Families looking for an exciting indoor activity during the winter school holidays can head to the Two Oceans Aquarium, where the Art of the Ocean holiday programme will run from 27 June to 20 July 2026. Combining creativity, marine discovery and interactive entertainment, the programme offers visitors of all ages the opportunity to experience the beauty of the ocean through art and exploration.
From colourful reef fish and graceful stingrays to playful African penguins and majestic sharks, the Aquarium’s underwater world provides endless inspiration. The holiday programme encourages children and adults alike to see the ocean as nature’s greatest art gallery while learning more about the remarkable animals that call it home.
“The ocean is full of extraordinary colours, patterns, and creatures that spark imagination and curiosity,” says Heather Wares, Communications Manager at the Two Oceans Aquarium. “Art of the Ocean celebrates that beauty while encouraging children and families to connect with marine life in fun and meaningful ways.”
Creative activities for the whole family
Young visitors can take part in special Art of the Ocean colouring-in activities at the Children’s Play Centre, giving them the chance to create their own ocean-inspired artwork during their visit.
Families are encouraged to share completed artworks on social media for the opportunity to win prizes, including a year-long Two Oceans Aquarium Membership for up to four people or a Penguin Experience for three people.
The Children’s Play Centre will also host a variety of ocean-themed craft activities throughout the school holidays. Daily puppet shows featuring popular Aquarium characters Bruce the Shark and Tinks the Tortoise will once again entertain younger visitors and remain a favourite part of the holiday programme.
Explore the underwater world
Alongside the special holiday activities, visitors can spend the day exploring the Aquarium’s exhibits. These include Africa’s only living aboveground kelp forest, the African penguin colony, mesmerising jelly displays and the iconic I&J Ocean Exhibit.
Daily animal feeding sessions offer visitors the chance to watch ragged-tooth sharks, rays, tropical fish and kelp forest species enjoy their meals while learning more about the Aquarium’s residents.
For families looking for an even more memorable experience, the Aquarium will host a members-only sleepover on 18 July 2026. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the exhibits after hours and experience the underwater world once the lights dim and the daytime crowds have gone home.
More time to enjoy the holidays
To give visitors extra time to experience everything on offer, the Aquarium will open daily from 09:00 to 18:00 throughout the school holiday programme, from 27 June to 20 July 2026.
Whether families are looking for a fun activity on a rainy winter’s day, an educational outing, or a chance to inspire a young ocean enthusiast, the Art of the Ocean programme offers a memorable school holiday experience filled with creativity, discovery and marine wonder.
Visitors can also find information on tickets, feeding times, membership options and holiday experiences by visiting the Aquarium’s official website.
