Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is home to a massive collection of marine life and primarily focuses on species native to Southern California waters as well as community outreach and education. The museum's focus shows off different animal habitats and features touch tanks for a more up-close and personal experience.
All ages are welcome at this museum, and you'll find different lessons designed for specific age groups. It takes about 2 hours to experience most of what the museum has to offer, but most visitors find themselves staying closer to 3 to take in and understand all the exhibits.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in Los Angeles - one of the highlights of 14 Best Family Things to Do in Los Angeles (Read all about Los Angeles here)
photo by Jllm06 (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium highlights
The exhibits here are split up into 3 primary sections. First, you'll find the Southern California Marine Habitats Hall, which showcases 5 different habitats local marine life calls home. The second portion is the Aquatic Nursery, which showcases more than 40 species and how to care for them.
If you have kids with you, you won't want to miss out on the Exploration Centre. Here, you'll find unique exhibits like a crawl-in aquarium where little ones can crawl inside and find themselves surrounded by fish. Plus, they can visit the mud walkthrough, a unique exhibit that offers a worm's eye view of the mud.
Good to know when visiting Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
One of the best aspects of this aquarium is its affordability—admission is completely free. You are welcome to make a donation if you like, however, as every little bit helps keep this institution accessible for everyone.
When you visit this aquarium, you'll find yourself in the San Pedro area and near its appealing attractions, so you can make a day of it. Just a short distance to the west, you can visit the Korean Friendship Bell and the Point Fermin Lighthouse. Head west, and you'll find yourself on Cabrillo Beach in just a few steps.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in Los Angeles
Location: 3720 Stephen M White Dr, San Pedro, CA 90731, USA
Open: Tuesday–Friday from noon to 5 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
Phone: +1 310-548-7562
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