It was one of those sunny Manila mornings when the sky promised a good day. After a string of business meetings, we suddenly had an open schedule. With packed snacks, comfy shoes, and wide smiles, we headed toward Manila Ocean Park, ready to dive into a day full of memories.

The Oceanarium: A Walk Beneath the Sea

From what I had seen on social media, the Oceanarium was a must-visit. I was eager to experience the feeling of being surrounded by marine life.

The long tunnel did not disappoint. It was breathtaking to see colorful fish, rays, and even sharks swimming all around us. However, the tunnel was packed with visitors, as many as the fish! — making it tricky to snap a decent photo with a beautiful backdrop. We were also only allowed a few minutes inside, but even that short time was captivating.

In the Heart of the Reef of Manila Ocean Park

Inside the tunnel, vibrant fish darted by, a stingray glided overhead like a graceful spaceship, and even a curious shark circled close. It was mesmerizing — a glimpse into a hidden underwater world.

More Than Just Pretty Fish

What stood out even more were the bits of trivia and facts displayed along the way. Manila Ocean Park wasn’t just about entertainment; it wrapped education in wonder.

We learned about marine biodiversity and the importance of protecting our oceans. It left a lasting impression, especially on the kids. As homeschoolers, this felt like one of the best field trips we’ve ever had.

Penguins, Sea Lions, and Feathered Friends

The Oceanarium amazed us with its underwater wonders, and the animal encounters were equally exciting. Seeing animals up close — animals we usually only saw in books or on screens — was unforgettable.

Meeting the Penguins

At Trails to Antarctica, we stepped into a chilly wonderland filled with snow and waddling Humboldt penguins. The kids squealed with delight as the penguins slid and swam, almost as if they were putting on a private show.

A part of me felt a twinge of sadness, knowing this wasn’t their natural home. But another part of me imagined they were like Skipper and the gang from Madagascar — loving the spotlight and their quirky world.

The Sea Lion Stars

Next up: the Sea Lion Show — and what a show it was! These clever, playful creatures clapped, balanced balls, and even “kissed” brave volunteers from the audience.

While the tricks amazed us, what made it even more special was how the trainers emphasized marine conservation. It was clear these sea lions were more than just performers — they were ambassadors for their species.

Birds of a Feather

We also caught the All-Star Bird Show, where colorful parrots, cockatoos, and even a majestic eagle took to the sky. Some birds even landed on lucky volunteers!

It was both thrilling and heartwarming to learn that many of these birds were rescued and are now cared for lovingly at the park.

Rest and Refuel

By mid-afternoon, our feet were tired, and our tummies were rumbling. We found a cozy spot inside the park to enjoy a simple, satisfying lunch overlooking the bay — nothing fancy, just good food and happy chatter around the table.

As we ate and rested, we were treated to an unexpected bonus: the sunset over Manila Bay. The sky slowly transformed into a masterpiece, painted with deep oranges, fiery reds, and soft purples. It was the kind of sunset that made you stop mid-bite to soak it all in. Watching the sun dip into the water while boats floated lazily in the distance felt like a scene straight out of a postcard. It added a perfect, captivating note to our already wonderful day.

We also tried something new: the fish spa, where tiny fish nibbled gently on our feet. It was impossibly ticklish — we couldn’t stop giggling! (Pro tip: If you’re very ticklish, you might want to skip this part.)

Even a short foot massage afterward made a world of difference — a little recharge before heading back out to explore.

Before You Go…

If you’re planning a visit, here are a few tips:

• Come early – The park opens at 10:00 AM, and you’ll want plenty of time to explore.
• Book online – Save time (and sometimes even money) by getting your tickets through their website.
• Stay nearby – Consider Hotel H2O for the full experience — some rooms even have aquariums!
• Pack light – There’s a lot of walking, so bring just the essentials and loads of energy.

Final Splash

Looking back, our visit to Manila Ocean Park was more than just a day trip — it was a shared experience full of laughter, learning, and love.

We still talk about the tunnel, the penguins, the giggly fish spa, and that breathtaking sunset over Manila Bay.

This is one of those treasured moments when we are away from screens and schedules and simply enjoying ourselves together.

If you’re searching for a family-friendly spot in the heart of Manila that blends fun, learning, and unforgettable views, Manila Ocean Park is a must-visit.

And yes — we’re already planning to come back for another splash (and another sunset!).

For more family-friendly travel recommendations and inspiring adventures, follow A Joyful Life! Let’s keep discovering beautiful places and creating joyful memories together.