop reef tank which is pumped with saltwater to create a space this is similar to their natural habitat

The aquarium offers a spectacular glimpse into life underwater such as sea turtles swimming gracefully in the water, while a giant grouper swims contentedly. The corners of the tank are teeming with colorful jellyfish, with light streaming through the transparent glass wall where they light up with iridescent colors dancing around, creating a feeling of being transported to the future akin to the TeamLab’s light show exhibition in Japan.

Be amazed by the majesty of the underwater world, where schools of fish in various hues swim and play amidst the vibrant coral reef. Orange and white clownfish, a favorite among the children, can be seen swimming around.

Apart from the small fishes, there are also deep sea creatures that live below 1,000-2,000 meters under the water. It is a rarity to see these fish in real life but here at the aquarium, we can get up close and personal to the likes of giant groupers and giant manta rays. A Light & Sound system is used to enhance the learning experience and turn it into a fun activity. Multimedia is also used to encourage participation, such as projecting images of sea waves on the floor while playing the sound of crashing waves. This is a spacious area for children to have fun and unleash their imagination.

2. Marine Science Museum Zone: Explore the four exhibitions in this section. The “Life in the Marine Kingdom'' exhibition provides knowledge about small marine creatures that play an integral role in the food chain of the sea, such as plankton, algae, and seagrass, and seafoam. The “Marine Ecosystems” exhibition is where visitors can learn about families of plants and sea creatures that coexist in the different marine ecosystems. The “Significance of the Sea to Humans” exhibition underlines the important relationship between humans and the sea, including how we rely on it for food, work, fishing tools, old and current trade routes, as well as excavating and studying underwater artifacts. This zone also features the “Shellfish and its Evolution” exhibition which provides knowledge about each group of shellfish, and the evolution of shellfish. Visitors can also marvel at the unusual shapes of shellfish found in different parts of the world.

3. The World Beneath the Sea Learning Center: A favorite among marine life enthusiasts. We start at the check-in point at the front of the building. We are then led into the building like a school of fish into the center before encountering various marine creatures at the reception hall. The highlight is the school of fish in the cylinder tank and the amazing world of colorful sea creatures. You can learn about the nature of the marine animals by sliding through the big tank, which is 13 meters deep, 37 meters long, and holds up to 4,700 cubic meters of water. You can learn about the life of these creatures at the Big Tank, which is 13 meters deep, 37 meters long, and holds up to 4,700 cubic meters of water. It showcases the various species of fish that live together as a school. It is another captivating zone that makes us feel close to the aquatic animals that are just beyond the glass barrier.

If you plan your travels well, it is recommended to take part in the manta ray feeding activity at 2:00 P.M. The activity is limited to 20 visitors on weekdays and 25 on weekends. You will get to feed a spotted eagle ray, also known as “The bird of the sea”, due to its curved fins that resemble a bird's wings. It is a majestic and rare creature that is at risk of extinction.

The spotted eagle ray eats cockles. You have to extend the cockle to its mouth and the ray will suck it in. When it is comfortable enough, you can pet the manta ray. It has a unique and slippery texture, truly a once in lifetime experience to get close to these majestic creatures.

Come and learn about the life of aquatic creatures to fully grasp the importance of marine life conservation.

Location:  Institute of Marine Science (Bang Saen Aquarium)

69 Long Had Bangsaen, Saen Suk, Mueang Chonburi, Chon Buri 20131

Opening hours: 9.00 hrs -16.00 hrs.

Admission fee:  Adult 80 baht, Children 40 baht

Travel Around

• Bangsaen Beach: After your visit to Bang Saen Aquarium, do not forget to visit Bang Saen Beach. Take the time to enjoy the sea breeze and chill out on beach chairs on one of the Chon Buri’s most popular beaches.
• Nong Mon Market:  Visit the market to pick up gifts and souvenirs such as an array of dried seafood, chili pastes and  freshly grilled Khao Lam, a delicious sweet sticky rice snack.