Our 76th entry in this blog is our trip to Manila Ocean Park near Luneta in Ermita, Manila.  It is located behind the Quirino Grandstand at Rizal Park.  This is my first time, as well as Papa Dave, Ate Rei, Sai, and Ate Gina.  But this is not Gooya and Lolo’s first time.  🙂  We came here right after visiting Luneta Park nearby.
The area is sooo big and there are lots of restaurants and food stalls inside.  The facility opened in March 2008.  Here is Ate Rei, Sai, and Papa D going inside. 🙂

We first visited the Oceanarium.  The main attraction of Manila Ocean Park is the Oceanarium which houses 14,000 sea creatures from about 277 species all of which is indigenous in Southeast Asia.  The inside is nicely structured complete with realistic huge stones and big plants.

The Oceanarium has several sections (seven? I guess) and we are now about to enter The Reef section.  A lot of colorful coral reefs are displayed and also well maintained.

This is the second aquarium we have visited, the first is the Shinagawa Aquarium in Japan, but the amount of excitement and happiness looking at all sea creatures are equally fun and amazing.

The space inside this Oceanarium is really huge that Ate Rei and Sai are so happy to run around.  “The water source for the Oceanarium is filtered water from Manila Bay. A special process is done to ensure that the seawater is suitable for marine life. It has an educational activity area, unique function rooms for special events and bi-level shark and stingray viewing facilities.” –wiki.

Our favorite part is the underwater tunnel.  It is a curved walkway tunnel with a spectacular underwater view of amazing sea creatures swimming overhead.  And most of the fishes are jaw-dropping big!  I’m always glad to go to places like these, to see things you never see in ordinary daily life 🙂

And look at Sai!  He is sooo amazed by the big fish and said: “That fish can eat me whole!” 🙂

We took a break from all the ooohs and aaaahs while inside the Oceanarium, but we are still in awe at the very huge aquarium surrounding us.

After the Oceanarium, we visited some of the souvenir shops and had lunch.

We then went inside the Creepy Crawlies.  “Learn more on the importance of often ignored creatures and be enlightened on the magnitude of insects, worms, spiders, bugs, frogs – collectively known as the Creepy Crawlies!” — manilaoceanpark.com

There are lots of animals and insects to see in this section.  Ate Rei and Sai are so busy looking for the ones that are hiding and are masters of disguise.

The layout for the display is nice.  There is even a kitchen layout where insects are located in kitchen drawers. Brrr… Makes my hair stand just by looking at them.  “Creepy crawlies are often misunderstood and feared upon but you’ll be amazed at the superpowers they possess and have developed all for the ultimate goal of survival.” — manilaoceanpark.com.

We then went inside the SuperToy Collection.  It is not really an ocean related exhibit but we are not going to miss this fun display of superhero toys and figures.

“Fulfill your superhero dreams with our super fun-filled, picture perfect and interactive Super Zones. Check out the largest toy collection of your childhood superheroes in the Philippines. Kids and the kids at heart will surely enjoy the Supertoy Collection!” — manilaoceanpark.com

After the indoor visits, we went outside to the stadium for the All Star Bird Show which was also fun.  “Our fine feathered friends provide awesome tricks, amazing stunts, guest participation and an important environmental message for its audience. These intelligent birds consist of macaws, cockatoos, and eagles and provide remarkable showmanship and high-flying thrills.”
We also had fun watching the Sea Lion Show.  These Sea Lions are from South America.  “They bring you valuable information on environmental conservation. The show runs 4 to 6 times a day and seats up to 1,900 pax per show. It is also a fantastic show for all, highlighting their special skills and unique characteristics plus a chance to get a kiss with a souvenir photo.” — manilaoceanpark.com

Our visit to the Barnyard was equally fun as well for both Ate Rei and Sai.  “It is a place that can give joy and relaxation because of the undeniable cuteness and sweetness of the pets that are sheltered in it. Watch the bunnies, hamsters, guinea pigs, rats and chickens eat, hop, run and play. Have the chance to see them take care of their babies, and get to learn more about them.” — manilaoceanpark.com
This Ocean Park is not just for sea creatures but a mini zoo as well.  Weeee!!! 🙂

After all the walking and watching, we all went to the Fish Spa.  There are scary looking fishes here so I did not dip my feet in it. hehehe…  “doctor fishes nibble dead skin cells from your tired feet, leaving you with rejuvenated skin and a refreshing feeling the natural way. All you have to do is sit back and have fun with these therapeutic fishes as they feast on your toes.”  Look at Papa Dave, that really is very tickly! 🙂

Next is the Neon Rides.  They are called Neon Rides since they light up during the night.  We just did not wait for the night since it will be very tiring to wait till then, but still we enjoyed our mini ride around the area.  “These Volkswagen-inspired cars will make you take as much pictures as you want, sing along to your favorite songs and get fit as you pedal your way around our area.” — manilaoceanpark.com

And our last stop is to go back to the big stadium for the Symphony Evening Show.  “A merry fusion of earth’s basic elements – water, fire, air and light to ignite Manila Bay’s night sky with larger than life distinct characters from the sea. Using the latest multimedia technology, Symphony is a majestic display of huge water fountains, the tallest in the Philippines reaching 40 meters or 120 feet. Symphony has more depth, creating a 2D effect as you enter an ethnic and mysterious world filled with new entertaining animated marine life characters in breathtaking fluid motion and vibrancy.” — manilaoceanpark.com

That was really really fun Manila Ocean Park.  Until our next visit! 🙂