10 Largest Aquariums In The World (2026 Update)
Aquariums and oceanariums have surged in popularity as global interest in marine life conservation continues to grow. People are increasingly visiting these facilities to learn about marine ecosystems and get an up-close experience with some of the world’s most fascinating aquatic species.
Across the globe, aquariums generate substantial revenue, much of which is reinvested into research initiatives, animal care, and public education about ocean health and sustainability. From North America to Asia and Europe, millions are flocking to the largest and most renowned oceanariums, eager to witness marine life up close.
Several major facilities are at the forefront of the aquarium industry’s growth. Below, we present an updated list of the ten largest aquariums in the world for 2026.
10 Largest Aquariums in the World
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Chimelong Ocean Kingdom. Hengqin, China
Total Water Volume: 12.9 million gallons
Largest Tank: 5.99 million gallons
Annual Visitors: 11.7 millionThe world’s largest aquarium, located within China’s Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort, is renowned for its whale shark exhibit and holds multiple world records. The aquarium features the largest acrylic panel globally, measuring over 129 feet, along with an underwater viewing dome where visitors can observe whale sharks up to 33 feet long.
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom includes several themed areas representing various ocean ecosystems, drawing visitors from around the world.
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South East Asia Aquarium. Sentosa Island, Singapore
Total Water Volume: 12 million gallons
Largest Tank: 4.8 million gallons
Annual Visitors: 19.7 millionThe South East Asia Aquarium, or S.E.A. Aquarium, boasts the largest collection of manta rays globally and is part of Resorts World Sentosa’s Marine Life Park. With over 800 sea species, the aquarium features an open ocean tank that captivates visitors while promoting marine conservation through its Guardians of the S.E.A.A. initiative.
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Maui Ocean Center. Valencia, Spain
Total Water Volume: 11 million gallons
Largest Tank: 1.8 million gallons
Annual Visitors: 1.5 millionThe Oceanographic Oceanarium, known as L’Oceanogràfic, opened to the public in 2003 and has since become Europe’s largest aquarium. Its 35-meter underwater tunnel offers an immersive experience, allowing guests to observe a variety of marine life across different oceanic environments.
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Georgia Aquarium. Atlanta, United States
Total Water Volume: 10 million gallons
Largest Tank: 6.3 million gallons
Annual Visitors: 2.5 millionThe Georgia Aquarium is renowned for housing the world’s largest exhibit tank, holding over 6 million gallons of water. Home to more than 100,000 marine animals, including whale sharks, it offers diverse galleries and educational experiences, having generated significant revenue through charitable contributions.
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Moscow Oceanarium. Moscow, Russia
Total Water Volume: 6.6 million gallons
Largest Tank: 1 million gallons
Annual Visitors: undisclosedOpened in 2015, the Moscow Oceanarium features over 12,000 marine and freshwater animals across 80 tanks. Known for its engaging exhibits, including killer whales and dolphins, it also offers a unique shopping experience where visitors can purchase fish for home aquariums.
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The Seas With Nemo and Friends. Orlando, United States
Total Water Volume: 5.7 million gallons
Largest Tank: 5.7 million gallons
Annual Visitors: 12.4 millionThis aquarium at Walt Disney World Resort combines entertainment and education, allowing visitors to explore a massive saltwater tank while on a ride themed around Disney’s Finding Nemo. It’s an engaging way to learn about marine biology.
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Shedd Aquarium (AHEDD). Chicago, United States
Total Water Volume: 5 million gallons
Largest Tank: 2 million gallons
Annual Visitors: 2 millionAs one of the longest-operating indoor aquariums, the Shedd Aquarium has a rich history of showcasing a wide variety of sea creatures. It features numerous permanent exhibits and generates significant annual revenue, reflecting its popularity as a destination for marine enthusiasts.
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uShaka Marine World. Durban, South Africa
Total Water Volume: 4.6 million gallons
Largest Tank: 1 million
Annual Visitors: 790,433Opening in 2004, uShaka Marine World is Africa’s largest aquarium, housing over 10,000 marine species. Its unique design includes a series of underwater shipwrecks and offers various attractions, such as a coral exhibit and dolphin shows, making it a prime destination for visitors.
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The Atlantic Sea Park. Ålesund, Norway
Total Water Volume: 4 million gallons
Largest Tank: 1.1 million gallons
Annual Visitors: 2.5 millionFounded in 1951, The Atlantic Sea Park is one of Scandinavia’s largest aquariums, featuring extensive indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces. It focuses on marine life from the Atlantic Ocean and is particularly known for its impressive seal exhibit.
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The Dubai Aquarium And Underwater Zoo. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Total Water Volume: 2.77 million gallons
Largest Tank: 2.6 million
Annual Visitors: 1.5 millionLocated within the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium opened in 2008 and features an extensive collection of ocean species. Known for its 107-foot viewing panel, the aquarium promotes marine education through various programs and activities aimed at the local community.
Ranking the World’s Largest Aquariums
This list ranks the world’s ten largest aquariums based on total water volume. It also includes details about the largest tank and annual visitor numbers for each facility. Note that some aquariums are integrated with amusement parks, contributing to higher visitor counts.
Author
Elsie is an experienced writer, reporter, and content creator. As a leader in her field, Elsie is best known for her work as a Reporter for The Southampton Press, but she can also be credited with contributions to Long Island Pulse Magazine and Hamptons Online. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Stony Brook University and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee.
