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Institute of Marine Science

An academic aquarium in Bangsaen where the jellyfish tanks steal the show, best on a weekday.

4.6(13,092)
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Hours
Tue–Sun 09:00–16:30

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Details

Full opening hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday09:00–16:30
Wednesday09:00–16:30
Thursday09:00–16:30
Friday09:00–16:30
Saturday09:00–16:30
Sunday09:00–16:30

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Why go, and how to do it well

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.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026

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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.

169 Thanon Long Had Bangsaen, Tambon Saen Suk, Amphoe Mueang Chon Buri, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20131, Thailand

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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours

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.

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: September – October (wettest months).

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).

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