The 5 best destinations for aquariums

The oceans may be largely unexplored, but these top rated aquariums make the underwater world accessible to all. Experience it first-hand without getting wet (although that is an option at some of these underwater wonderlands).

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Motobu, Japan

Located within the Ocean Expo Park, the naming of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium was decided through a public vote, with chura meaning beautiful or graceful and umi meaning ocean. Inside the aquarium, visitors can marvel at more than 26,000 animals spanning across 740 species. Many of these species are part of special shows and exhibitions, some of which allow you to interact directly with the animals. One of the things that makes Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium so special is their Churaumi Mobile Aquarium. This mobile aquarium truck travels to facilities throughout Okinawa Prefecture, giving those who may not be able to visit the aquarium a chance to see marine life up close. If you want to spend some more time with the local marine life Centurion Hotel Okinawa Churaumi is directly beside the aquarium and is a less than 10-minute walk from the beach.

Nausicaä Centre National de la Mer in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France

Since 1991, Nausicaä Centre National de la Mer has been one of the best places in France to learn about the world’s oceans. With 34,000 resident animals, there are several large exhibitions that give you a chance to learn more about marine life, including sharks, sea lions, and penguins. Nausicaä takes conservation seriously and recently, the aquarium partnered with the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds. The campaign aimed to raise funds that support the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, sick, or orphaned penguins. Logis Hôtel Hamiot is located in the heart of Boulogne-Sur-Mer, walking distance from all the biggest sights, including the aquarium.

Malta National Aquarium in Qawra, Malta

With five different zones dedicated to regions of sea life plus a dedicated reptile and amphibian area, the Malta National Aquarium is a popular spot with tourists and locals alike. One of the aquarium’s biggest draws is their zone populated with species from the Indo-Pacific ocean, including black tip sharks, zebra sharks, rays, and more. You can see this array of marine life up close as you walk through the tunnel that weaves through the tank. The Malta National Aquarium is dedicated to spreading their knowledge and visitors can attend daily talks revolving around important marine issues such as littering, loss of species, and conservation. Dolmen Hotel Malta features panoramic sea views, a free private beach and four swimming pools, in addition to luxurious spa services.

Aquarium of Genoa in Genoa, Italy

Originally built for the Genoa Expo ‘92, the Aquarium of Genoa currently features more than 600 animal species and 200 vegetable species. Today it is one of the largest exhibitions of biodiversity and ecosystems in Europe but with so many different species, it can be hard to see them all, so the Aquarium of Genoa has started offering private tours with a resident biologist. You can create a completely customised tour or follow one of the popular themes, such as the ‘dangerous animals’ tour. Alongside the biologist, you will have the chance to enter some exclusive areas for an even more unforgettable experience. Stay in an old stone building facing Genoa’s harbour, at B&B I Portici Di Sottoripa.

Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California, USA

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of California’s most famous aquariums and is known for its regional focus on the Monterey Bay marine life. This includes the only kelp forest maintained in an aquarium setting. Kelp forests are integral to the California coast and here you will be able to see first hand how it impacts specifies indigenous to the bay, including rockfish and leopard sharks. As well as an extensive menagerie of sea life, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has founded a program called Seafood Watch. This consumer and business focused program helps raise awareness of sustainable seafood purchasing, providing the tools and information needed to make informed seafood purchases. Located in Monterey’s historic Cannery Row, InterContinental The Clement Monterey is just steps away from beautiful waterfront views, nightlife, and attractions.

• When visiting an aquarium that allows you to interact with the residents animals, there are things you can do to ensure these interactions remains ethical:

• Use extreme care when interacting with the marine life. If you’re not sure how to do so safely, speak to aquarium staff

• If an animal has moved away from your touch, do not chase it – give it space
• Report inappropriate behaviour to the aquarium staff