Ocean Park is a marine-themed amusement park and animal park on the south side of Hong Kong Island, in Aberdeen. It has more than 80 attractions split between two areas, the Waterfront and the Summit, which are linked by a 1.5-kilometre cable car and the Ocean Express funicular. The Giant Panda Habitat and the Grand Aquarium are the main animal stops. Hair Raiser, a floorless coaster above the South China Sea, is the headline thrill ride. Gentler rides, dolphin and sea lion shows and garden paths suit families. Plan on a full day.
From a pleasure farm to Hong Kong's second-largest theme park
Ocean Park opened in January 1977 on the site of New Paris Farm, an old pleasure farm in Wong Chuk Hang. The government backed the project, and the Hong Kong Jockey Club provided funding. It was first planned as a mix of aquarium and amusement park, with a few marine-themed performances.
Today it is the second-largest theme park in Hong Kong. Animal conservation and education remain a large part of its purpose, alongside the rides.
How the park is laid out
The park has two areas, the Waterfront and the Summit. A cable car system 1.5 kilometres long and the Ocean Express funicular railway connect them. Both are useful transport, and the cable car gives views over the sea and the park. Many visitors take it down at the end of the day.
In total there are more than 80 attractions. The Waterfront side includes Aqua City, where the aquarium dome stands, and Rainforest Adventure. The Summit side is where the headland rides are.
Animals and exhibits
The Giant Panda Habitat is the best-known stop. The enclosure is designed to resemble the pandas' natural surroundings, and the animals are usually easy to see while they eat bamboo. A photo at the panda-themed entrance is a common first stop. Flash photography is not allowed near the pandas.
The Grand Aquarium is built around a large viewing dome. Other animals in the park include sharks, stingrays, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, walruses and large manta rays. The Ocean Theatre stages shows with dolphins and sea lions, so check show times when you arrive. The Emerald Trail is a quieter garden walk with birdsong, and there are colourful goldfish to see as well.
Rides, from gentle to intense
Two rides are clearly aimed at thrill-seekers. Hair Raiser is a floorless coaster with sharp drops and loops over the South China Sea. The Flash is a fast ride that spins through 360 degrees. The Abyss Turbo Drop lifts riders slowly up a 185-foot tower, with a view across the park, before the drop.
Beyond those, most rides are much gentler and suit younger children or anyone who prefers a slower pace. The older-style attractions include bumper cars, a swinging galleon ride and a giant Ferris wheel.
Seasonal events and Water World
The park holds a Halloween Fest each autumn. One edition used the theme Horrors of the Hidden City and set up six haunted zones across different eras. Special decorations and costumed performers appear during the season.
Water World, a seaside water park, opened in September 2021 and is described as the first in Asia to run year-round in all weather. Inside, amenities include a wave pool and a lazy river.
Planning the day
Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and January brings cooler weather and smaller crowds. Lockers and baggage storage are available, and a paid car park is on site. The entrance, restrooms, parking and some seating are wheelchair accessible.
On your way out, the food street has Mammy Pancake, a popular sweet stop at the end of the day.
FAQ
How long do you need at Ocean Park?
Plan on a full day. With more than 80 attractions across two areas, most visitors spend the whole day to see the animals, ride a few rides and take the cable car.
When is the best time to visit?
Weekday mornings, from opening, have the shortest waits and the mildest heat. January is a cooler month with smaller crowds. Weekends are busier.
Should you buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Advance tickets that do not need collecting let you skip the ticket booth queue. In high season, Fast Track tickets reduce time spent in ride lines.
Is Ocean Park good for young children?
Yes. Only two rides, Hair Raiser and The Flash, are intense. The rest are gentler, and the pandas, aquarium and shows work well for families.
How do you get between the two areas of the park?
The cable car, 1.5 kilometres long, and the Ocean Express funicular railway link the Waterfront and the Summit.
Is Ocean Park wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, restrooms and parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and there is accessible seating. The park is on a hillside, so plan your route.
