Poema del Mar is the aquarium of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, built at Sanapú Dock on the harbour front, beside the El Muelle shopping centre and a short walk from the city’s port. Inside, the displays take you from the Atlantic around the Canary Islands to reefs, rivers and ocean habitats from other parts of the world, in all thirty-five ecosystems. Sharks and large fish are the stars, and keeper feedings are among the highlights. The aquarium is open every day, so it works on any day of the trip, and it is a particularly useful choice for a day of mixed weather or a rainy interval. Many visitors combine it with the old town and the city beach. The ticket we link to is a skip-the-line entry ticket, and the aquarium is among the best-reviewed attractions on the island.
How it works
Choose your date online and show the voucher on your phone at the entrance. The skip-the-line ticket saves time at the ticket desk, which can be busy in the school holidays and on wet days. The aquarium is open every day from half past nine until half past five. Check the page for any change to hours on holidays.
What to expect
A self-guided visit of around two hours, depending on how long you linger at the large tanks and the shark feeding. The route leads through galleries themed on different seas and habitats, including the creatures of the Canary Islands that you might otherwise only glimpse while snorkelling or on a boat. The aquarium is on the harbour front, with the port on one side and shopping and cafés on the other. If you need step-free access, check the details before you go.
Making the most of it
Arrive at opening time or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest hours, and check the timing of feedings on the day. The aquarium makes a good pair with a walk in Vegueta or a few hours at Las Canteras beach. If you are visiting from the south, it fits well into a day in the capital.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided visit through themed galleries of marine habitats, with large tanks, sharks and keeper feedings.
Best time
Opening time or the later afternoon, and on a cloudy or wet day when the beach is less appealing.
How long
Plan for two to three hours, longer if you want to see the shark feeding.
Tips
Buy a dated ticket in advance, check feeding times at the entrance and keep the harbour front for a coffee afterwards.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and anyone who wants a good indoor activity in the capital.
- Families
- Very good for children of all ages, with large tanks and feedings that keep them engaged.
- Couples
- A relaxed couple of hours, followed by a walk on the harbour front or a drink in town.
- Pair with
- Vegueta old town and Las Canteras beach for a full day in Las Palmas.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
What are the opening hours of Poema del Mar?+
The aquarium is open every day from half past nine until half past five. Check the ticket page for any changes on holidays.
How long do you need at Poema del Mar?+
Allow two to three hours for a relaxed visit. Add time if you want to see the shark feeding.
Where is Poema del Mar?+
It is at Sanapú Dock on the harbour front of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, close to the El Muelle shopping centre. It is easy to reach by taxi or bus from the city centre.
Is Poema del Mar good for children?+
Yes, it is one of the best family activities in Las Palmas, with big tanks and feedings. It is also a useful choice on a rainy day.
Do I need to book Poema del Mar in advance?+
It is wise to buy a dated skip-the-line ticket online, especially in school holidays and on wet days when queues grow. Tickets are normally available for the next day.
