A walk-through aquarium at Mandalay Bay with more than 2,000 animals, from sharks and rays to sea turtles, piranhas and a rare golden crocodile, ending at a sunken-shipwreck tank.
Shark Reef Aquarium sits at the back of Mandalay Bay on the south Strip, and it is one of the few genuinely family-focused attractions on the Strip. It is home to more than 2,000 animals, and its main tank holds about 1.6 million gallons. The route takes you from reptile and jungle displays through freshwater and reef galleries to the headline Shipwreck exhibit, where sharks, rays and big fish circle a sunken ship, partly seen from a walk-through tunnel.
The animals are the draw, and the mix is broader than the name suggests. Alongside several shark species, you will see endangered sea turtles, giant rays, piranha and the rare golden crocodile, as well as smaller reef fish and invertebrates. The space is designed to feel like you are descending from a ruined temple into the sea, and the darker tunnel sections are a hit with kids. Signage is clear without being heavy, so parents can pick out a few facts as they go.
Shark Reef offers two extras for people who want more than a walk-through. Certified scuba divers can book a Dive with Sharks session in the Shipwreck exhibit. Animal Encounters let you help feed selected animals, including sea turtles, stingrays and sharks. Both have limited capacity and their own rules, so book them in advance rather than hoping to add them on the day.
Hours are generous
Typically 10am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 10pm on Friday and Saturday, with last entry an hour before closing. A standard visit takes 60 to 90 minutes. Children 3 and under go free. Mandalay Bay is at the far south end of the Strip, so combine the visit with something nearby.
Luxor and Excalibur are linked by a free tram, and the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is just beyond. It is a calm, air-conditioned option for a hot afternoon, and one of the best choices on the Strip for families with young children.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided route through themed galleries, from reptiles and freshwater species to reef tanks and the Shipwreck exhibit, with more than 2,000 animals overall. The main tank holds about 1.6 million gallons.
Best time
Midday or afternoon in summer, when the heat outside makes an air-conditioned visit appealing.
How long
60 to 90 minutes, longer with an animal encounter.
Tips
The Shipwreck exhibit with its sharks and rays, seen partly from a walk-through tunnel, is the headline. Endangered sea turtles, giant rays, piranha and the rare golden crocodile are other favourites. Certified divers can book Dive with Sharks in the Shipwreck exhibit, and Animal Encounters let guests help feed turtles, rays or sharks. Both are limited and should be booked ahead. Typically 10am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 10pm Friday and Saturday, with last admission one hour before closing. Shark Reef is at the back of Mandalay Bay, toward the convention area, so allow 10 minutes to walk from the casino entrance. The free tram links Mandalay Bay with Luxor and Excalibur. Self-parking is in the Mandalay Bay garage. Inside Mandalay Bay at the south end of the Strip. Take the free tram from Excalibur or Luxor if you are staying nearby. Dive with Sharks lets certified divers enter the Shipwreck tank, an unusual experience for a Strip resort.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with young kids, and anyone wanting a relaxed, air-conditioned afternoon on the south Strip.
- Families
- One of the most family-friendly attractions on the Strip. Children 3 and under are free, and the route is stroller-friendly. Kids love the tunnel and the crocodile.
- Couples
- A relaxed, air-conditioned afternoon on the south Strip.
- Pair with
- Pairs well with Madame Tussauds and FlyOver.
- Time needed
- 60 to 90 minutes, longer with an animal encounter.
Good questions
Where is Shark Reef Aquarium?+
Inside Mandalay Bay Resort at the south end of the Strip, 3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South. Follow the signs through the casino toward the convention area.
How many animals are at Shark Reef?+
More than 2,000, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, piranha and a rare golden crocodile. The main tank holds about 1.6 million gallons.
What are the opening hours?+
Typically 10am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 10pm Friday and Saturday. Last entry is one hour before closing.
How long does a visit take?+
About 60 to 90 minutes for the walk-through. Allow more if you book an animal encounter.
Can you dive with the sharks?+
Yes, if you are a certified scuba diver. The Dive with Sharks program takes place in the Shipwreck exhibit and must be booked in advance.
