Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
San Pedro, CA
Free (suggested donation)
By Simir Shah
★★★★★4.6(4,794 Google reviews)
What parents say
AI summary of 5 Google reviews — not a first-hand visit. How we write these
Entry is free with a suggested donation and reviewers call parking cheap, but the lot takes card and not cash. It is small and quick to get through, better suited to younger kids. Restrooms are described as clean and well stocked. Renovations have kept parts closed, so check what is open before setting out.
A free, 21,000-square-foot aquarium devoted entirely to Southern California marine life, housing the region's largest such collection. Exhibits recreate five regional habitats — from sandy beach to kelp forest to open ocean — and the Children's Exploration Center's touch tank lets kids handle sea stars, anemones, and urchins.
Good for
- Ages 0–2
- Ages 10+
- Stroller-friendly
- Shade
- Nap-schedule friendly
- Sensory-friendly
- Restrooms
- Works for a wide age range
Happening near here
- Autism Families Night at the Aquarium of the PacificLong Beach · 6 mi
- Thursday Night Market (Weekend Night Market)Long Beach · 7 mi · Thursdays 5–9pmFree
- Formula Drift Pro Championship Round 8 (Long Beach)Long Beach · 7 mi
- MOLAA Free SundaysLong Beach · 7 mi · Sundays 11am–5pmFree
3720 Stephen M White Dr, San Pedro, CA 90731, USA
Hours via Google — confirm before a special trip.
Map
What visitors say
- Mr. Baker★★★★★
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is truly a Los Angeles treasure. I’ve been coming here for years, since I was in high school, and it’s beautiful to see how much it has grown while still keeping its small, welcoming aquarium feel. For their 90th anniversary, I really appreciate the upgrades they’ve made. The aquarium feels more modernized, the exhibits are beautiful, and there is so much to learn, but it still feels personal and connected to the community. I also love that it is free to the public, with the option to donate and support the work they do. This is a great place for children and families. They offer hands-on activities for younger kids, whale watching experiences, beach cleanup days, and educational programs for schools and field trips. As someone in education, I really value places like this that make learning fun, accessible, and meaningful. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a special place, and I’m grateful it continues serving the community after 90 years.
4 months ago
- Jonathan Lechuga★★★★★
I recently attended a KCRW event at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and was surprised I'd never been before. It's a beautiful aquarium with a great mix of exhibits, interactive touch tanks, and educational displays focused on Southern California marine life. Admission is free with a suggested donation, making it an affordable outing for families. The staff and volunteers were friendly, and the whole place had a welcoming atmosphere. If you're looking for something fun and educational plus cost effective then I definitely recommend this
3 months ago
Showing 2 of 5 Google reviews · Read them all on Google Maps
Nearby places
Keep planning
Eat nearby in San Pedro
- J. Trani'sPizza & Italian · $$
- The Chori-ManMexican & Tacos · $