Poema del Mar Aquarium, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Aquarium and Attraction in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Poema del Mar Aquarium
Poema del Mar Aquarium
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Mike Peel

Poema del Mar Aquarium is a modern, design-forward aquarium on the waterfront by Puerto de la Luz in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain. It's best known for its enormous panoramic viewing window where sharks and rays glide past like a living cinema screen.

Inside, the visit follows a clear one-way route through multiple themed zones, mixing large showpiece habitats with dozens of smaller tanks full of colorful reef life, jellyfish, and freshwater species. It’s an easy, weather-proof plan for a half day in the city, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

History and Significance of the Poema del Mar Aquarium

Poema del Mar is a relatively new cultural and family attraction in Las Palmas, created to showcase marine biodiversity with a strong emphasis on immersive presentation and conservation messaging. Its name nods to the artistic identity of the island, pairing striking architecture and lighting with carefully staged habitats.

Beyond being a crowd-pleaser, the aquarium plays a role in environmental awareness for the Canary Islands, a region shaped by the Atlantic and its ecosystems. Exhibits typically highlight the fragility of reefs and open-ocean life, encouraging responsible tourism and ocean stewardship.

Its location near the port area also makes it part of a broader regeneration of the waterfront, giving visitors another reason to spend time around Santa Catalina and the harbor-side promenades.

Things to See and Do in the Poema del Mar Aquarium

The headline experience is the giant ocean tank, where you can linger and watch sharks and rays cruise by in near silence. Many visitors treat this as the “finale” of the route, but it’s worth pacing yourself so you still have time to sit and take it in.

Along the way, expect a wide variety of smaller aquariums with reef fish, unusual invertebrates, and vivid species that are great for close-up viewing. The jellyfish displays are another standout, especially if you enjoy atmospheric lighting and slow, hypnotic movement.

If you’re visiting with children, the structured route helps keep things simple: you move from zone to zone without backtracking much. Plan short breaks to avoid sensory overload, as some areas use sound effects and dramatic lighting.

How to Get to the Poema del Mar Aquarium

The nearest airport is Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), which serves extensive domestic and international routes and is the main gateway for Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on Booking.com.

Gran Canaria does not have intercity passenger rail, so you’ll reach Las Palmas by bus, taxi, or car rather than train. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By car, follow signs toward Las Palmas and the port area (Puerto de la Luz), then use nearby paid parking or street parking where available. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Within the city, local buses (Guaguas Municipales) and taxis make it straightforward to reach the aquarium from Santa Catalina, Las Canteras, and Vegueta/Triana; walking from Parque Santa Catalina is also feasible for many travelers.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Poema del Mar Aquarium

  • Entrance fee: Adults: €29
  • Opening hours: Daily: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Official website: https://poema-del-mar.com/
  • Best time to visit: Arrive at opening for the calmest galleries and clearer views at the big tank; mid-afternoon can feel busier at the entrance.
  • How long to spend: Plan 2.5-3 hours for a relaxed visit, longer if you want breaks for snacks and extra time at the panoramic tank.
  • Accessibility: The aquarium is generally step-free with elevators/ramps and wide paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
  • Facilities: Expect toilets, a café/restaurant, and places to sit; the route is well signed and easy to follow.

Where to Stay Close to the Poema del Mar Aquarium

Base yourself around Santa Catalina/Las Canteras for the easiest access to the aquarium, beaches, restaurants, and public transport.

AC Hotel Gran Canaria by Marriott A strong pick for harbor views and a central location near Santa Catalina, making it easy to combine the aquarium with waterfront strolls.

Hotel Cristina by Tigotan Las Palmas Chosen for its beachfront setting by Las Canteras and an easy taxi/bus hop to the aquarium.

Sercotel Playa Canteras A comfortable mid-range option close to the beach promenade, great if you want a relaxed base with lots of dining nearby.

Occidental Las Canteras Included for a modern, practical stay near Santa Catalina and transport links, ideal for short city breaks.

Hotel Parque A budget-friendlier choice near the old town edge and main bus connections, useful if you’re mixing the aquarium with Vegueta/Triana sightseeing.

Is the Poema del Mar Aquarium Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy marine life or want a high-quality indoor attraction in Las Palmas. The standout is the massive viewing window with sharks and rays, and the overall experience is modern, clean, and easy to navigate.

Honest Pivot: If you're very price-sensitive, dislike crowds, or have family members who are sensitive to loud sound effects, you may prefer spending the day at Las Canteras beach or exploring Vegueta instead.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (22,447)

Google reviewers rate Poema del Mar Aquarium very highly (4.7/5 from 22k+ reviews). Visitors consistently praise the modern, very clean facilities, the well-organized one-way route through themed zones, and especially the huge panoramic tank where sharks and rays are a standout highlight; jellyfish displays also get frequent mentions. Common drawbacks are the relatively high ticket price and crowding at the entrance/waiting area at peak times, with a few noting that some ambient sound effects can feel too loud for small children.

Michal Wilk
2 weeks ago
"Absolutely beautiful aquarium! We had a great time visiting Poema del Mar. The place is modern, well-organized and very clean. The highlight for uswas the final giant aquarium – it looks like a huge cinema screen and it's truly breathtaking. Watching the big sharks and stingrays swimming calmly was mesmerizing. There are lots of different tanks with colorful fish, corals, and even tropical environments. It’s a perfect place for both adults and kids. Highly recommended if you’re in Gran Canaria!..."
Artem Kravtsov
in the last week
"The aquarium itself is amazing, huge number of smaller aquariums and two big ones with great views. There is a caffe and restaurant inside with okprices. Route is well organized and split into different zones. The price is pretty high, but worth it. Unfortunately the waiting area before entrance was extremely crowded, that's why I can't give it 5 stars..."
Darek Dusza
2 weeks ago
"Interesting experience with lots of species in various colours, shapes and forms. Around two and a half hour to see the whole park. At times noise ofjungle from the speakers is too loud especially for small children. The big tank with sharks and rays is mesmerising as well as the light jellyfish piece. Nice activity for families and friends...."

For Different Travelers

Poema del Mar works well as a flexible half-day plan: you can move quickly through the smaller tanks or slow down and treat it like a calm, contemplative visit. It’s also a solid “backup day” option when weather turns windy or overcast.

Families with Kids

The clear, one-direction route makes logistics easier with strollers and little ones, and the variety of tanks keeps attention from drifting. The big tank is a reliable wow-moment that usually becomes the highlight.

If your child is sensitive to noise, be ready for occasional loud ambient sound in some themed areas. Taking short breaks and aiming for an early entry can make the visit smoother.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the aquarium is a low-stress date idea that feels special without needing a full day. The jellyfish rooms and the panoramic tank are particularly atmospheric for lingering together.

Pair it with a sunset walk around the port area or dinner near Santa Catalina afterward. Going early helps you enjoy quieter viewing before peak times.

Budget Travelers

It’s a premium-priced attraction, so budget travelers may want to treat it as a single splurge rather than an everyday activity. If you do go, maximize value by arriving early and staying long enough to enjoy the big tank and slower exhibits.

To keep costs down, consider eating before you enter and using public buses rather than taxis. Las Palmas also has plenty of free alternatives (beach time, promenades, and historic neighborhoods) for the rest of your trip.

FAQs for Visiting Poema del Mar Aquarium

Getting There

Yes, many visitors can walk from Santa Catalina in around 10-15 minutes depending on pace. The route is straightforward through the port-side area.
Yes, city buses connect Santa Catalina and surrounding neighborhoods with stops within walking distance. If you’re coming from resorts outside Las Palmas, you’ll typically arrive at or near Santa Catalina first.
Parking can be limited at busy times, so allow extra time if you’re driving. Paid parking options are usually the most reliable choice.

Tickets & Entry

It’s a good idea during weekends, holidays, and school breaks to reduce waiting. Advance purchase can also help you plan your day around a specific arrival time.
Many visitors feel the price is on the high side but still worth it for the scale and quality of the exhibits. If you’re unsure, plan it as your main paid activity for the day.
Policies can vary by day and ticket type, so check at entry before exiting. Most visitors plan a single continuous visit.

Visiting Experience

Peak times can create a crowded entrance and busier galleries, especially mid-day. Arriving at opening generally offers the calmest experience.
Yes, the visuals are engaging and the route is easy to follow with a stroller. Keep an eye out for louder themed audio in some sections.
The panoramic ocean tank with sharks and rays is the main must-see. Many visitors also love the jellyfish displays and the variety of smaller reef tanks.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

No, the route is self-explanatory and signage helps you understand what you’re seeing. A self-paced visit works well for most travelers.
Yes, it pairs easily with Las Canteras beach or an afternoon in Vegueta/Triana. It’s also close to Santa Catalina for shopping and dining.
Yes, it’s fully indoors and works well when beach plans aren’t ideal. It’s also a good option on very windy days.

Photography

Yes, casual photography is typically fine, and the big tank is especially photogenic. Be mindful of reflections and low light in some rooms.
Hold the lens close to the glass to reduce glare and turn off flash. Patience helps-wait for fish to pass into clearer water.
The panoramic window is the signature shot, especially when sharks or rays pass close. Jellyfish displays also create striking images.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally yes, with step-free routes and wide paths. Elevators/ramps are typically available where needed.
Yes, there are resting points, and many people sit for a while at the big tank. This is helpful if you’re visiting at a slower pace.
Yes, standard visitor facilities are available on-site. If you’re visiting with infants, plan a short stop mid-visit.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, there’s a café/restaurant on-site, which is convenient for a mid-visit break. Prices are generally considered reasonable for an attraction setting.
Yes, Santa Catalina and Las Canteras have plenty of cafés and restaurants. It’s easy to turn the visit into a meal stop.
Rules can vary, so check the current policy before your visit. If allowed, keep snacks simple and tidy around exhibits.

Safety & Timing

Arriving at opening usually means fewer crowds and clearer viewing at popular tanks. It also gives you flexibility to take breaks without rushing.
Most visitors spend about 2.5-3 hours, especially if they pause at the big tank. Families often stay longer.
Some areas use loud ambient sound and dramatic lighting, which can be intense for sensitive children. Consider ear protection and take quiet breaks when needed.

Nearby Attractions to the Poema del Mar Aquarium

  • Parque Santa Catalina: A lively hub with events, cafés, and easy connections to buses and shopping.
  • Las Canteras Beach: The city's main beach promenade, ideal for swimming, sunset walks, and casual dining.
  • Elder Museum of Science and Technology: Hands-on exhibits close to Santa Catalina, great for families.
  • Mercado del Puerto: A popular food market-style spot for tapas and local bites near the port.
  • Vegueta (Old Town): Historic streets, plazas, and museums for a deeper look at Las Palmas’ heritage.

The Poema del Mar Aquarium appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Las Palmas de Gran Canaria!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Daily: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Price:

Adults: €29

Address: Av. de Los Consignatarios, s/n, 35008, Las Palmas, Spain
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 5 km
Telephone: +34 928 01 03 50
Official Website

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