Ocean Park Hong Kong, located on the southern coast of Hong Kong Island in the Aberdeen area, is one of Asia’s premier theme parks, blending thrilling rides, world-class marine and animal exhibits, and stunning coastal scenery. Opened in 1977, this 91.5-hectare park combines entertainment, education, and conservation, attracting over 7.5 million visitors annually. With its unique mix of roller coasters, aquariums, panda habitats, and family-friendly attractions, Ocean Park is a must-visit for travelers seeking a fun-filled day in Hong Kong. This guide covers everything you need to plan your adventure.
A Travel Guide to Ocean Park Hong Kong
Why Visit Ocean Park Hong Kong?
Ocean Park stands out for its diverse offerings, catering to thrill-seekers, families, and animal lovers alike. The park is divided into two main areas—The Waterfront (lowland) and The Summit (headland)—connected by a scenic cable car and the Ocean Express funicular. Highlights include the Grand Aquarium, home to over 5,000 marine creatures, the Giant Panda Adventure featuring adorable pandas, and adrenaline-pumping rides like the Hair Raiser roller coaster. Its commitment to conservation, with programs for marine life and endangered species, adds an educational layer, while its South China Sea views and cultural attractions, like the retro-themed Old Hong Kong, provide a unique Hong Kong experience. Unlike for-profit theme parks, Ocean Park’s non-commercial ethos creates a welcoming, authentic vibe.
How to Get There
Ocean Park is conveniently located in Hong Kong’s Southern District, easily accessible from the city center:
By MTR (Subway): Take the South Island Line from Admiralty Station to Ocean Park Station (Exit B). The journey takes about 10 minutes, and the station is a 5-minute walk from the park’s main entrance. Fare: Approximately HK$10–15 one-way from central areas like Tsim Sha Tsui or Central. Tip: Purchase an Octopus Card at any MTR station for seamless fare payments across MTR, buses, and park purchases.
By Bus: Routes like 629 or 629A connect key areas (e.g., Central, Admiralty) to Ocean Park. Check schedules on the park’s website or Citybus apps. Fare: Around HK$10–12. Buses drop off directly at the park entrance.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing: A taxi from Central or Tsim Sha Tsui takes 15–25 minutes, costing HK$80–120, depending on traffic. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or local services are similarly priced and convenient.
By Car: The park offers over 1,000 covered parking spaces. Fees are HK$25/hour (weekdays, max HK$150/day) or HK$40/hour (weekends/peak days, max HK$200/day). Traffic can be heavy, so plan your route.
By Cable Car (Scenic Route): For a unique approach, take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car from Tung Chung MTR Station (not directly to Ocean Park but a scenic detour), then transfer to a bus or taxi. The 20-minute ride costs HK$96 round-trip and offers stunning views of the South China Sea.
Address: 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Appeal: Ocean Park is open year-round, with each season offering unique charm. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) provide mild weather, ideal for outdoor rides and animal exhibits.
Peak Seasons: Expect larger crowds during summer holidays, Halloween (October), and Christmas (December), when the park hosts festive events like Halloween Fest or Winter Fest. Book tickets early for these periods.
Weather: Hong Kong’s summers (June–August) are hot and humid (up to 33°C), while winters (December–February) are cooler (15–20°C). Bring a jacket for indoor exhibits like the penguin enclosure (8–10°C).
Weekdays vs. Weekends: Visit on weekdays to avoid long queues, especially for popular rides like the cable car or Hair Raiser. Arrive at opening to maximize your day.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday: 10:30 AM–6:30 PM; Saturday–Sunday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM; Closed Tuesdays (except public holidays). Note: The Giant Panda Adventure operates from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM for animal care. Check the official website for updates. Water World (adjacent water park) operates Friday–Monday, with separate tickets.
Ticket Prices: General Admission (one-day): HK$498 (adults), HK$249 (children 3–11). Free for kids under 3. Free entry for Hong Kong residents with specific IDs (e.g., seniors 65+, disability cardholders). CSSA recipients pay HK$20. Ocean FasTrack: Priority access to select rides for an additional fee. Combo tickets (including Water World or meal vouchers) are available via Klook or the park’s website.
Booking Tips: Buy tickets online through the Ocean Park website, Klook, or Trip.com to skip queues and access deals (e.g., “Buy 4, Pay for 3” promotions). Tickets are valid for 180 days.
Download the Ocean Park Hong Kong mobile app for real-time show schedules, maps, and wait times.
What to See and Do
Ocean Park is divided into The Waterfront and The Summit, with eight themed zones offering over 80 attractions. Here are the highlights:
The Waterfront
Grand Aquarium: A three-story aquarium with over 5,000 fish and 400 species, including sharks, rays, and colorful coral reefs. The 11.5-meter-long underwater tunnel is a standout. Perfect for all ages, with educational displays on marine conservation.
Giant Panda Adventure: Home to pandas Le Le and Ying Ying, gifted by China to mark Hong Kong’s handover anniversaries. Visit during lunchtime (12:00–2:00 PM) to see them active, munching on bamboo. Red pandas and Chinese giant salamanders are also featured. Note: An An and Jia Jia, former residents, passed away in 2022 and 2016, respectively. A new panda pair is expected in 2025.
Whiskers Harbour: A family-friendly zone with kid-oriented rides like Frog Hopper, Merry-Go-Round, and Bouncer House. Interactive shows at Whiskers Theatre, such as the Mini Bird Show, delight young visitors.
Aqua City and Amazing Asian Animals: Explore marine-themed exhibits and interactive displays featuring Asian species like Chinese alligators and otters. The Symbio water show, with fountains and dragon visuals, promotes environmental harmony (evenings).
The Summit
Thrill Rides: Hair Raiser: A high-speed roller coaster with 88 km/h loops and stunning South China Sea views. The Flash: A superhero-themed coaster with twists and turns. Arctic Blast: A bobsled-style ride through a polar landscape. The Rapids: A river rafting adventure with water cannons and jungle scenery. Mine Train: A 678-meter roller coaster with thrilling drops.
Ocean Theatre: A 4,000-seat open-air theater hosting dolphin and sea lion performances. Shows highlight marine intelligence and conservation (check app for times).
Polar Adventure: Meet King Penguins and seals in a chilled 8–10°C environment. The underwater tunnel offers close-up views. Bring a light jacket.
Ocean Park Tower: A 72-meter rotating observation tower offering 360-degree views of the park, Aberdeen, and outlying islands. Ideal for photos.
Sea Jelly Spectacular and Chinese Sturgeon Aquarium: Marvel at glowing jellyfish and learn about the endangered Chinese sturgeon, a “living fossil” of the Yangtze River.
Unique Experiences
Cable Car Ride: A 1.5-km ride connecting The Waterfront and The Summit, offering 12–15 minutes of breathtaking views over the South China Sea. Queues can reach 15–30 minutes; consider the faster Ocean Express funicular for convenience.
Old Hong Kong: A nostalgic street recreating 1950s–1970s Hong Kong with retro shops, street food, and games. Perfect for cultural photos.
Gala of Lights: An evening multimedia show with fountains, lights, and performances (seasonal, check schedule).
SkyFair Celebration: A helium balloon ride (weather-dependent) soaring 100 meters for panoramic views.
Water World Ocean Park
Adjacent to the main park, this seaside water park features 27 indoor and outdoor attractions across five zones, including wave pools and towering slides. Open Friday–Monday; separate tickets start at HK$320.
Where to Eat
Ocean Park offers diverse dining options across nine restaurants and cafes:
Neptune’s Restaurant: Chinese fine dining with a giant aquarium view, serving dim sum and Cantonese dishes (HK$100–200/person).
Tuxedos Restaurant: East-meets-West fusion, including pizzas and pastas (HK$80–150).
Ginger Grill: Open-fire Thai charcoal-grilled dishes (HK$80–150).
Club Panda: Hong Kong-style dim sum and snacks (HK$50–100).
Food Kiosks: Affordable options like burgers and noodles (HK$40–80). Meal vouchers (HK$88–102) are available with some ticket packages.
Nearby: The Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel and The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel offer upscale dining and 24-hour room service. Aberdeen’s floating restaurants (10-minute drive) are great for seafood.
Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle; refill stations are available to stay hydrated.
Tips for a Great Visit
Plan Ahead: Pre-purchase tickets online to save time and money. Check the park map and show schedules via the mobile app.
Arrive Early: Gates open at 10:00 AM (weekends) or 10:30 AM (weekdays). Start at The Waterfront and take the cable car to The Summit to beat ride queues.
Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes for extensive walking. A light jacket is needed for Polar Adventure. Ponchos are useful for water rides like The Rapids.
Skip Queues: Purchase an Ocean FasTrack for priority access to rides like Hair Raiser or The Flash.
Conservation Focus: Engage with educational exhibits like the Chinese Sturgeon Aquarium to learn about Ocean Park’s sustainability efforts (e.g., solar power, rainwater harvesting).
Photography: The cable car, Ocean Park Tower, and Old Hong Kong are ideal for photos. Drones and tripods may require permits.
Combine Your Trip: Visit nearby Aberdeen for a floating village tour or dinner at Jumbo Kingdom (10-minute drive).
Final Thoughts
Ocean Park Hong Kong is a treasure trove of excitement, education, and natural beauty, offering something for everyone—from heart-pounding roller coasters to up-close encounters with pandas and penguins. Its stunning South China Sea backdrop, commitment to conservation, and nostalgic cultural touches make it a uniquely Hong Kong experience. Plan your visit with this guide, arrive early, and immerse yourself in a day of thrills and wonder. Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo traveler, Ocean Park promises memories to last a lifetime.
Happy travels!
