Institute of Marine Science
Burapha University runs this place, and it shows. The tanks are arranged to teach you something rather than to make you gasp, which is exactly why I'd send families and curious kids here over a slicker commercial aquarium. Jellyfish get singled out again and again in reviews, glowing in the dim light, and there's a tunnel walkway with fish passing overhead plus sharks in the bigger tanks. Most people are through the whole thing in about an hour, so treat it as a half-day paired with Bangsaen Beach rather than a full outing.
The one real complaint is crowding. Sunday brings families in numbers, parking fills up, and the air inside gets stuffy when the building is packed. Come on a weekday morning and it's a different visit entirely.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Institute of Marine Science, round out your day in Pattaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
I recently visited the aquarium in ชลบุรี, and it was an amazing experience. As soon as I walked in, I was surrounded by colorful marine life and peaceful underwater scenery. I enjoyed watching the sharks glide gracefully through the large tanks and seeing the vibrant tropical fish up close. One of my favorite parts was the tunnel walkway, where fish swam right above my head. The jellyfish display was also breathtaking, glowing beautifully in the dim light. Overall, the trip was both relaxing and educational, and it made me appreciate the beauty of ocean life even more
It is highly recommended to visit if you are traveling to the Bangsaen area for a foreign price around 100 baht but it is worth it for all family members not just for the kids. Highlights are Jelly fish exhibitions. There are also big fish tanks which you will enjoy and feel like you're under water.
Thr aquarium is big and there are a lot of stuffs to see. The whole trip takes about 1 hr. If u are Thai, the price is 80b adult, 40b children. But if u are foreigners, 220b adult which is not worth it. However if you are working in Thailand and have a valid work permit, u can pay Thai price and the lady at the counter will check your document which is then worth the price
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 13,092 reviews on Google.
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Institute of Marine Science: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Institute of Marine Science worth visiting?
Institute of Marine Science holds a 4.6★ rating from 13,092 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Pattaya.
What are the opening hours of Institute of Marine Science?
Institute of Marine Science is typically open 09:00-16:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Institute of Marine Science?
The best months to visit Pattaya are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – October (rainy, rough seas).
Where is Institute of Marine Science located?
Institute of Marine Science is at 169 Thanon Long Had Bangsaen, Tambon Saen Suk, Amphoe Mueang Chon Buri, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20131, Thailand, in Pattaya. Getting around Pattaya: Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes); Grab (widely available).
Location Info
169 Thanon Long Had Bangsaen, Tambon Saen Suk, Amphoe Mueang Chon Buri, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20131, Thailand062 713 1116www.bims.buu.ac.th/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: June – October (rainy, rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minibus from Suvarnabhumi Airport (~1.5 hrs). Bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal Ekkamai (~2 hrs). No direct train.
Getting around
- •Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes)
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Ferry to Koh Larn island
Where to stay near Institute of Marine Science
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
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Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
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Safari World
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Lumphini Park
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SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
A proper aquarium hiding in a mall basement, and the shark tunnel alone justifies the ticket.
Where to stay near Institute of Marine Science
Find hotels in Pattaya on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: June – October (rainy, rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minibus from Suvarnabhumi Airport (~1.5 hrs). Bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal Ekkamai (~2 hrs). No direct train.
Getting around
- •Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes)
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Ferry to Koh Larn island