Quick Navigation show

Unforgettable Aquarium of the Pacific Tours – Explore the Best Things to Do

Dive into one of Southern California’s most beloved marine experiences with these unforgettable Aquarium of the Pacific tours. Whether you’re fascinated by jellyfish, enchanted by sea otters, or eager to explore behind the scenes, this Long Beach gem offers far more than fish tanks.

Start your adventure with these handpicked Aquarium of the Pacific tours and experiences you’ll never forget.

Why Take a Tour at the Aquarium of the Pacific?

Located along Long Beach’s scenic waterfront, the Aquarium of the Pacific is more than a family outing — it’s an educational gateway to the Pacific Ocean’s ecosystems. With over 12,000 animals and dozens of immersive exhibits, taking a tour adds depth to the experience by offering insider access, storytelling, and hands-on encounters that general admission simply can’t match.

From private behind-the-scenes access to early-entry experiences and animal encounters, these tours are crafted for curious travelers, families, marine life lovers, and anyone looking to make the most of their time in Southern California.

Top Aquarium of the Pacific Tours by Theme

Iconic Landmarks & Skip-the-Line Experiences

Beat the crowds and get priority access with early bird or VIP admission experiences. Skip-the-line Aquarium of the Pacific tours typically include:

Early Access Private Tours: Explore the exhibits before the general public arrives, with a marine educator guiding you through the most popular areas including Shark Lagoon, Tropical Pacific, and the immersive Honda Blue Cavern.
VIP Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Get an exclusive look into the aquarium’s operations, from food prep areas and animal care zones to filtration systems and behind-the-glass perspectives of massive marine habitats.

These experiences not only save time but enhance your visit with expert-led insights and stories that bring each exhibit to life.

Recommended Aquarium of the Pacific Tours

Local Food, Markets & Cooking Tours

While the Aquarium doesn’t offer in-house food tours, many combo experiences pair your visit with delicious detours through the nearby Shoreline Village or Downtown Long Beach. Book Long Beach tours that include:

Aquarium + Lunch Cruise Combos: Begin your day with marine wonders, then head out on a harbor cruise with gourmet lunch and ocean views.
Aquarium + Walking Food Tour: Explore Long Beach’s growing culinary scene with tastings at local eateries, then relax with sea lions and jellies in the afternoon.

Taste your way through Long Beach while still getting your fill of sea life.

Nature, Adventure & Outdoor Excursions

Pair your Aquarium visit with water-based adventures for an unforgettable day in Southern California:

Whale Watching + Aquarium Packages: Long Beach is one of the best whale watching spots on the West Coast. Book a combo tour that includes aquarium entry and a two-hour marine wildlife cruise.
Harbor Kayaking or Paddleboard Tours: Glide across the calm waters of Rainbow Harbor just outside the aquarium for a peaceful view of Long Beach’s coastline and skyline.

These packages are perfect for active travelers or those with a love of ocean exploration.

Hidden Gems & Alternative Tours

For travelers seeking something off the beaten path:

Aquarium of the Pacific After Hours: Visit during special twilight events or night tours, offering a quieter ambiance and access to unique talks, film screenings, and feeding demonstrations.
Animal Encounter Tours: From feeding a sea lion to touching a moon jelly, these intimate tours allow you to connect with ocean life in a truly personal way.

Great for repeat visitors or slow travelers who want to go deeper than just walking the exhibit halls.

Must-See Day Trips from the Aquarium of the Pacific

Planning a longer stay in Southern California? These day trips from Long Beach make for easy, enriching add-ons to your aquarium visit:

Catalina Island (1 hr by ferry) – Hike, snorkel, or zipline in this island paradise just off the coast. Many tours offer ferry + activity bundles.
Los Angeles Highlights Tour (45 min drive) – Combine your aquarium experience with Hollywood landmarks, Santa Monica Pier, and Griffith Observatory.
Orange County Coastline (30 min south) – Head down Pacific Coast Highway for beaches, tide pools, and charming towns like Laguna Beach.
Whale Watching in Newport or Dana Point – Extend your marine education with another coastal cruise from California’s top cetacean-watching hubs.

Book unforgettable day tours from Long Beach and unlock more coastal wonders.

What Makes Aquarium of the Pacific Tours Unique?

This isn’t your average aquarium. Tours here are powered by marine biologists, conservation experts, and educators committed to ocean stewardship. What makes them truly unique:

Multilingual Guides: Available in Spanish, Mandarin, and other languages on request.
Focus on Pacific Habitats: Unlike East Coast aquariums, this one focuses exclusively on the Pacific Rim — from Baja to the Arctic Circle.
Award-Winning Design: The aquarium’s immersive exhibits, like the wave-simulating Northern Pacific gallery, are masterpieces of architecture and science.

Spotlight Experience: Behind-the-Scenes Discovery Tour

Step into the animal care zone where divers feed sharks and staff prep thousands of meals daily. Learn how jellyfish are bred, and witness coral tank maintenance up close. Ideal for science lovers and teens.

How to Choose the Right Tour at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Here’s how to narrow your choices:

Short on time? Opt for a 1-hour Express Highlights Tour.
Visiting with kids? Choose family-friendly packages that include animal encounters or touch pools.
Couples or solo travelers? Twilight events or cruise combos add romance or solitude.
Luxury or private options? Book a custom VIP tour with personalized attention.
Outdoor lovers? Add kayaking or a harbor wildlife cruise to your day.

For more planning guidance, explore our full Long Beach Travel Guide.

Best Time of Year for Aquarium of the Pacific Tours

Spring: Milder temps and blooming harbor flowers. Ideal for outdoor combos like kayaking + aquarium.
Summer: High season. Expect crowds, but enjoy extended hours, summer festivals, and vibrant marine life displays.
Fall: Fewer tourists, cooler evenings, and calm ocean conditions for cruises and whale watching.
Winter: Quietest season. Great for indoor-only tours and behind-the-scenes learning. Whale migration begins in January.

Travel Tips for Booking Aquarium of the Pacific Tours

Book Early: VIP and animal tours have limited slots and often sell out on weekends.
Bundle Smart: Save by purchasing combo tickets with other Long Beach attractions or cruises.
Dress for Both Indoors & Outdoors: Indoor areas are cool; outdoor touch tanks are sun-exposed.
Use Tour Apps: Download Long Beach Visitors Guide apps or Viator’s mobile ticket tools.
Bring Your Curiosity: Some tours are hands-on — don’t be afraid to ask questions or engage with guides.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aquarium of the Pacific Tours

Are Aquarium of the Pacific tours worth it?
Absolutely — they offer interactive learning, VIP access, and unforgettable wildlife moments.
What’s the best tour for first-time visitors?
The Behind-the-Scenes Discovery Tour balances highlights with insider access.
How much do Aquarium tours cost?
Expect $45–$85 per person for most guided experiences; combo tours may range higher.
Do tours operate in bad weather?
Yes — most tours are indoors or include indoor alternatives. Cruises may reschedule if needed.
Can I book a tour day-of?
Sometimes, but advanced booking is highly recommended for exclusive experiences.