Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific is enormous, covering a whopping 360,000 square feet, making it the biggest aquarium in California. You can find it in Long Beach, where it showcases many exciting exhibits and environments. Because it's so large, it features numerous habitats like the Tropical Pacific Gallery and the Northern Pacific Gallery. Being one of the top attractions in sunny Southern California, it offers an amazing experience of the world's largest ocean.

At the Aquarium of the Pacific, you'll meet over 11,000 animals from 500 species. Explore a diverse marine world filled with playful sea otters, majestic sharks, sea lions, colorful fish, and fascinating moon jellyfish. You can also discover unique animals like the vampire squid and dumbo octopus in exhibits featuring both common and rare aquatic life.

It's a good idea to buy your tickets for the Aquarium of the Pacific before you go. Purchasing tickets in advance can save you time since you won't have to wait in long lines at the entrance. Plus, you might also come across special promotions or discounts that are only available online.

Bringing outside food into the Aquarium of the Pacific isn't allowed. But, you can enjoy your meal at nearby picnic tables located outside on the plaza. These tables are great for relaxing and having a bite before or after your aquarium adventure

On average, it takes about three hours to see all of the Aquarium of the Pacific. Depending on whether you attend shows, touch interactive exhibits, visit the gift shop, or join special events, your visit time might change. With so much to explore, your visit can easily last a full day if you want.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is at 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, right in the heart of downtown Long Beach. It sits along Rainbow Harbor and is close to other attractions, offering stunning water views.

To reach the Aquarium of the Pacific, drive to 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, and park in the designated lot off Shoreline Drive. Parking is $8.00 a day with aquarium validation. If you're using public transit, hop on the FREE Passport Bus that runs along Pine Avenue with frequent stops and quick arrivals, or take a bus to the Transit Mall in Downtown Long Beach — walking distance from the Blue Line and major bus lines.

The best time to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific on weekends is early in the morning, between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., to avoid the largest crowds. On weekdays, you might find fewer visitors if you go after 2:00 p.m.