Aquarium of the Pacific: Dive into Long Beach’s Premier Marine Wonderland & Home to Over 11,000 Creatures

Claim to Fame

The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the largest aquariums in the United States—showcasing over 11,000 animals across 50 exhibits that span the Pacific Ocean’s diverse habitats from Southern California to the Tropical Pacific.

📌 Navigating Aquarium of the Pacific : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Washrooms are conveniently located throughout the aquarium for visitor convenience.
Hours of Operation: The aquarium typically operates daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during summer and holidays.
Important Information: It is advisable to check the aquarium's official website for any special events, seasonal exhibits, and updated health guidelines.
Admission Fee: Admission fees vary based on age and membership status, with discounts available for children and seniors.
How Long to Visit: A visit typically lasts about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the number of exhibits explored and activities participated in.
Parking: The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a parking structure with both standard and accessible parking spaces available.
Family Friendly: This destination is family-friendly, featuring interactive exhibits and activities suitable for visitors of all ages.
Photography: Photography is encouraged, but tripods and professional equipment may require special permission.
WIFI: Free WiFi is offered throughout the aquarium for visitors to stay connected.
Picnic Area: There is no designated picnic area; however, visitors can enjoy meals in the restaurant or café.
Handicap Accessible: The aquarium is fully handicap accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated restrooms for guests with mobility challenges.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in the aquarium, with the exception of service animals.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and can enhance the visitor experience by providing in-depth information about exhibits.
Restaurant or Cafe: The aquarium features a restaurant and café that serves a variety of meals and snacks, often with ocean-friendly options.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is available on-site, offering a variety of souvenirs, educational toys, and marine-themed merchandise.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Aquarium of the Pacific

Perched on Rainbow Harbor’s waterfront in Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific immerses visitors in vibrant underwater worlds. Walk beneath the Pacific Visions theater’s curved screen, touch sharks and rays in the Shark Lagoon, and marvel at hypnotic jellyfish in the Lorikeet Forest. With interactive tidepools, daily animal feedings, and behind-the-scenes tours, the Aquarium blends conservation education with up-close encounters—connecting guests of all ages to the oceans’ wonders and challenges.

What to Expect

Begin at the Pacific Visions wing to watch a 24-foot immersive film on marine ecosystems, then enter the three main galleries: the Southern California & Baja Gallery’s kelp forests and local fishes; the Northern Pacific Gallery’s sea otters and giant Pacific octopus; and the Tropical Pacific Gallery’s coral reefs, egg-laying sharks, and luminous sea jellies. Stop at the interactive tidepools to feel anemones, urchins, and starfish. Attend daily dive shows at the Lorikeet Forest aviary and the Shark Lagoon, and join educational talks at the Marine Mammal Rescue Center to learn about sea lion and penguin rehabilitation.

Background and Cultural Context

Opened in 1998, the Aquarium of the Pacific was designed to highlight the Pacific Ocean’s ecological diversity and conservation needs. Its architecture—by Barton Myers Associates—blends glass, concrete, and steel to evoke waves and coastal bluffs. As a non-profit institution, it conducts research on marine conservation, supports local restoration projects, and partners with schools through STEM programs. The Aquarium’s signature “Hands-On HQ” and “Fish Facts” kiosks empower visitors to become stewards of ocean health.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (10–12 PM) offer quieter galleries and shorter lines at popular touch tanks. Late afternoons (3–5 PM) allow you to catch animal feedings and keeper presentations with fewer crowds. Summer weekends fill quickly—arrive at opening to reserve spots in sold-out behind-the-scenes tours. Seasonal events—Shark Week in July and Holiday Celebration in December—feature special exhibits and extended hours.

How to Get There

The Aquarium is at 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. From Los Angeles, take I-710 south to exit Shoreline Drive, then follow signs to the Aquarium parking garage (fee applies). Metro riders take the Blue Line to Downtown Long Beach and transfer to the AquaLink shuttle at Transit Plaza. Ample street parking and bike racks are available along Aquarium Way. The facility is fully wheelchair-accessible, with elevators and companion seating in theaters.

Photo Opportunities

Underwater tunnel view of sharks and rays gliding overhead
Sea otters floating on their backs in the Northern Pacific exhibit
Vibrant coral reef scene in the Tropical Pacific Gallery
Colorful lorikeets feeding in the outdoor aviary under dappled sunlight
Panorama of Rainbow Harbor and the Aquarium’s façade at sunset

Travel Tips

Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the lobby queue and secure feeding-show seats.
Plan for 2–3 hours to explore all galleries, touch tanks, and the Pacific Visions theater.
Check the daily schedule for dive shows, animal presentations, and sea lion feedings.
Bring a refillable water bottle—hydration stations are available; waterfront cafés offer light bites.
Combine your visit with a harbor cruise or a stroll along Shoreline Village for a full-day outing.

FAQs

Is admission required?
Yes—general admission is USD 36.95 for adults, USD 29.95 for seniors/students, USD 24.95 for children (3–11); children under 3 free. Pacific Visions theater and behind-the-scenes tours may incur extra fees.

Can I touch the animals?
Yes—in supervised tidepools and at designated touch stations (e.g., Shark Lagoon). Staff will guide proper handling to protect wildlife.

Are guided tours available?
Yes—daily guided tours and specialty tours (e.g., VIP, marine mammal encounters) can be booked online or at guest services.

Final Thoughts

The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a deep dive into the Pacific Ocean’s wonders—where colorful reefs, playful otters, and interactive experiences inspire conservation and curiosity. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast, family with young explorers, or a lifelong learner, this coastal gem brings the sea’s magic to Southern California’s doorstep.

📘 Los Angeles Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Los Angeles operates on Pacific Standard Time (PST), which is UTC -8. During Daylight Saving Time, it shifts to Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), UTC -7.

Weather: Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate, featuring warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures average 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is scarce and mainly occurs between November and March.

Population: Los Angeles has a population of approximately 4 million people, making it the second-largest city in the United States. The Greater Los Angeles area has over 13 million residents and is one of the most diverse urban regions in the world.

Size: Los Angeles covers roughly 1,302 square kilometers (503 square miles). The city stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the San Gabriel Mountains and includes a wide range of neighborhoods, terrain, and microclimates.

Language: English is the primary language spoken in Los Angeles, but Spanish is widely spoken throughout the city. Dozens of other languages are commonly heard, reflecting its multicultural population.

Currency: The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets are accepted nearly everywhere.

Safety: Los Angeles is generally safe for visitors, especially in tourist areas like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Downtown. However, some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, and petty theft can occur in busy places. Basic safety precautions are advised.

Tipping: Tipping is standard in Los Angeles. A 15–20% tip is expected in restaurants. Tipping is also customary for rideshare drivers, hotel staff, bartenders, and other service workers.

Electricity and Plugs: The United States uses 120V electricity at 60Hz. Plug types A and B are standard. Visitors from other regions may need plug adapters and voltage converters.

Water: Tap water in Los Angeles is safe to drink. It meets federal and state safety standards, though some visitors prefer bottled water due to taste or sensitivity.

Annual Visitors: Los Angeles receives over 45 million visitors annually. Tourists are drawn to Hollywood, Universal Studios, Venice Beach, Griffith Observatory, and its thriving arts, entertainment, and culinary scenes.

Visa Requirements: Most international visitors to Los Angeles require a valid passport and may need a visa or an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program, depending on nationality.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required to visit Los Angeles. Routine vaccines such as measles, flu, and COVID-19 are recommended, especially for travelers attending crowded public events.

Transportation: Los Angeles is known for its car culture. While there is a metro and bus system, most visitors rent cars or use rideshare services. Traffic can be heavy, and distances between attractions are often large.

Food: Los Angeles offers a diverse food scene, from gourmet restaurants to street tacos and Korean BBQ. Notable local dishes include In-N-Out burgers, California-style sushi, and a fusion of Latin American, Asian, and classic American cuisines.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Los Angeles is casual and laid-back, with a strong emphasis on creativity, inclusivity, and cultural expression. Locals are typically friendly, and personal space and punctuality are appreciated in social settings.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public areas. Mobile coverage is excellent throughout the city. SIM cards and prepaid data plans are easy to obtain at convenience stores and airports.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is recommended for visitors to Los Angeles. While healthcare is high quality, it is expensive for non-residents. Insurance also helps cover trip cancellations, delays, and theft.

Did You Know? - Facts About Aquarium of the Pacific

One of the highlights of the aquarium is its immersive Shark Lagoon, where visitors can safely touch sharks and rays in a shallow pool, offering a unique hands-on experience with these fascinating creatures.

The Pacific Visions wing of the aquarium, which opened in 2019, features cutting-edge technology and interactive displays, focusing on the challenges facing our oceans while inspiring visitors to take action for a sustainable future.

The aquarium hosts various educational programs, including field trips and sleepovers for students, designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for marine biology and environmental stewardship among young visitors.

The Aquarium of the Pacific, located in Long Beach, California, is home to over 12,000 animals representing more than 500 species, showcasing the diverse marine life from the Pacific Ocean. Its exhibits range from vibrant coral reefs to the chilly waters of the Arctic.

The aquarium plays a crucial role in marine conservation and research, actively participating in rescue efforts for stranded marine animals and sustainable practices to protect the ocean's ecosystems.