Aquarium of the Pacific Travel Guide

The five-acre facility on waterfront property in downtown Long Beach features 17 habitats and more than 12,000 birds, fish, mammals, and amphibians, representing nearly 500 species. Featuring 19 major habitats and 32 focus exhibits, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a world-class aquarium celebrating the Pacific Ocean- the world's largest and most diverse body of water. Each species displayed according to which part of the Pacific it comes from, whether Southern California and Baja, the Northern Pacific, or the Tropical Pacific. Several experience areas allow visitors to actually touch and feel various animals life- great fun for children and adults alike.

Major exhibits include:
Shark Lagoon- The shark lagoon features over 100 different sharks and rays, some of which you are able to touch, and some you wouldn't want to! The outdoor exhibit area includes a cafe and gift shop.
Northern Pacific Gallery- Covering over 800,000 square miles between Alaska, Siberia, the Bering Strait, and the Aleutian Islands, the Bering Sea, the northernmost region of the Pacific Ocean is home to playful otters and the giant Pacific octopus.
Southern California/Baja Gallery- Extending 800 miles bewtween Mexico and Oregon, the coastal waters of California contain a wide range of water temperatures, creating many diverse ecosystems for the animals that live there.
Gulf of California- The Gulf of California is one of the world's most biologically productive and diverse seas, home to many unique species. Whales, sharks, marlins, and giant Humbolt Squid all make their way through the waters to migrate or spawn.
Tropical Pacific Gallery- The 80-degree waters of Micronesia contain more than 2,000 islands and the surrounding waters contain an amazing variety of fish, coral, and other marine life.
Lorikeet Forest- Enter into this 3,200 sq. ft. outdoor aviary and get close-up with more than 100 colorful Lorikeets. Most are very tame and will climb on your hand to eat some nectar from a cup.

Certain exhibit areas have scheduled performances throughout the day. Inside the main building, two theaters screen short films throughout the day (extra admission charge is required).

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