Shark Reef

Opened to the public in 2000, Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay has spent a decade as the only aquarium in Nevada accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. It contains some 1.6 million gallons of seawater in 14 major exhibits, reaching depths of up to 22 feet. There are more than 2,000 different animals are on display, not the least of which are 15 types of sharks. It is one of the largest exhibits of its kind and the only predator-based aquarium in North America.

On display at Shark Reef are nurse sharks measuring nine feet from nose to tail, along with two fierce-looking 6-foot tiger sharks that can grow up to 14 feet long. There are also numerous sawfish, giant rays, piranha, endangered green sea turtles, moon jellies, and several rare golden crocodiles. Dive certified Mandalay Bay guests can arrange to scuba dive in the Shipwreck Exhibit, surrounded by fish. Others may wish to take advantage of a new, 30-minute behind-the-scenes guided tour now available.

Shark Reef is located inside the Mandalay Bay Resort at 3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas, Nevada 89119-1005. The hours of operation are from 10am till 8pm on Sunday through Thursday and from 10am until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Admission is allowed up to one hour before closing. Ticket prices are $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children aged 5-12, which includes a self-guided audio tour.