Aquarium of the Pacific
Aquarium of the Pacific
Long Beach
view website100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802+8126
1-888-826-7257
Good-for-Kids Rating
Aquarium of the Pacific Description
It's hard to say what's more popular here, the sea lion show or the outdoor tank where the sharks come right up to your nose. What parents love about the aquarium is that it's a manageable size, but the tanks are as beautiful as those at more elaborate aquariums. Expect to see sea otters, sea turtles, scorpion fish darting in and out of a kelp forest, and tropical fish in a coral sanctuary.
Kid Tips
Babies: The bright colors of the tropical fish will appeal to babies.
Toddlers & Pre-K: Don't miss the sea lion show, which little ones should find entertaining.
School-Age Kids: They'll love the lagoon, where kids can touch sharks and stingrays
Pre-Teens & Teens: Sharks -- need we say more?
Planning Notes
- Worth the trip. The aquarium is located in Long Beach, which is about 20 miles south of Los Angeles International Airport, but it's worth the trip.
- Don't miss the programs. There are different shows (like the seal and sea lion show and reef dive), educational programs (the care and feeding of sharks), and fun movies (one on surfing) throughout the day. Check the schedule online to make sure you don't miss them.
- The in-house cafe has pretty good food. There are also some restaurants in a complex behind the aquarium.
- Just a quick jaunt away. The stately Queen Mary cruise ship, open for touring, is minutes away.
Just the Facts
Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily
Fees: $10 - $20
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours



