Irukandji Shark and Ray Centre

For a unique and educational experience, we recommend you visit the Irukandji Shark and Ray Centre in Anna Bay. Located on the main road as you enter Anna Bay, this state-of-the-art facility is home to a variety of sharks, rays, and other marine animals, and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about and interact with these amazing creatures.

Upon arriving at the Irikandji Shark and Ray Centre, you'll be greeted by the friendly staff and given a brief introduction to the facility. You'll then have the opportunity to visit the various exhibits and learn about the different species of sharks and rays that call the centre home. The staff are very engaging and have a wealth of knowledge about the animals. They make the talks interesting and engaging for both the parents and kids.

One of the highlights of the Irikandji Shark and Ray Centre is the opportunity to get up close and touch the rays and sharks. The centre offers a range of interactive experiences, including the chance to feed the sharks and rays, touch a ray, and even swim/snorkel with the sharks. These experiences are led by experienced staff and are a great way to learn more about these fascinating animals.

The centre has something for everyone no matter your age. Stay in the shallows and observe or get into a wetsuit and get as deep as you like. The stingrays are so friendly and want to come up to you for pats and food. The little sharks will swim up and patiently wait for you to interact with them.

The centre also runs a non-profit rescue and rehabilitation organisation called Sea Shelter and is located onsite at the centre. Ses Shelter aims to bridge the gap in the Hunter specifically for fish & marine reptiles. Each animal is assessed and treated for whatever condition in may be in, whether that be x-rays, antibiotics, or strict diet until they’re healthy again. This is an incredibly important as marine life are vital to the ecosystem and need all the help they can get. Once deamed healthy the animals are released back into their home gives them a second chance at life.

We highly recommend the Irikandji Shark and Ray Centre in Anna Bay for young families and anyone interested in marine life. Pack towels, reef safe sunscreen and be prepared to get wet all while learning about the conservation of these beautiful creatures. Book ahead of time so you do not miss out, as it gets busy during the warmer months.