Big Al's Aquarium Supercentres - Whitby

Imagine a place where the boundaries between a store and an aquarium virtually disappear. Whitby Aquarium (better known as Big Al's Aquarium Supercentres) is one of the largest specialized centers in North America, located in the city of Oshawa. It is a true mecca for aquatic enthusiasts, offering an incredible selection of marine and tropical fish, corals, and sophisticated equipment within a massive supermarket setting.

Located in the province of Ontario, Canada, this center is famous for its professional approach and impressive scale. Here, you can see not only goldfish but also rare reef inhabitants and exotic reptiles. The venue deservedly holds the title of "The Aquarium Specialists," providing technical support to both beginners and experienced collectors of aquatic ecosystems.

For tourists, this is not just a retail point, but a full-fledged attraction with unique displays and educational elements. Big Al's prides itself on its commitment to quality and accessibility, turning an ordinary shopping trip into an exciting journey into the depths of the world's oceans.

For your convenience, we have gathered all the necessary contact details in one place. If you have questions about the inventory or want to check the timing of special shows, we recommend contacting the staff directly. Planning your visit in advance will help you make the most of your time in Oshawa.

The main magnet for visitors is the "ENTER THE DEEP" zone—a series of stunning installations featuring live creatures that mimic their natural habitats. Be sure to find the famous Shark Tank, where the thrilling "SHARK FEEDING FRENZY" spectacle is held regularly. Watching these predators feed is one of the most striking moments that will be long remembered by both adults and children.

Strolling through the halls, you will see multi-level reefs, vibrant corals, and sections for both freshwater and marine inhabitants. There is also a separate section for reptiles and a picturesque koi pond that offers a sense of tranquility amidst the city bustle. If you decide to start a home aquarium, the knowledgeable staff is always ready to give a small educational tour and help you choose everything you need—from fish to complex filtration systems.

The attraction is conveniently located at 1916 Dundas Street East, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. If you are traveling by car, head toward the city's main thoroughfare, Dundas Street East. You can use precise GPS coordinates for navigation or simply enter the address into a search engine; on-site parking is provided free of charge, which makes the visit much easier.

For those who prefer public transport, buses run regularly from the center of Oshawa or nearby residential areas of Whitby. You can also use local taxi services or car-sharing; the ride from the city center takes only a few minutes. Thanks to its prime location, the facility is easy to find even for those visiting this part of Ontario for the first time.

The history of this unique location is inextricably linked to the development of the Big Al's chain, which was founded back in 1976. In over forty years of existence, the company has grown from a single store into one of the most influential retailers of aquarium equipment and marine life in all of North America.

The chain developed a unique "supercenter" format, where retail space and impressive exhibition zones are combined under one roof. The Whitby store became a vital part of this growing structure, offering visitors more than just products, but a complete immersion into the hobby. Thoughtful design and specialized staff training programs make this place a gold standard in its industry.

Interestingly, Big Al's is not just a business, but an entire educational system. The company has developed comprehensive guides on keeping exotic fish species and building complex aquarium systems, which are used by enthusiasts worldwide. The Whitby branch continues to uphold these traditions, remaining a key point of interest for nature lovers in the region.

To fully explore all the zones and take your time observing the deep-sea inhabitants, we recommend allowing 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time to catch a fish feeding session, consult with experts, and carefully examine the details of the reef displays.

If you plan to visit with children or are seriously interested in aquascaping, your stay may be longer. The atmosphere encourages long contemplation, and the variety of species on display often makes you linger at each tank longer than originally planned.

The center's operating hours are very convenient: from Monday to Friday, the doors are open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. This allows you to stop by even after a workday or your main city tours are finished.

On weekends, Saturday and Sunday, visitors are welcome from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please note that hours may change on holidays, so it is worth checking for the latest information before your trip.

After visiting the aquarium, you will have a great opportunity to explore other interesting places in the region. The surrounding area offers a mix of historical landmarks, cozy spots, and cultural sites that will help make your day rich and diverse.

Below is a list of nearby locations that can be reached in a short amount of time: