Aquarium Of The Pacific, Los Angeles, California (USA)

Located in Long Beach, California, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a vibrant marine institution that envelops visitors in the wonders of the ocean. Home to over 11,000 animals across 500 species, the expansive facility serves both an educational and conservation role, focusing on the Pacific Ocean’s diverse environments.

Guests can explore exhibits that replicate the natural habitats of these species, ranging from the frigid waters of the Northern Pacific to the colorful reefs of the Tropical Pacific. The Aquarium of the Pacific is a hub for marine science, offering numerous programs and activities that promote ocean literacy and environmental stewardship.

Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure a more intimate viewing experience of the exhibits, especially the popular Shark Lagoon and Lorikeet Forest.

Check the aquarium’s calendar for special events like animal feedings and diver presentations to enhance your visit.

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Explore underwater wonders at Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, stands as a pinnacle of marine education and entertainment. Spanning an impressive 5-acre site, this aquarium welcomes nearly 1.7 million visitors annually, making it one of the top cultural attractions in Los Angeles. The venue showcases more than 11,000 animals representing nearly 500 different species, with a strong focus on the Pacific Ocean’s diverse marine life. The aquarium’s mission centers around conservation and education about the world’s largest and most diverse body of water.

Exhibits such as the Shark Lagoon, the Frog Forest, and the interactive Magellanic Penguin Habitat allow visitors of all ages to engage directly with marine creatures. The Pacific Visions expansion, which focuses on ecological challenges facing ocean communities, integrates cutting-edge technology to educate and inspire action among its visitors. Whether you’re a seasoned marine enthusiast or a curious visitor, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers a deep dive into the mysterious and vital world beneath our oceans.

Discover the marine world: hands-on experiences and shows

At the Aquarium of the Pacific, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of hands-on experiences and educational shows. The crowd-favorite ‘Sea Otter Encounter’ allows you to observe these charismatic animals up close and learn from knowledgeable staff about their behaviors and the conservation efforts to protect them. Meanwhile, the ‘Jellyfish Discovery’ exhibit lets visitors learn about these fascinating creatures’ unique adaptations.

Daily shows and feeding times

Do not miss the interactive shows such as the ‘Seal and Sea Lion Show’ in the outdoor amphitheater, where these intelligent animals showcase their skills. Feeding times at the Ray Touch Pool provide another interactive opportunity to feed and touch the friendly stingrays under the guidance of aquarium staff.

Highlight of the Pacific: The Tropical Pacific Gallery

The Tropical Pacific Gallery is a mesmerizing showcase at the Aquarium of the Pacific that transports visitors to the vibrant underwater worlds of the tropical Pacific. This gallery features a 350,000-gallon aquarium with a beautifully crafted coral reef environment that houses a variety of species such as clownfish, angel fish, and delicate sea horses. This exhibit not only captivates with its beauty but also educates about the delicate ecosystems of tropical reefs and the importance of their conservation.

Discover the wonders at the aquarium of the pacific

Perfect for families, educational trips, and ocean enthusiasts, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers an immersive experience into marine life. Visitors can expect a captivating voyage through diverse aquatic habitats, interactive exhibits, and encounters with countless species from across the Pacific Ocean. Engaging and fun yet educational, this destination delivers memorable experiences for children and adults alike.

Best time to visit the aquarium of the pacific

To make the most out of your visit, planning to come during the weekdays is advised as the crowds are significantly less than on weekends. Late afternoons are also an ideal time as it often becomes quieter. Additionally, visiting during off-peak seasons like late fall and winter (excluding holidays) can enhance your experience, allowing more intimate viewings of exhibits.

Special events

Consider planning your visit to coincide with the annual Festival of Human Abilities. Occuring every January, this event showcases the creative talents and abilities of individuals with disabilities, enhancing the visit with unique performances and programs.

Accessibility and limitations at the aquarium

Accessibility

The Aquarium ensures accessibility for all visitors, offering wheelchair rentals, accessible pathways, and assistive listening devices. All exhibits are designed to be wheelchair friendly.

Limitations

No outside food or drink allowed.
Animals, except for service animals, are not permitted.
Smoking is prohibited throughout the aquarium.

Notes to visitors

Please be mindful of not tapping on the glass of aquatic displays.
Certain areas may require climbing stairs; however, alternative routes are available.

General informations

Prepare for your adventure at the Aquarium Of The Pacific

Location

Located near the bustling downtown area, easily reachable by public transit or car. The aquarium is adjacent to a vibrant dining and shopping district, making it a perfect day-out spot.

Address:

100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA

Opening hours

The Aquarium of the Pacific is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Christmas day and during certain private events.

Getting to the aquarium of the pacific

Car

The Aquarium of the Pacific is easily reachable by car. Parking facilities are available in an adjacent lot for a fee. Additional public parking is found nearby.

Route	Distance	Travel time
From LA Airport	22 miles (35 Km)	30 minutes
From Hollywood	30 miles (48 Km)	40 minutes
From Santa Monica	28 miles (45 Km)	35 minutes

Public Transit

Accessible by various bus lines and a metro rail service with stops near the aquarium. This provides a convenient option for those preferring not to drive.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring nearby attractions:

Queen Mary – 2 miles (3.2 km)
Long Beach Convention Center – 1 mile (1.6 km)
Pike Outlets – 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
Long Beach Museum of Art – 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Belmont Shore – 5 miles (8 km)
El Dorado Nature Center – 7 miles (11.3 km)
Naples Canals – 6 miles (9.7 km)
Rancho Los Alamitos – 8 miles (12.9 km)
Rancho Los Cerritos – 7.5 miles (12.1 km)
California State University, Long Beach – 6 miles (9.7 km)
Long Beach Waterfront – 1.2 miles (1.9 km)
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium – 9 miles (14.5 km)

Common questions

What types of marine life can be seen at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

The Aquarium of the Pacific houses a diverse range of marine life from across the world. Visitors can expect to see a variety of species including sharks, sea jellies, frogs, sea otters, and numerous tropical fish. Highlights include the Southern California/Baja Gallery with its native marine life, the Tropical Pacific Gallery featuring colorful coral reefs and inhabitants, and the Northern Pacific Gallery, which is home to creatures from colder waters. The aquarium also focuses on conservation, offering insights into endangered species and habitat preservation.

What educational programs are available at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a wide array of educational programs that cater to all ages. These include behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and workshops that provide deeper insight into marine biology and conservation. For children, there are summer camps and sleepover events. School groups can benefit from guided tours and tailored educational packages that align with curriculum standards. The Aquarium also offers adult education programs, including aquatic photography classes and guest lectures from marine scientists.

Are there any interactive experiences available at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

Yes, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers several interactive experiences that enhance visitor engagement and learning. These include touch tanks where guests can feel the texture of starfish and other marine life, feeding demonstrations, and animal encounters where you can get up close with creatures like penguins and otters. For an immersive experience, the VR theater transports visitors into the underwater world. Additionally, the Lorikeet Forest allows guests to feed nectar to colorful lorikeet birds.

What are the conservation initiatives of the Aquarium of the Pacific?

The Aquarium of the Pacific is actively involved in numerous conservation initiatives aimed at protecting marine environments and species. These initiatives include breeding programs for endangered species, habitat restoration projects such as the wetlands restoration in Southern California, and research projects focusing on climate change impacts on marine life. The Aquarium also participates in beach clean-up days and promotes sustainable seafood choices through its Seafood for the Future program.

Can visitors participate in any research programs at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

Visitors to the Aquarium of the Pacific have unique opportunities to participate in several citizen science and research programs. These programs allow guests to contribute to ongoing scientific studies, such as cataloging local marine species, tracking shark movements through tagging, and participating in special research-focused events and talks. These initiatives not only provide valuable data to researchers but also educate and engage the public in marine conservation efforts.

Does the Aquarium of the Pacific offer any night programs or after-hours events?

Yes, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers a variety of after-hours events and night programs that provide a unique view of marine life behaviors during the evening. One popular event is the ‘Night Dive’ where adults can enjoy the aquarium exhibits alongside live music and food vendors. There are also family sleepover nights that include themed tours, animal encounters, and educational activities, perfect for a memorable night at the aquarium.

Are there special exhibits or seasonal displays at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

The Aquarium of the Pacific features several special exhibits and seasonal displays throughout the year, which often focus on specific themes, species, or environmental issues. Examples include the ‘Scarium of the Pacific’ which is a Halloween-themed event featuring spooky critters and festive activities. During the holiday season, the aquarium hosts a ‘Holiday Treats for the Animals’ event. Seasonal displays like the butterfly garden in spring and summer also provide unique, temporary attractions for visitors.

What is the best time of day to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific to avoid crowds?

The best time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific to avoid large crowds is during weekday mornings or late afternoons. Visiting right after opening or a couple of hours before closing can often mean fewer visitors, making it more comfortable to view exhibits and participate in activities. Additionally, planning your visit during off-peak seasons, primarily in fall and winter (excluding holidays), also helps in avoiding bigger crowds.

Is the Aquarium of the Pacific involved in any global environmental partnerships?

The Aquarium of the Pacific is a part of several global environmental partnerships, collaborating with international organizations on projects related to marine conservation, species protection, and habitat restoration. These partnerships enable knowledge exchange and concerted efforts in tackling global environmental challenges such as ocean pollution, overfishing, and the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems.

Are there facilities and events designed specifically for young children at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

Yes, the Aquarium of the Pacific is very family-friendly and offers numerous facilities and events designed for young children. This includes interactive exhibits such as the touch tanks, small child-friendly shows at the Ocean Theater, and family programs like the toddler storytelling and play sessions. Seasonal family events and educational initiatives are also tailored to be enjoyable and engaging for children.

How can visitors maximize their experience at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

To maximize the experience at the Aquarium of the Pacific, visitors should plan their visit ahead of time by checking the daily schedule of events and shows available on the aquarium’s website. Purchasing tickets online can save time on entry. Joining a guided tour can offer deeper insights into the exhibits and the marine life displayed. Also, consider participating in hands-on experiences like animal encounters and feeding times for an up-close look at marine behaviors.

Does the Aquarium of the Pacific offer any accessibility services for visitors with disabilities?

The Aquarium of the Pacific is fully accessible and offers a range of services to assist visitors with disabilities. This includes wheelchair rentals, accessible pathways and exhibit layouts, audible exhibit descriptions, and sign language interpreters available on request. Service animals are also welcomed. The Aquarium is dedicated to ensuring that all visitors, regardless of ability, can enjoy and learn from their experience.

HelloMondo review

"A vibrant dive into marine diversity, but can be crowded and pricey."

Is the Aquarium of the Pacific in Los Angeles worth visiting?

The Aquarium of the Pacific in Los Angeles is a popular destination, renowned for its expansive collection of marine life and educational programs. It offers an impressive display of over 11,000 animals across 50 exhibits, giving visitors a comprehensive insight into the Pacific’s diverse aquatic ecosystems. Ideal for families and marine enthusiasts, the aquarium provides interactive experiences such as animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours which are both informative and engaging.

However, it’s important to consider a few drawbacks. The venue can get quite crowded, especially during weekends and holidays, which might detract from the experience. Additionally, the entry fees and extras can add up, making it a pricier outing. For those seeking a quieter or more budget-friendly option, the nearby Cabrillo Marine Aquarium offers a smaller, but still enriching experience with fewer crowds and no admission fee.