Quick Guide: Manila Ocean Park at a Glance
Manila Ocean Park is currently operating on a strict daylight schedule (closing at 6:00 PM) with a “high-anchor” pricing model that makes booking online essential. If you walk in without a reservation, you risk paying double the price for half the experience.
Here is the essential operational data you need before you book:
| Category | 2025 Operational Details |
 Location | Behind Quirino Grandstand, Luneta (Rizal Park), Manila. |
 Operating Hours | Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
 Best Promo Price | ₱1,000 (“Holiday World of Wonder” Bundle: 6 Attractions)
₱360 (Aqua Adventure Water Park Only) |
 Best For | Families with toddlers (visual sensory), Couples (sunset dining), and Barkadas (water park). |
 Critical Rules | Strictly No Re-Entry, No Outside Food, and Aqua Adventure charges by height (2ft+ pays full). |
Why this matters: Unlike theme parks that stay open late, Manila Ocean Park powers down right at sunset. Arriving after 2:00 PM is financially inefficient because you won’t have enough time to complete the circuit of shows, the oceanarium, and the water park before the 6:00 PM cutoff.
Pro Tip: The “Gate Price” for walk-ins is often ₱2,000+. You can save 50% instantly by booking via Klook or the official website, even if you are standing in the lobby on the day of your visit. Do not pay the walk-in rate.
Pro Tip: The “Gate Price” for walk-ins is often ₱2,000+. You can save 50% instantly by booking via Klook or the official website, even if you are standing in the lobby on the day of your visit. Do not pay the walk-in rate.Table of Contents
2026 Ticket Prices & Promo Hacks
The “Holiday World of Wonder” vs. Aqua Sale
The “Aqua Sale” (₱360) grants access ONLY to the Ocean Park Aqua Adventure water park, while the “Holiday World of Wonder” bundle (₱1,000) includes the Oceanarium, 5 dry attractions, and the water park. Both promos are valid through January 16, 2026.
If you are planning a visit this season, you must understand the park’s “High-Anchor” pricing strategy. Manila Ocean Park intentionally sets its published “Gate Rate” incredibly high—often around ₱2,000+ per head for walk-ins. This creates a massive price gap compared to digital channels.
Simply put, buying a ticket at the physical cashier is a “tax on the unprepared.” You will likely pay double the price for the exact same experience.
The smartest strategy is the “Lobby Booking” Hack. Even if you are already standing in the lobby staring at the long line for the cashier, pull out your phone. Open Klook or the official website, book the Manila Ocean Park ticket price promo, and wait for the instant confirmation. You can often skip the main cashier line and proceed to the dedicated online redemption lane, saving nearly ₱1,000 per person in seconds.
Crucial Warning: The park enforces a strict No Re-Entry Policy. Once you scan your ticket to enter the Oceanarium or Aqua Adventure zones, you cannot leave to eat at the mall and come back. You are committed to the facility until you leave for the day.
Hidden Costs You Must Budget For
While the promo tickets are affordable, the “micro-transactions” inside the complex can derail your budget.
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Parking Fees: If you park at the South Parking (near Harbor View), the base rate is ₱50.00 for the first 3 hours. However, it escalates by ₱30.00 for every succeeding hour. A typical 6-hour family visit will cost you around ₱140.00 in parking alone.
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The Photographer Trap: You will be intercepted by official photographers at the entrance and inside the Oceanarium tunnel. They will offer to take your photo for “free,” but the printed copy at the exit costs approximately ₱500.00. There is no obligation to buy this, so feel free to say no.
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Locker Rentals: If you are using the Aqua Adventure slides, you will need a locker for your clothes and phone. These are small (backpack sized) and require a rental fee, so bring small bills.
How to Get to Manila Ocean Park (Commute Guide)
The most direct commute to Manila Ocean Park from the south is the Fairview/Lawton bus from PITX, while travelers from the north should utilize the LRT-1 train system to avoid EDSA traffic.
Navigating Manila’s transit network can be intimidating, but the park’s location near Luneta (Rizal Park) makes it accessible via major transport corridors.
From PITX (The Southern Route)
If you are coming from Cavite, Batangas, or the airport loop, the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) is your primary jump-off point.
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Proceed to Gate 3 on the 2nd Floor of the terminal.
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Board a bus with the signboard “Fairview” or “Lawton.”
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Tell the conductor to drop you off at United Nations (UN) Avenue or T.M. Kalaw.
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Cross Roxas Boulevard and walk for 15 minutes through Rizal Park, passing the Quirino Grandstand.
Cost: Approximately ₱30 – ₱50.
While you can take the PITX shuttle to the LRT-1 station, the direct bus is often faster. These buses utilize the dedicated bus lanes along Roxas Boulevard, bypassing the transfer friction at the train station. Just be sure to bring a jacket, as the bus air-conditioning is notoriously freezing.
From Cubao/North (The Traffic-Free Route)
For those coming from Quezon City or Bulacan, the train is the only reliable way to beat the gridlock.
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Step 1: Board the LRT-2 at Cubao Station and head Westbound to Recto Station.
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Step 2: Cross the connecting footbridge to the LRT-1 Doroteo Jose Station.
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Step 3: Board the Southbound train (Baclaran direction) and alight at United Nations Station.
The “Last Mile” Warning: Once you descend from the UN Avenue station, you are still about 1.2 kilometers away from the park entrance. You will likely be approached by tricycle drivers near the T.M. Kalaw intersection offering a “special trip.”
Be careful. These drivers often charge tourists ₱150 to ₱200 for a ride that should cost ₱20 per head. If the weather is cool (December to February), the 15-minute walk past the Rizal Monument is pleasant and safe. If you must ride, negotiate the price before you get in.
Attraction Guide: Dry vs. Wet Experience
The Oceanarium & Trails to Antarctica
The best time to enter the Manila Ocean Park Oceanarium is strictly at 10:00 AM opening or during the 12:00 PM lunch hour, as these are the only windows where the 220-degree tunnel is not deadlocked with tour groups.
The Oceanarium remains the facility’s crown jewel, housing over 14,000 marine creatures. The centerpiece is the 55-meter curved walkway tunnel. If you arrive at peak time (2:00 PM), this tunnel becomes a claustrophobic bottleneck where getting a clear photo of the stingrays gliding overhead is impossible.
Related Guide: While the Oceanarium focuses on marine life, the complex also houses a botanical conservatory. If you are interested in exotic flora, check out our The Penguin Reality Check: One of the most misunderstood attractions is the “Trails to Antarctica.” Visitors often dress for sub-zero temperatures, expecting snow. However, the residents here are Humboldt Penguins, a temperate species native to South America, not the Arctic. The enclosure is air-conditioned and chilly, but it is not freezing. You will walk through a permanent “Christmas Village” exhibit—complete with snowy backdrops and holiday decor that stays up year-round—which can feel surreal during a sweltering April afternoon.
Critical Tech Warning: The Oceanarium is a massive concrete bunker. Mobile signal (4G/5G) is non-existent inside the deep tunnels. If your tickets or lunch vouchers are stored in your email, download them to your phone’s local gallery before you step past the turnstiles. You will not be able to load your Grab app or call a friend once you are inside the “Agos” zone.
Aqua Adventure (The Water Park Expansion)
VISITOR WARNING: Strict Height & Dress Code Children above 2 feet (24 inches) must pay the full admission rate. This is strictly enforced; even a walking 1-year-old often exceeds this height. Additionally, swimwear with zippers, buttons, or metal rivets is prohibited on slides to prevent damage. Wear rash guards and board shorts only.
Manila Ocean Park has successfully pivoted from a “look-only” aquarium to a “wet-and-dry” integrated resort with the Aqua Adventure water park. Unlike the sprawling water parks in Pampanga or Batangas, this facility is vertical and compact. It is built directly atop the main complex, using height rather than acreage to create thrills.
The slide portfolio is surprisingly robust for the limited footprint. Thrill-seekers should head straight for the Tornado and Super Bowl slides, which funnel riders into splash pools with significant speed. For families, the Water House offers a safer, multi-level playground with a giant tipping bucket that dumps gallons of water every few minutes—a massive hit with elementary-aged kids.
The Economic Verdict: At the promo rate of ₱360.00, the Aqua Adventure is arguably the best-value water attraction in Metro Manila. It functions as a “loss leader” designed to get bodies into the park. Even if you only spend two hours cooling off after the humidity of the bird show, the price per hour is unbeatable. Just remember to bring your own towel and toiletries, as the shower facilities can get crowded and utilitarian near closing time.
Pro Tip: Transition strategy is key. Do the dry exhibits (Birds, Penguins, Oceanarium) first while your energy is high. Hit the Aqua Adventure at 3:30 PM. The water will cool you down during the hottest part of the afternoon, and the lines for the slides usually thin out as the early birds head home.
Where to Eat: Makan Makan & The “Food Blockade”
Manila Ocean Park enforces a strictly non-negotiable “No Outside Food and Drinks” policy, and security guards conduct thorough bag checks at the entrance to confiscate unauthorized snacks.
This “Food Blockade” leaves you with a captive choice: eat inside the complex or terminate your visit early. Unlike the
Inside the Park: Makan Makan Asian Food Village
Fortunately, the in-house dining option is far superior to the standard overpriced hotdogs found in most theme parks. Makan Makan Asian Food Village, located near the hotel lobby, is designed like a Singaporean hawker center. It offers a surprisingly authentic menu of Pan-Asian cuisine that justifies the price.
The atmosphere is bustling but crucially air-conditioned, providing a necessary respite from the humid outdoor attractions.
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Must-Try: The Laksa (₱350) is a standout, featuring a rich, spicy coconut curry broth that rivals restaurants in Binondo.
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For Kids: The Oatmeal Cereal Chicken (₱350) is a crowd-pleaser—crispy, sweet, and savory without being spicy.
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Cost: Expect to spend around ₱1,500 – ₱2,000 for a family of four. While higher than street prices, the portion sizes and quality are decent.
The Budget Hack: Sunset at Harbor View
If the internal prices break your budget, use the “Heavy Breakfast Strategy.” Eat a substantial meal before your 10:00 AM arrival. Snack lightly inside (bringing a small water flask is sometimes tolerated, though not guaranteed), and then plan your exit for 6:00 PM.
Once you exit the complex, walk a few meters to the Harbor View Restaurant on the pier. While not cheap, the value proposition is better. You can enjoy a fresh seafood dinner while watching the famous Manila Bay sunset—a perfect, scenic end to the day that feels like a reward rather than a compromise.
Pro Tip: If you plan to eat at Makan Makan, go at 11:15 AM. By 12:00 PM, the large tour groups descend on the food hall, and finding a table becomes a chaotic contact sport. Eat early, then explore the exhibits while everyone else is eating.
Strategic Itineraries for 2026
To maximize the value of the ₱1,000 “World of Wonder” pass, you need a “Dry-to-Wet” strategy: hit the air-conditioned marine exhibits immediately at opening to avoid crowds, then transition to the water park when the afternoon heat peaks.
Most visitors make the mistake of wandering aimlessly, getting stuck in the Oceanarium tunnel during peak tour group hours (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM), and running out of time for the slides. Follow this time-blocked schedule to ensure you hit every major attraction before the 6:00 PM cutoff.
The “Sulit” (Max Value) Schedule
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10:00 AM: Oceanarium (Immediate Entry) Head straight to the tunnel. At opening, the 220-degree walkway is virtually empty, allowing you to take unobstructed photos of the stingrays and sharks without fighting for elbow room.
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11:30 AM: Trails to Antarctica As the midday sun heats up, transition to the “cold zone.” While not freezing, the air-conditioning here is the strongest in the park. It’s the perfect time to cool down and see the Humboldt penguins.
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01:00 PM: Sea Lion Show (Sit Down & Rest) Proceed to the Sea Lion Stadium. This is a high-capacity seated venue. After two hours of walking, use this 45-minute show to sit down, rest your legs, and let the kids be entertained by the animals’ conservation skits.
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03:30 PM: Aqua Adventure (The “Wet” Transition) Change into your swimwear. By mid-afternoon, the humidity is punishing. Spending the last two hours on the Tornado and Water House slides gives the kids a “second wind” while you cool off in the water.
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06:00 PM: Sunset at the Bay Exit the park as operations close. Walk to the pier area (near Harbor View) to catch the iconic Manila Bay sunset—the perfect, free ending to the itinerary.
Accommodations: Hotel H2O & Nearby Options
For the ultimate immersive experience, Hotel H2O offers the unique ability to sleep directly inside the park complex, though budget-conscious travelers will find better value at the nearby Red Planet Manila Bay.
Choosing where to stay depends entirely on whether you prioritize novelty or practicality.
Hotel H2O: The “Aqua Room” Experience
Located physically atop the Manila Ocean Park structure, Hotel H2O is the only integrated resort option in the area. Its Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is the signature “Aqua Room,” where a life-sized aquarium containing stingrays and tropical fish serves as your bedroom wall.
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The Vibe: It is surreal, expensive, and unforgettable for children.
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The Reality: These rooms command a premium price (often ₱6,000 – ₱10,000+ per night). Because of the humidity required for the tanks, some guests find the air heavy. It is best treated as a one-night “splurge” rather than a base for a week-long vacation.
The Budget Alternative: Red Planet Manila Bay
If you just need a clean place to crash after a tiring day of walking, Red Planet Manila Bay on Arquiza Street is the strategic choice.
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The Vibe: A “no-frills” hotel that focuses on the essentials: high-pressure showers, fast WiFi, and spotless linens.
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The Value: At approximately ₱2,000 per night, it costs a fraction of H2O. It is a safe 10-minute walk (or a cheap tricycle ride) to the park entrance, leaving you with more budget for the Aqua Adventure slides.
Conclusion: Beyond the Oceanarium
Manila Ocean Park remains a non-negotiable stop for any family visiting the capital, but the 2025 operational landscape demands strategy. The days of casual walk-ins are over; the “smart traveler” saves 50% by booking digital promos and arriving before the 10:00 AM doors open. By combining the educational depth of the Oceanarium with the physical thrills of the Aqua Adventure, you create a balanced itinerary that justifies the trip to Luneta.
Still hungry for adventure? The Philippines is packed with world-class theme parks. If you’ve conquered the marine life at MOP, here is where you should go next:
For Thrill Seekers: Just a few kilometers away is the revived Star City in Manila, perfect for night rides. If you are willing to travel south, the world-class rides at Enchanted Kingdom in Laguna are unmatched.
For Kids & Indoor Play: If the Manila heat is too much, head to Dreamplay at City of Dreams for a premium, air-conditioned DreamWorks experience.
For Scenic Views: Drive up to the highlands! You can enjoy the cool breeze at Sky Ranch Tagaytay or visit the northern counterparts at Sky Ranch Pampanga and Sky Ranch Baguio.
For Instagrammable Spots: For a unique visual experience, check out the viral J-Castle in Tanauan, Batangas, an immersive “Disneyland-esque” castle that lights up the Batangas skyline.
Final Tip: Whether you choose the deep sea or the high skies, always book in advance. The “Walk-In Tax” is real across all top Philippine attractions in 2025. Travel smart!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the Manila Ocean Park operating hours in 2025?
The park is open Mondays to Fridays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please note that the last entry is strictly at 5:15 PM, and the park closes promptly at sunset.
How much is the entrance fee for walk-ins?
Walk-in rates for 2025 can be as high as ₱2,000 to ₱3,000 per person depending on the season. We strongly recommend booking online (Klook or official site) where the “Holiday World of Wonder” promo is priced at ₱1,000, and the Aqua Adventure add-on is just ₱360.
Is outside food allowed inside Manila Ocean Park? No.
There is a strict “No Outside Food and Drinks” policy. Security guards check bags at the entrance. Exceptions are made for infant formula and specific medical dietary needs. If you prefer a location that allows picnics, you may want to consider other open-air parks in Manila like the Manila Zoo or Luneta Park.
What is the Manila Ocean Park contact number?
For reservations and inquiries, you can contact the management directly at (+632) 7238-6188 or email inquiry@manilaoceanpark.com.
Is the Philippine Biodome included in the ticket?
Not always. The “Biodome” is often a separate gated attraction or requires a specific bundle. Make sure to check your voucher inclusions carefully before queuing at the turnstile, as standard “Oceanarium” tickets usually exclude the plant conservatory.
