Shark Reef Aquarium

Overview

Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay houses over 2,000 animals in 1.6 million gallons of water across 14 exhibits. The collection includes sharks, rays, sea turtles, piranhas, and a Komodo dragon.

Highlights

• Shipwreck Tunnel: A walk-through tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and sea turtles swimming overhead.
• Touch Pool: Hands-on encounters with horseshoe crabs, rays, and small sharks.
• Komodo Dragon: One of the few facilities in the western US to exhibit these endangered reptiles.

History

Opened in 2000 as part of Mandalay Bay resort, it was designed to simulate a sinking ancient temple being reclaimed by the ocean. A $3 million renovation in 2017 updated the touch pool areas.

Visitor Tips

• Feeding Times: Check the daily schedule for shark and ray feeding demonstrations.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.