Local’s Guide to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach

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There are a couple things in Los Angeles that are absolute 100% must-do’s in my book. Two of my favorites are Griffith Observatory and the Aquarium of the Pacific. I’m a Los Angeles native, so I’d like to think I know what I’m talking about. I’ve already written an in depth guide on Griffith (click here for that), so today I’m sharing everything you need to know about the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.

I’ve been visiting since I was a small child so by now I really know the inside scoop! Let’s dive in…pun intended.

What makes the Aquarium of the Pacific an absolute must-do?

I want to start this off by saying, I might be biased, BUT the Aquarium of the Pacific is my absolute 100% favorite aquarium that I have ever been to during all my travels. Period. I’ve been to aquariums around the world internationally and domestically and every time I’m a little disappointed that it doesn’t live up to the Aquarium of the Pacific. So what makes it so special?

1. It’s located in Los Angeles, so because the weather is basically beautiful year round, a large portion of the aquarium is outside. There’s something about actually seeing aquatic life in the sun and not fluorescent lights. Kids can play in a small outdoor water playground. You can venture through the Lorikeet Forest and see the brightly colored birds outside!

2. There is a huge shark and ray touch pool. Sting rays are my favorite animals and I could spend my entire day petting them. I honestly would pay the hefty admission for the rays alone. If that’s not enticing to you, find the other touch pools for sea anemones, star fish, and other sea friends.

3. The jellyfish exhibit is incredible! The Aquarium of the Pacific is home to 11 different types of jellyfish including sea jellies and comb jellies, some of which are bioluminescent!

4. There are so many other incredible exhibits featuring amazing aquatic life separated by marine environment, like Southern California/Baja, Northern Pacific, and Tropical Pacific. Some animals even have their own habitat, like sea otters, penguins, and frogs!

5. Conservation and education are top priorities of the Aquarium of the Pacific so when you visit you’re sure to learn about aquatic life conservation, environmental preservation, and the impact and importance of water! It’s a great place for everyone so even if you’re on a tight vacation budget, but have a little wiggle room for activities, I would consider visiting the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Where is the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach?

Driving:

Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802

The easiest way to park is to use the designated aquarium parking decks. Once you start approaching the aquarium, it will be clear where to park. There isn’t much directly next to the aquarium because it borders the ocean.

Parking in the deck costs $8 with validation. What this means is that in order to secure the parking cost of $8 (and not something higher), you need to bring your parking ticket into the Aquarium with you and ask an employee to validate it. They will stamp it so that when you exit the parking deck and enter your ticket, it will give you a lower fare.

Public Transportation:

Alternatively to driving, public transportation is available via the Los Angeles Metro, which costs $1.75 one way. The Aquarium of the Pacific is on the Metro A blue line and the closest stop is Downtown Long Beach.

Long Beach Transit also has a free shuttle that runs throughout downtown to the Aquarium and Queen Mary. If you’re spending the day in Long Beach, this is a good option to get around.

Cost of Admission with Money-Saving Tips:

General admission is $45 for adults, $35 for children, and $41 for seniors. Sometimes, there are options for package tickets that come with admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific, Queen Mary, USS Iowa, a whale watching cruise, and harbor tour. These packages vary seasonally so check the Aquarium’s website for more ticket options.

As for saving a bit of money, there are sometimes ticket discounts for a number of things so choose accordingly: AAA discount (you need to present your card), military (with ID), and coupons scattered throughout local businesses. If there are active discounts direct from the Aquarium, you can find them here. Either way, doesn’t hurt to ask.

Other things to note:

• No outside food or beverages are allowed. However, there is a café inside. There is a nice terrace out front so you can eat your own food or beverages there before entering the Aquarium.
• There is no re-entry. If you leave, that’s it. So don’t forget anything in the car!
• Because a portion of the aquarium is outside, bring sunblock and hats. If it’s winter, it can get chilly so plan accordingly. A light jacket and a hat is usually fine.

My Travel Essentials

• Travel Insurance – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing.
• Travel Card – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com, the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
• Give the Gift of Travel – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
• Staycation Idea – Check out Resort Pass, which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

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