The Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction located in the picturesque coastal town of Vizhinjam near Thiruvananthapuram, known primarily for its fishing harbour. The aquarium, managed by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Kerala, is one of the oldest public aquariums in the country. It serves not only as a recreational space but also as an educational facility by offering a fascinating, ringside view into the underwater world while teaching the importance of marine conservation. 

Marine life along the Kerala coast 
The aquarium showcases the diverse marine life found in the Arabian Sea along the Kerala coast. The tanks, designed to replicate the natural habitats of their inhabitants, house colorful coral reefs teeming with exotic fish, intimidating predators like sharks, delicate sea horses and jelly fish, rays, sea turtles, angel fish, clown fish and various other species of fish, crustaceans, mollusks and other marine creatures. 

Interactive touch tanks
The interactive touch tanks offer a thrilling, immersive experience by allowing the visitor to touch and feel marine creatures – a soft sea cucumber, for example. The friendly, well-informed staff who are ready to answer your questions about the marine life you interact with aid your understanding of the creatures, adding to the beautiful experience. Another interesting experience that the aquarium offers is the opportunity to make a pearl in a shape of your own liking by using the ‘Image Pearl technique’.

Educational initiatives and outreach programmes
Guided tours and workshops led by staff provide visitors of all ages with valuable insights into the biology and behavior of marine animals, especially their individual adaptations to suit their natural habitats. The aquarium also partners with local schools and organisations to promote marine conservation and environmental awareness.

Conservation efforts 
In order to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Arabian Sea, the aquarium engages in research, habitat restoration projects and public awareness campaigns to promote sustainable practices for safeguarding threatened species and ecosystems. The aquarium works hand-in-hand with local residents through initiatives such as beach clean-ups, mangrove restoration, and sustainable fishing practices to encourage members of the community to become good stewards of the marine environment they live close to.