Zoomarine Algarve Portugal Review
When we mentioned to friends that we were visiting the beautiful Algarve, many suggested that we go and visit the popular family attraction “Zoomarine”. I must admit that I hadn’t heard of “Zoomarine” before… last time my husband and I visited Portugal, we didn’t have a child so we were more interested in what the bars and clubs had to offer rather than the popular family attractions in the Algarve. Now we run MyBump2Baby where we review popular days out and attractions in both the UK and abroad it seemed like the perfect chance to visit this attraction and see if it is worth a visit for families visiting the Algarve.
Described as “one of Portugal’s biggest lures for kids and adults” on Trip advisor obviously we couldn’t wait to visit Zoomarine.
Zoomarine Algarve Portugal Review
Getting to Zoomarine Algarve
Zoomarine is located in Guia, which is only a 20-minute drive from Albufeira, there are plenty of buses running that you can pay for, alternatively we decided to get an Uber which was 14 euros each way. We recommend getting a price from your hotel for the bus, a private taxi and an Uber to ensure you get the best price possible.
Opening Hours of Zoomarine, Algarve
The opening hours depend on the time of the year when we headed to Zoomarine early September it was open from 10am – 7:30pm. Click here to find out what time it is open when you are visiting.
Ticket Prices at Zoomarine, Algarve
At the time of our visit the ticket prices were;
Children under 1 metre – free
Children from 1 metre to 10 years – 18.90 euros
Age 11 – 64 years – 26.10 euros
Senior entrance 65 years + – 18.90 euros
Disability – 14.50 euros
Tickets include unlimited use of all the attractions, including the 4D Cinema, aquarium, the sea shows and the swimming attractions. You have the opportunity to buy tickets online before you arrive.
What is there to do in Zoomarine, Algarve
From thrill seeking on mini rollercoasters, splashing in the wave pools to the 4d cinema there is literally something for everyone.
What we love about Zoomarine, Algarve
Zoomarine is an extremely popular attraction that cares about the environment and its animals which is beautiful to see. It also has a rehabilitation centre and also runs sea life educational programmes. So the whole family can have fun day out whilst learning about marine conservation too.
Specialised staff are dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing marine and aquatic animals back into the wild.
The Rides at Zoomarine Algarve
There are a number of rides available but sadly George wasn’t big enough for some of the rides which I must admit was a little frustrating especially as he is obsessed with Dinosaurs so getting to the front of Jurassic river and then finding out he wasn’t allowed on was a kick off that could have been resolved if the leaflet did clearly state which ones the children under 1 metre could go on.
The Squirter
George absolutely loved the squirting ride, I sat him on my knee and used his body to shield me from the oncoming water squirted by contestant’s on the other boats and at the side of the ride.
The Train
George went on the train with Daddy, he was a little annoyed he couldn’t go at the front which of course resulted in a kick off and a few slaps we had to block but in the end he got back on the ride and enjoyed it thoroughly.
4d Cinema
We adored the 4d cinema, in fact it was a little scary in parts however watching the dolphins swim around was really sweet, the odd appearance from a shark got our hearts racing but it was all part of the fun.
The Sea lion Show
The Sea Lion Show was fantastic and the initial entertainment made it a really fun place to be, the arena was echoing with excitement from start to finish. The sea lion show was fun, educational and beautiful and it was clear to see the relationship between the trainers and the sea lions was unbreakable.
The Dolphin Show
The Dolphin show was a massive hit with George who hasn’t stopped talking about it since. We learnt about the Dolphins, the sounds they make and about their history. The show was incredible from start to finish and our jaws were wide open the whole way through.
The Beach, Wave pools and River Rapids
The aquatic playground was a massive hit with George, he explored the pirates treasure chest whilst sailing down the slide. This area kept George extremely happy as the September weather hit 31 degrees. There were plenty of other areas which would be great for older members of the family but for us with a 3-year-old we stayed in this part.
Marine life
We loved the fact that we had the opportunity to learn more about marine life at the live animal shows, aquarium and exhibitions.
Our Overall View of ZooMarine Portugal
Is one day at Zoomarine Portugal enough? I personally don’t think it is. You could literally have 3 separate days out across 3 days which is why I recommend getting a package deal through your holiday provider or purchasing the discounted ticket on your way out.
I do think they could make it easier for families with toddlers by inclusing what rides suit different ages on the leaflet and I also think that an indoor soft playarea would be great to get little ones out of the heat.
Carla is the founder of MyBump2Baby. Carla has a huge passion for linking together small businesses and growing families. Carla’s humorous, non-filtered honesty has won the hearts of thousands of parents throughout the UK.
She has previously written for the Metro and made appearances on BBC News, BBC 5 live, LBC etc. Carla is a finalist for Blogger of the Year award with Simply Ladies inc. Carla is also the host of the popular Fifty Shades of Motherhood podcast and The MyBump2Baby Expert podcast.
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