An ocean adventure on the downtown waterfront
Make a little room for wonder. The Aquarium of the Pacific sits on Rainbow Harbor in downtown Long Beach, and its exhibits introduce different Pacific environments, from Southern California waters to the Northern and Tropical Pacific. Shape the visit around what you love: marine life, family discoveries, photography or time watching a favorite animal. Explore the Aquarium’s galleries, or see it with Visit Long Beach.
Our suggestion: choose two or three exhibits you especially want to see, then leave space for unexpected favorites. A visit feels different when there’s time to stop, watch and ask questions instead of moving straight to the next window.
Aquarium of the Pacific hours, location and tickets
- Address
- 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
- Usual hours
- Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time
- Annual closure
- Christmas Day, December 25
- Schedule changes
- Some dates have adjusted or extended hours; check the calendar for your visit
- Tickets
- Book on the official site; reservations are currently required on weekends and holidays
- Guest support
- (562) 590-3100
- Time to allow
- Roughly half a day for a relaxed visit (our suggestion)
Hours and the Christmas closure come from the Aquarium’s hours page. Confirm admission options and reservation rules on Plan Your Visit.
Getting there and parking
The Aquarium parking structure is on the water side of Shoreline Drive, between Chestnut Place and Aquarium Way. The Aquarium-validated rate is currently $8 for the day; bring your parking ticket and confirm validation when you arrive, and check the parking page for access notices before you set out. Official parking information.
What to see at the Aquarium of the Pacific
Sea otters
The Sea Otter Habitat has underwater viewing and the story of the animals’ lives and conservation. Give it extra time rather than expecting a particular behavior. Sea Otter Habitat.
Tropical reef life
The Tropical Pacific Gallery’s reef habitat holds sea turtles, sharks and a wide variety of fish, and can be seen from three viewing spots. Tropical Pacific Gallery.
Penguins and Shark Lagoon
See Magellanic penguins above and below the water at the June Keyes Penguin Habitat, then head outdoors to Shark Lagoon’s sharks, rays and touch pools. Penguins · Shark Lagoon.
Try this with children: pick one fish to follow with your eyes, then look for a different shape or color. It gives everyone a reason to slow down and notice more.
Sea jellies: a reason to linger
For a different pace, look for the sea jellies. The Jelly Dreamscapes exhibition pairs hundreds of them with meditative lighting and dreamlike soundscapes in the Pacific Visions gallery. It runs through April 30, 2027. Read the Aquarium’s announcement.
Exhibits, animal visibility and programs change, so check the day’s information and presentation schedule when you arrive.
A relaxed aquarium-and-waterfront day
- Start with the Aquarium. Choose your entry time first and arrange the day around it. On arrival, check the map and presentation schedule before picking your first stops.
- Build in a pause. Leave room for a meal and a break instead of treating every exhibit as a deadline. With family, let each person choose one stop they don’t want to miss.
- Finish around Rainbow Harbor. Shoreline Village has waterfront dining and shops for stretching out the afternoon, a meal or a gentle browse depending on everyone’s energy. Explore Shoreline Village.
A suggestion, not a timed tour: keep later reservations flexible.
A few things to know before you go
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light layer. Keep your admission confirmation easy to find, and allow time for parking and entry.
If accessibility affects your plans, review the Aquarium’s services before booking. Its exhibits are wheelchair accessible, wheelchairs can be borrowed free at the Information Desk, and there are resources for guests with vision or hearing needs. Guest support can answer questions about your visit. Accessibility information.
Aquarium of the Pacific questions
How long should we spend at the Aquarium?
We suggest roughly half a day so you can explore without rushing. Adjust for your group’s pace, breaks and any extra experiences you book.
Do we need reservations?
The Aquarium currently requires reservations on weekends and holidays. Check the rules for your ticket type and date before you go. Official admission information.
How much are Aquarium of the Pacific tickets?
Admission varies by age and package. The official booking page shows current prices, discounts and what’s included. Tickets and admission.
Is the Aquarium all indoors?
No. The indoor galleries are joined by outdoor areas, including Shark Lagoon, so bring a layer and plan for the weather. See Shark Lagoon.
Is it a good outing for adults as well as families?
Yes. Adults can take their time with the habitats and the stories behind them, while families can choose a smaller set of favorite stops. There’s no need to see everything at the same pace.
What else is nearby?
Shoreline Village, next to Rainbow Harbor, has dining and shops for after your visit. Waterfront dining ideas.
