Aquarium of the Pacific
Dive into a world of marine wonder at the Aquarium of the Pacific! Located in Long Beach, California, this aquarium is home to over 11,000 ocean animals representing nearly 500 species. Explore exhibits like the Tropical Pacific Gallery, where you can encounter colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs, or visit the Shark Lagoon to get up close with these fascinating predators.
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Aquarium of the Pacific Skip-the-Line Tickets
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Pro tips to help you make a pick
Although strollers are allowed inside the venue, the Aquarium of the Pacific does not have strollers you can borrow/rent. If you're visiting with young children, be sure to bring your own. Free baby “backpacks” can be borrowed from the information desk.
You can use multiple payment methods inside the aquarium but make sure you have a credit card on you. Some services, like wheelchair rental, are free but require a credit card for documentation.
If you're looking for vegetarian or vegan options, Café Scuba offers fresh salads, veggie wraps, and plant-based burgers. Outside food isn't allowed, but the outdoor plaza has picnic tables for your own picnic.
Do not bring oversized luggage as they are not allowed inside. Lockers are not available for storage.
The aquarium opens daily at 9am, so try to get in as early as possible. Alternatively, visiting late in the afternoon, especially on weekdays, is another way to avoid crowds.
The parking lot is located opposite the aquarium, on Shoreline Drive between Chestnut Place and Aquarium Way. You can park here all day for a one-time fee and explore other nearby attractions too, like The Pike, RMS Queen Mary, and Shoreline Village.
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About Aquarium of the Pacific
The largest aquarium in Southern California, the Aquarium of the Pacific is home to about 12,000 animals and is well-known for its contribution to research and conservation centered around the Pacific Ocean. It has more than 100 exhibits, including live animal enclosures, a jaw-dropping theater, and many public programs.
The design and architecture of the Aquarium of the Pacific were inspired by the waves of the Pacific Ocean. Developed by Kajima International the structure represents the towering and breaking of ocean waves.
The largest tank in the aquarium is the Tropical Reef habitat, with 350,000 gallons of water. An average swimming pool holds just 18,000-20,000 gallons!
Although the Aquarium of the Pacific has no live whales, it has two replicas of blue whales that are true to scale. They hang in the main hall.
The aquarium is committed to being environmentally friendly and sustainable. It was the first among American museums, zoos, and aquariums to register its greenhouse gas emissions.
Café Scuba, inside the aquarium, serves vegan seafood!
Why visit Aquarium of the Pacific?
Plan your visit
Main entrance
The Aquarium of the Pacific is located at 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802. The aquarium and its front entrance are fully accessible to those using wheelchairs.
Apart from the usual timings, there are also special night-time events all periodically arranged throughout the year.
Special hours: 9am to 8pm (August 1 to 11, 13 to 18, 24 to 25, & 31; September 1, 2, 7, 8, 14, 15, 22, 28, & 29; October 5, 13, 19, 26, & 27)
Closed: December 25
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