Aquarium of the Pacific
Ways to visit Aquarium of the Pacific
At the aquarium you’ll meet a wide variety of fish and marine animals, from seahorses and starfish to turtles, seals, sharks, and even an octopus. Galleries and habitats include the Tropical Pacific, Northern Pacific, and Southern California and Baja, while additional exhibits such as Our Water Future educate the public about conservation.
With its waterfront location near Shoreline Village, the Aquarium of the Pacific is easy to visit during a day of sightseeing in Long Beach and Los Angeles. Purchase a skip-the-line ticket to save time, or opt for an LA sightseeing card if you’re planning to visit more attractions in the area.
Things to know before you go to Aquarium of the Pacific
The aquarium is ideal for animal lovers and families with children.
There is an on-site café for snacks and light meals.
The complex is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; guests can borrow wheelchairs for no fee.
How to get to Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific is located on Aquarium Way at Long Beach’s Rainbow Harbor. It’s a 10-minute walk from the downtown Transit Mall, and the city’s Passport bus line stops outside. If you’re driving, there is paid parking in the aquarium’s parking structure.
Trip ideas
When to visit Aquarium of the Pacific
The aquarium is open from 9am to 6pm every day of the year. It’s the busiest on weekends and in summer, so if you’re visiting during one of those times, go in the morning to avoid the crowds. On weekdays, school groups often visit until the early afternoon. Check the aquarium’s online calendar for annual events such as Shark Lagoon Nights and a children’s festival.
Aquarium Experiences
In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium offers a variety of activities that provide a more in-depth look at the animals and the facility. For additional fees, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour (guests must be at least 7 years old), participate in an animal encounter with penguins or sea lions, or even head out to sea on a dolphin- and whale-watching cruise.
- Things to do in California
- Things to do in Anaheim & Buena Park
- Things to do in Los Angeles
- Things to do in Santa Monica
- Things to do in La Jolla
- Things to do in San Diego
- Things to do in Palm Springs
- Things to do in Santa Barbara
- Things to do in Pismo Beach
- Things to do in San Luis Obispo
- Things to do in Paso Robles
- Things to do in Las Vegas
- Things to do in Scottsdale
- Things to do in Nevada
- Things to do in Arizona