10 Tips for Visiting the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California
1. Make an advanced reservation (currently required on weekends + holidays - check their web site for the latest info). Make it for the earliest possible time you want to enter… it’s okay if you’re late, but you can’t enter early.
2 Don’t miss the touch tanks: we love the moon jellies on outside patio and the tide pools inside the Pacific Northwest exhibit on the inside 2nd floor.
3 If you’re debating whether to bring a stroller… I’d probably bring it, especially if you have stuff to carry. You could possibly do without, but there is a decent walk from the parking structure, and visiting the different exhibits can be lots of walking for little ones.
4 Talk to volunteers! They’re knowledgable, friendly, and there to help you.
5 Be prepared to spend time both outdoors and indoors. On our most recent visit, it was one of the hottest days of the year and we still managed to spend 2 hours outside. Bring hats/jackets as needed. There’s also plenty to do inside!
6 Consider spending $4 to feed the lorikeets (parrots). It’s fun but can be a bit overwhelming, especially for little ones. I highly recommend walking through the aviary (free) first so your kids can get a feel for what it’s like, then circle back + pay $4 for food if desired.
7 Be ready to park in the structure for $8/car. You validate in the aquarium by the exit, then pay at the machines at the structure.
8 You can eat at their snack kiosks or Cafe Scuba, or pack your own food. Our favorite spot to eat is outside at the sea lion area, so we can watch them swim as we eat. There are steps to sit on, like a small amphitheater. (Use caution - we watched a little girl fall off the steps last week, but thankfully she was okay).
9 Consider upgrading your one-day ticket to a membership… that’s what we decided to do! This is a great place to visit over + over again, especially on hot/rainy days when outdoor options are limited.
10 Have extra time in the area? Consider visiting…
Mother’s Beach (off 2nd + Appian)
any of the beaches along the coast in Long Beach (we’ve enjoyed the one at Claremont Pl + Ocean Blvd)
walk around the beautiful homes at nearby Naples Canal.