Unmissable Things to Do at Aquarium of the Pacific

Feel the Wonder of the Aquarium of the Pacific

Step into a living, breathing ocean world right in the heart of Long Beach, California. At the Aquarium of the Pacific, visitors are immersed in the vibrant ecosystems of the Pacific Rim — from frigid Arctic waters to coral-rich reefs of Micronesia. With over 12,000 marine animals and hands-on encounters at every turn, it’s one of the West Coast’s top educational and family-friendly destinations.

This guide reveals the must-see attractions, cultural highlights, and unforgettable encounters that define the Aquarium of the Pacific — from jellyfish tunnels to shark touch pools and environmental innovation exhibits. Aquarium of the Pacific Tours

Why Visit These Aquarium of the Pacific Attractions?

The Aquarium of the Pacific isn’t just a place to look at sea life — it’s an immersive experience that blends conservation, culture, and hands-on learning. Built to reflect the biodiversity of the Pacific Ocean’s three main regions (Southern California/Baja, Northern Pacific, and Tropical Pacific), each exhibit showcases ecosystems, threats, and wonders with stunning attention to detail.

Visitors can touch rays and moon jellies, watch sea otters dive and play, explore coral lagoons, and experience the cultural stories of Pacific Island nations through immersive galleries and film. The aquarium is also a recognized leader in ocean conservation and green innovation.

It’s perfect for travelers with kids, ocean lovers, science buffs, and anyone seeking an educational escape in Southern California.

Iconic Landmarks and Historic Exhibits

Blue Cavern Habitat

This towering three-story tank replicates a kelp forest off Catalina Island, home to leopard sharks, giant sea bass, and schools of sardines. It’s visible from multiple floors and is often used for live dive shows.

• Why it matters: Represents one of California’s most critical marine environments and helps educate about local conservation.
• Tips: Check the daily schedule for live dive presentations narrated in real time.

Tropical Pacific Gallery

Modeled after Palau’s vibrant reef systems, this gallery dazzles with colorful fish, coral displays, and a tunnel that surrounds you with blacktip reef sharks and tropical rays.

• Why it matters: Showcases the fragile beauty of coral ecosystems and the impacts of climate change.
• Tips: This is a quieter area in the early morning or late afternoon. Great for wide-angle photography.

Northern Pacific Gallery

Cold-water creatures rule here — including puffins, giant Pacific octopuses, and mesmerizing moon jellies. The sea otter habitat is a guest favorite.

• Why it matters: Brings the wild Alaska and Pacific Northwest coast to Southern California, helping raise awareness about melting ice and shifting ecosystems.

Ocean Science Center

Features a NOAA-sponsored 3D Earth exhibit that displays real-time ocean data, climate change patterns, and hurricane tracking.

• Why it matters: Makes abstract environmental data engaging for all ages.
• Tips: Interactive screens allow visitors to explore everything from ocean acidification to sea-level rise.

Museums, Galleries & Cultural Spaces

Pacific Visions Wing

Opened in 2019, this $53 million expansion includes an immersive theater with a 180-degree screen, multimedia exhibits, and art installations linking nature, technology, and culture.

• What to Expect: The main show is a multisensory experience combining visuals, scents, and vibration to simulate the future of the ocean.
• Planning Tips: Included with general admission. Check showtimes and arrive 10 minutes early for the best seats.

Cultural Exhibits & Festivals

Throughout the year, the Aquarium hosts cultural weekends highlighting Pacific Rim communities — including Polynesian, Southeast Asian, Latino, and Indigenous coastal cultures.

• Why it matters: Promotes cultural understanding of ocean stewardship from diverse perspectives.

Natural Attractions & Outdoor Exhibits

Shark Lagoon

This open-air area allows you to touch small bamboo sharks and rays, or watch larger sand tiger and nurse sharks swim in deeper pools.

• What to Do: Let your hands trail over soft-skinned rays or explore educational signs around the lagoon.
• Visitor Tips: Open later than indoor exhibits and included in general admission.

Lorikeet Forest

A walkthrough aviary where brilliantly colored lorikeets land on visitors to drink nectar.

• Why it matters: Introduces kids to tropical bird behavior and promotes gentle, respectful wildlife interaction.
• Safety Note: Watch your step — lorikeets are curious and may land unexpectedly!

Moon Jelly Touch Lab

Glide your hands over the tops of moon jellies in a softly lit touch tank.

• Planning Tip: Ask staff about jellyfish reproduction — this exhibit often includes baby jellies under magnifiers.

Harbor Terrace & Our Water Future

A rooftop exhibit showing Southern California’s urban water cycle, sustainability practices, and interactive elements for children.

• Educational Focus: Urban runoff, reclaimed water, drought strategies.

Unique & Unexpected Places to Visit

Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Offered as add-ons, these guided tours take visitors into staff-only areas including food prep rooms, quarantine tanks, and above the largest habitats.

• Why it matters: Offers insight into animal care, sustainability, and ocean health initiatives.

Animal Encounters

Premium experiences where you can feed sea otters, harbor seals, or meet penguins up close.

• What to Expect: 30-minute educational encounters with trainers and animals.
• Tips: Book in advance. These sell out fast, especially on weekends.

Aquarium Gift Shop & Cafe Scuba

Find sustainable ocean-themed products, art, and books in the gift shop. Cafe Scuba offers responsibly sourced meals with harbor views.

• Sustainability Note: The Aquarium avoids single-use plastics and features local produce and seafood.

How to Plan Your Attraction Visits at the Aquarium

• Best Times: Arrive early to beat school groups. Weekdays are quieter.
• Admission Options: General admission, plus VIP animal encounters or behind-the-scenes tours.
• Parking: Public parking garage next door. Bring validation ticket for discounted rate.
• Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant. Wheelchairs available.
• Dining: Cafe Scuba, snack carts, and picnic tables by the harbor.
• Family Tips: Touch pools and Lorikeet Forest are favorites. Bring extra clothes for wet zones.
• Transit: Walkable from Downtown Long Beach or take the Aqualink ferry from nearby coastal points.

When to Visit These Attractions

• Spring (March–May): Pleasant weather, blooming waterfront flowers, and moderate crowds.
• Summer (June–August): Peak season — arrive at opening for best experience.
• Fall (September–October): Excellent for fewer visitors and ongoing marine events.
• Winter (November–February): Holiday events, indoor comfort, and lowest crowds. Check for annual maintenance closures.

Weather in Long Beach, California

Long Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making the Aquarium of the Pacific a year-round destination.

• Spring: 65–75°F (18–24°C), mostly sunny. Light jackets recommended.
• Summer: 75–85°F (24–29°C), occasional marine layer in mornings. Sunscreen needed.
• Fall: 70–80°F (21–27°C), ideal mix of sun and cooler evenings.
• Winter: 60–70°F (15–21°C), light rain possible. Ideal for indoor attractions.

Plan with Confidence: View 7-day forecasts on MeteoBlue – Long Beach Weather.

Travel Advisory for Aquarium of the Pacific

There are currently no travel advisories affecting access to the Aquarium of the Pacific. However, travelers should be aware of the following:

• Health & Safety: Handwashing stations and sanitizers are located throughout the facility. Stay home if feeling unwell.
• Tickets: Advance reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and holiday breaks.
• School Groups: Peak times for field trips are weekdays from 10 AM–1 PM. Avoid this window for quieter visits.
• Security & Bags: All bags subject to search. Outside food allowed in designated areas only.
• Emergency Info: On-site security and trained first-aid personnel are available. Nearest hospital: St. Mary’s Medical Center (approx. 10 minutes away).

Travel Tips for Seeing the Best of the Aquarium of the Pacific

• Book online and arrive early to avoid school groups.
• Start with the Northern Pacific Gallery and work clockwise.
• Plan animal encounters or behind-the-scenes tours in advance.
• Download the Aquarium app for maps, schedules, and audio guides.
• Avoid midday weekends if you’re crowd-averse.
• Bring a refillable water bottle — fountains are available.
• Allow 2–3 hours for a full visit; 4+ if doing extra tours.
• Take the harbor walk afterward for ocean views and local eateries.

Explore Viator Tours Around the Aquarium of the Pacific

Illuminated Swan Boat Night Ride on Rainbow Lagoon
Pedal through Rainbow Lagoon after dark; enjoy ambient lights and a romantic atmosphere for couples or families Illuminated Swan Boat Night Ride on Rainbow Lagoon.

Aquarium of the Pacific General Admission Ticket
Skip the ticket line and enjoy full access to exhibits, touch tanks, 4D shows, Pacific Visions, and seasonal events like “Frogs: Facing a Changing World” Aquarium of the Pacific Tours and Tickets.

Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach
Embark on a 2–2.5‑hour narrated catamaran cruise from Rainbow Harbor with an Aquarium of the Pacific naturalist on board. Spot gray whales, blue whales (seasonal), dolphins, sea lions, and enjoy on‑deck commentary .
A small-group experience (max 6 guests) highlighting dolphins, whales, and sea lions. Includes local landmarks and personalized narration Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach.

Long Beach Harbor 45‑Minute Boat Tour
A scenic harbor cruise exploring the Port of Long Beach, featuring sea lions, container ships, the Queen Mary, and harbor history narration Top Long Beach Cruises & Sailing.

Ready to dive into ocean discovery, hands-on encounters, and cultural inspiration? Discover unforgettable things to do at Aquarium of the Pacific — and start planning with Things to do in Long Beach and Long Beach Tours today.

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