Adelaide Aquarium / SA Marine Discovery Centre

Overview The SA Marine Discovery Centre is a coastal and marine educational facility located at Henley Beach. It focuses on South Australia's local marine environments, including the Great Southern Reef, aiming to provide inspirational and interactive learning experiences. The centre's mission is to empower visitors to actively protect coastal and marine ecosystems through a deeper understanding of them.

The facility houses aquariums showcasing local marine species and a variety of interactive learning stations. Exhibits cover topics such as sustainable fishing, responsible water use, marine debris, and the cultural relationship the Kaurna people have with the coast. In addition to the indoor displays, the centre organises guided beachside marine trails to use the shoreline as a practical learning environment. The centre primarily serves school excursions and group bookings but holds monthly open day events for the general public.

Highlights

• Interactive exhibits including a beachcombing game, microscopes for viewing specimens, and models covering topics from climate change to stormwater.
• Virtual Reality (VR) headsets that allow visitors to experience being underwater with Australian Sea Lions, Leafy Seadragons, and exploring under the Henley Beach Jetty.
• The "Wodli" Kaurna education room, which provides insight into the relationship between the Kaurna people and the coastal environment.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: Visitors have noted the engaging and hands-on nature of the activities. Feedback suggests that the experience can reinforce a child's interest in marine science, and the staff are mentioned as being knowledgeable and welcoming.

What to watch out for: The centre is predominantly a school excursion destination and is not open daily to the general public. Visits must be planned around the monthly open days or school holiday programs, and bookings are essential.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: Primary school-aged children (a "Kids Marine Scientist Club" is offered for ages 7 to 13).

Facilities: Public toilets, interactive centre, small kitchen facilities for groups, and a gallery/museum space.

Note: The centre is located at Henley Beach, not Glenelg. Public visits are limited to monthly open days, which require booking. It is also available for school holiday programs and private group bookings.