Acuario Marino Cabrillo

Experiencia fantástica: I loved the aquarium and appreciate what the workers do for the animals. Even though some of the exhibits are closed, they still made it an enjoyable and interactive experience. I can't wait to visit again when all the exhibits are open!

Experiencia negativa: The place sucks they don't let service dogs in so that kept me out because I need my dog with me very disrespectful

Experiencia fantástica: We love to visit the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and are excited for when the main exhibit hall reopens. The staff are friendly and informative. Come for a grunion run if you can.

Experiencia positiva: Aquarium is small but enjoyable. Especially the nursery. Parking is $1 an hour, and it's a nice way to spend the day if you add in the beach and tide pools. The swings and playground on the beach also nice. Bathrooms are easily accessible.

Experiencia positiva: It’s a nice small place. Saw some really cool stuff in there.

Experiencia fantástica: It's amazing place for both kids and adults but unfortunately it's closed now for renovations this is June 2025 and staff said it will be reopen early 2026

Experiencia negativa: Nobody updated that the aquarium was still closed. We drove 2 hrs to get here. It was not worth it and the people were questionable that were there.

Experiencia fantástica: Great place to take your kids to.

Experiencia fantástica: Great hands on place for kids. Not expensive, donation to enter.

Experiencia fantástica: great little free aquarium touch pool is always a hit They also have community events and conservation projects where they give back to the San Pedro community.

Experiencia fantástica: Aquarium is free, but donations are welcome Awesome place to go with the family! You can touch baby sharks The nursery and educational center is fun to observe. It will only get better in the Fall of 2026. Consider going to the gift shop it's full of great suveniors,toys,baby items, and more.

Experiencia positiva: Nice little aquarium. However, I didn't realize the exhibit hall was closed during our most recent visit. The "exploration" education center was open and fun for the kids at least.

Experiencia positiva: Main exhibit is under reconstruction butcher grunion hatching was fun

Experiencia fantástica: Staff was so friendly. It was a great way to spend an hour with kids

Experiencia fantástica: We went for the grunion hatching and it was very informative and fun. All my family loved it.

Experiencia positiva: It was 85% closed due to remodeling.. but they had 2 small sections open plus and outside fish tank where people can touch the little sharks plus they did demonstration on hatching the grunion eggs which was pretty cool

Experiencia fantástica: I have fond memories of visiting this aquarium as a child—my very first field trip was here. I remember being completely captivated by the vibrant tanks and the incredible variety of sea life. It sparked a fascination with marine animals that has stayed with me ever since. Today, the aquarium remains a wonderful place to explore and learn. It offers an engaging, educational experience for visitors of all ages, with exhibits that highlight the beauty and complexity of ocean ecosystems. From jellyfish and sea turtles to sharks and colorful reef fish, the displays provide an up-close look at creatures from all over the world’s oceans. The aquarium also emphasizes the importance of marine conservation, shedding light on the fragile balance of underwater ecosystems and the threats they face from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. One of the standout aspects of the aquarium is its dedicated and knowledgeable staff. They’re always available to answer questions, provide interesting facts, and enhance the visitor experience with their passion for ocean life. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after many years, this aquarium continues to be a place of wonder, discovery, and learning for everyone who walks through its doors.

Experiencia fantástica: Free to enter, though recommended donations are displayed (and worth doing) This was a lovely centre which balances education with fun for all ages. There is a wealth of information, made accessible to all and I heartily recommend you visit.

Experiencia positiva: Took my daughter for a nice date, but we found out half of the aquarium was closed due to remodeling. Only 2 sections were open, and she got to touch the sharks

Experiencia fantástica: Lovely little aquarium with friendly staff and a large variety of animals to watch and touch. Adjacent to tide pools that provide a real look at sea life in the actual sea! The Family Membership is reasonably priced and worthwhile for multiple visits per year.

Experiencia fantástica: GREAT SUMMER SPORTS, GREAT COACHES. STAFF IS AWESOME, FRIENDLY & KIND. BEACH IS CLEAN, GREAT PLACE TO HAVE FAMILY GATHERINGS.

Experiencia negativa: the black girl and white girl greeting is that day were rude and acted like they’re hard of hearing nothing to see here everything was shut down (main hall under renovation until 2026…) if you want donations get volunteers that have good hospitality and manners at the very least

Experiencia positiva: A lot of it was closed for construction. What was available was cool. I would have been really annoyed if it wasn't donation entry. Parking was cheap, a couple of bucks compared to the other beaches. It was cold and windy the day we went but the beach and playground looked clean. I'm not sure we'll be back to the aquarium. We'll probably come back for the other museums near by and to try the trolley/beach.

Experiencia fantástica: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a great spot to bring the kids for a quick and educational visit. Although most of the facility is currently closed for renovations, the small section that remains open is still engaging and well worth the trip. Located right next to the beach, the aquarium offers the bonus of a nearby playground and benches, making it easy to extend your visit with some outdoor fun. It’s a simple, low-key outing that combines learning and nature in one convenient stop.

Experiencia fantástica: We're members and also came in with a school field trip today! It was so much fun and the staff here are so great at what they do! The kids and parents learned a lot!

Experiencia positiva: I only give 3 stars bc the main exhibit is closed. They're renovating it, it hasn't been renovated since the 80s so, I can't wait to see the new upgrade early 2026.

Experiencia fantástica: This was a great visit but it's under construction currently. My little ones still enjoyed it. I just wish they could have gotten the full experience. Staff were amazing and kind.

Experiencia fantástica: An amazing aquarium to go to for a fun little outing. Lots of interactive things to do. Right across the parking lot from the beach so it's perfect to make a day out of it. I've lived in Pedro all my life and will never get bored of it. They also host activities outside of the aquarium like the grunion run, beach cleanup etc.

Experiencia fantástica: Free admission! It's somewhat small, but a good place to take your family on the weekends!

Experiencia positiva: Love visiting every time I'm in San Pedro. Lots to see and do at this aquarium.

Experiencia fantástica: Really excited to see what new things they have in store for this place . Even though it’s remodeling they still have a neat mini area of things for people to touch and look at definitely a check out!

Experiencia fantástica: To be honest, this place is killing aquarium of the Pacific. It's free to enter, and it has everything you need from an aquarium. Shark petting, a ton of information. I absolutely love it. Thank you San pedro.

Experiencia fantástica: Still one of the best, most informative museums I've ever been to. Can't recommend enough, great for adults and children alike.

Experiencia fantástica: Small, but fun to walk around with little ones. The place is currently still under renovation. It's still nice for a good 30 minutes with toddlers.

Experiencia fantástica: Great small aquarium! Parking is $1 per hour and the aquarium is free, so it’s a great cheap activity. Plus, there’s tide pools close by!

Experiencia fantástica: I love this place. Cute, small non-commercial place with dedicated staff makes for a fun morning or afternoon. I have been at least a dozen times over the years and each time is a pleasure. Although not easy to get there by bus, the surrounding area is full of stuff to do like the beach and hiking.

Experiencia fantástica: Nice smaller aquarium. Free admission (donation accepted). Although main exhibit hall is being renovated, the other exhibits were fun to look at

Experiencia positiva: We visited while they were under construction and were still able to see some pretty cool organisms. We watched a clip on nightlife, then explored the museum. Got to touch a baby shark egg that was maturing in a tank, and see our first seahorses in real life along with some sharks and others. Unfortunately, no pictures as I was being present in my experience. It’s definitely a quick and inexpensive adventure to have with kids as it’s free and parking is cheap. There is also a beach nearby for exploring.

Experiencia negativa: This was my 2nd time here. The first time was great. It was very interactive and fun for the children. So, I was looking forward to returning. Unfortunately, the main area was closed, and the areas that were open were no longer interactive. I regretted recommending this aquarium to friends. It was very disappointing!

Experiencia positiva: This is a lovely small aquarium! Your kids can have a great time playing, exploring, and even touching some of the exhibits.

Experiencia fantástica: honestly my daughters favorite aquarium we love it from the touching tank to all the activities they have for the kids are just amazing the staff are so knowledgeable and friendly perfect for any day of fun learning

Experiencia fantástica: It was fun and free aquarium. Parking is for $1 per hour. Closed to playground and beach. Will visit again next time.

Experiencia fantástica: This is a cool little marine viewing tanks. Shows the local fish and marine life. I took my 8 month old granddaughter. She seemed to be mesmerized at the fish. Didn't have time to see everything. I donated around $20. For the entry. Everyone should donate, they have a nice aquarium going on and it could go to something good. The place is clean and it has a gift shop.

Experiencia fantástica: This is the best small Marine museum that I have been to. Very interesting. Well maintained. Clever displays allowing kids to interact with the environment. Very reasonable entry fees. $1 for children. $5 for adults $3 for senior citizens.

Experiencia fantástica: We had the Thompson Family Reunion here in late August. The children were thrilled to be there and some toured 3 to 4 times. Excellent staff, friendly and knowledgeable.

Experiencia positiva: Very cool place. Super nice and informative girls at the entrance

Experiencia fantástica: Lots of interesting staff, for kids from 4 to 15. Free of charge, but it's recommended to make a donation 7$ adults, 3$ kids

Experiencia fantástica: Great place to visit with family. It was optional to pay to go in, but we did because every little bit helps. We were surprised that many people chose to just walk in without donating at least a few dollars. The staff were very knowledgeable and so kind. They took time to explain to my boys about the animals there. Easy parking and access to the beach right after. Made for a great day! Facility was clean and nice.

Experiencia fantástica: It's small, it's old and a bit dated, it was full of kids running about making noise and it was wonderful! We saw some really neat fish and learned some stuff about our coastline. It isn't as cool as that other aquarium over the bridges but it's a whole lot less money so if you're on a budget, with a lot of other inexpensive things to do in the area, I definitely recommend!

Experiencia fantástica: Amazing aquarium where I was able to see some things for the first time in my life. They also have a lot of hands on learning exhibits, as well as making parts that are usually behind the scenes, a part of the aquarium. Delightful staff as well. If you are in the area definitely stop by.

Experiencia fantástica: Super cute place and definitely bigger than it looks.

Experiencia fantástica: It was actually a great place to explore, not to mention, it’s free admission (suggested donation $7/adult, $3/kid) Parking rate is fare too ($1 per hour) Bonus points: Cabrillo beach is just across the street. Highly recommend!

Experiencia fantástica: The coolest free aquarium I ever did see!

Experiencia fantástica: Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, California, offers a charming coastal escape with a rich history and diverse attractions. The beach is split into two areas: the inner harbor, ideal for families and windsurfers, and the outer beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Cabrillo Beach boasts beautiful views, tide pools, and a historic bathhouse. The nearby Cabrillo Marine Aquarium adds an educational element to your visit, and ample picnic areas make it great for a day out. However, the water quality can sometimes be an issue, so it's wise to check current conditions before heading out. Overall, it's a lovely spot for relaxation and exploration. Love spending time at Cabrillo Beach! Visited 4th of July!

Experiencia fantástica: Our daughters had an amazing time at this aquarium. Smaller than Long Beach, but they were still able to learn and experience a lot during their time there. The beach shares the same parking lot so we were able to spend time there. We had a blast and we cannot wait to go back!

Experiencia positiva: Great little museum, looked good for a family. Unfortunately our little one was too little, but he still loved looking at all the big aquariums they have. I would recommend waiting until your baby can sit up by themselves to go! All the artwork was pretty and every exhibit was informative. Would come again once my baby is old enough! Left a small donation before the tour, but it's free to go in.

Experiencia fantástica: I haven’t been to this place for years. One of my daughters suggested we all go as a family with my grandkids and all. Glad we did. This little place has a lot of great sea creatures to keep little ones and older ones interested. Each area was as interesting as the next. For being a small aquarium it had a big impact. At certain times they open there tide pool area and an employee gives information about the creatures you are able to touch and answers your questions if you have any. *Admission is on a donation basis. So for those who either can give or not, all are welcome. Which is great bc money can be tight and it’s hard to have a little outdoor fun sometimes so this is perfect not only bc of that but bc you can head down to the beach and enjoy the sand and water before or after. A whole day can be made of this adventure for the kids or yourself. We chose to walk down to the tide pools. Kids can walk it too. We did go on a Sunday at 11ish we entered. So at this time there was a handful of people but definitely not overwhelming. There is also a gift shop if interested and a decorative wall for pictures. Staff was nice and helpful throughout.

Experiencia fantástica: Love this aquarium, it feels very intimate. It’s not very big to begin with compared to the one in Long Beach however it’s FREE! They have a couple rooms to see different marine animals, and a pool where you can touch marine life open every hour. They also have outside activities to participate in. Great place to take the kids, and once your done you can walk towards the beach and play in the playground.

Experiencia fantástica: Amazing aquarium with the charm of the classic aquariums we have when growing up. There is the strong archive feel and less glamour of what you’ll find at other aquariums but it’s still lovely none the less. Went on a KCRW night to see the grunions and the aquarium had so much staff available to answer questions.

Experiencia fantástica: The parking was good with easy access to the aquarium, beach, and tidal pools. The aquarium was not too large but was very interesting.

Experiencia positiva: KCRW summer at this darling little aquarium with these amazingly cute, beautiful and strange sea creatures. Afterwards everyone went down to the beach for the fun Grunion run!

Experiencia fantástica: This was a great experience today, cool for a great experience I loved it. So cool to have this great aquarium close to my home. I definitely will visit again

Experiencia positiva: What a enjoyable visit to this aquarium! Our child had a great learning experience exploring the features. They had unique sea animals (i.e. magnified baby jellyfish, huge lobster, and more) for the size of the aquarium. The cons are small facilities (they do have room for expansion) and small parking toll (wasn't mentioned on their site). When we revisit, we will bring a picnic blanket and food since the aquarium next to a small cove/beach and playground for kids.

Experiencia fantástica: This is a great experience for kids and families. It's not huge but very much worth the visit. The staff are so kind and great with people not just kids! We had a great time on our trip and will return. Parking is super reasonable ($1 per hour). The scenery with the beach just being across the parking lot is a beautiful and calm setting to be in.

Experiencia positiva: It’s free with suggested donations… the place not impressive but good for locals with kids..

Experiencia fantástica: Very small but very excellent. A totally different experience than the nearby and massive Aquarium of the Pacific, which I assume was built at a later date when Long Beach had grown wealthy. It is donation only, and suggested donation is only $7. The exhibits are good, with far more emphasis on actually teaching you something than being good visual candy. The tanks are all pretty small as aquariums go with lots of good information on the accompanying signs. The species are NOT selected for maximum visual impact but rather for interesting facts about their ecological niches and biology. I heard there are good tide pools nearby but didn't have time to see them

Experiencia fantástica: Amazing for the price. It's a donation system. Recommended donation is 7 per adult and 3 per kid/senior/student. There's no food options. If you're bringing little ones pack everything you need. A lot of tables across the parking lot next to the sand. And a nice little playground. The pier is within 10 minutes walking distance Parking is 1$ per hour, or max limit of 9$ for 18 hours **card only **no cash**

Experiencia fantástica: This is such a quaint Aquarium and the fact that it's free. My son loves marine life and he had a great time exploring the giant shrimp, the octopus, the shark eggs and other sea creatures you don't normally see in an aquarium. I would definitely recommend checking it out if you're ever in the area it is a little bit tricky you do have to pay for parking but it's a nice little getaway. Also there's not really any restaurants nearby so definitely bring lunch. Beach review: I already brought food and had our bathing suits ready to check out the beach right by it. Shares the same parking lot. But it was very windy. The waves are very calm and there's practically no huge waves. It makes it easier for someone with children or someone that doesn't know how to swim.

Experiencia positiva: The place its small but it has presentations outside in the beach for the kids about the animals which is cool . We used the restrooms at the beach the were horrible dirty terrible experienced for me and my kids. The aquarium its small cozy there was alot of people we couldnt even walk .

Experiencia fantástica: Really fun place to explore! Lots of marine life to look at. The staff is very knowledgeable and fun! I highly suggest going during the Grunion run.

Experiencia fantástica: Very pleasant aquarium. We went during the week and it wasn't too busy. Staff is nice and they have a cute little gift shop as well.

Experiencia fantástica: Amazing aquarium. Small so it doesn't take all day. Walk next door at the right time and see great tide pools. Plus it's by donation!! Great afternoon if you're on a budget!!

Experiencia fantástica: A beautiful time for kids and parents. Make sure to b prepared to enjoy some time in the sand with the little ones.

Experiencia fantástica: Lovely small aquarium, great for a quick or half day trip, near scenic beach and a pier with a scenic beautiful walk.

Experiencia fantástica: What a great way to spend a day. Small but very nice museum.

Experiencia fantástica: Well worth the drive. They have so much on display, and the petting tank was amazing. The personnel were great, and you can't beat the price. You can enjoy the beach and jetty afterwards. It's just on the other side of the parking lot. I highly recommend this aquarium for the whole family.

Experiencia fantástica: Lots of interesting exposition interesting for both kids and adults!

Experiencia fantástica: Awesome place to visit, Kids enjoyed it for about 2 hours at the most.

Experiencia fantástica: Free and educational. Had some rainy day fun.

Experiencia fantástica: Can't beat free. Donations always welcome. Parking was $1 an hour. Playground nearby. Gift shop had alot of nice things.

Experiencia fantástica: Small free aquarium with a variety of small to medium fish and sea creatures. Great value given that it's free, though donations are encouraged. The fish and such are fun to look out but don't expect an in depth scientific explanation of their behaviors. It's right by a nice beach and park as well!

Experiencia fantástica: The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a great interactive “classroom” where people of all ages can learn about marine life and conservation. I am a student at East Los Angeles College, and I had to come to the aquarium for a class assignment. In my experience, aquariums have always been more of an entertainment center than an educational experience. However, this aquarium manages to keep balance between learning and enjoying yourself. While the facility is small, it is very easy to finish and read all of the information in about two hours. First, the aquariums themselves are very well maintained and make it easy for visitors to see which animals are inside. The information boards or signs are also very easy to read and present the information in a non- over the top way, but in a way where everyday people can understand the concepts. Additionally, I really appreciated how open the facility was about exposing the inner workings of the tanks or laboratories and how they manage the breeding of jellies in the nursery. The employees who work at the facility are very nice and seem to love where they work. Finally, entrance into the facility is completely free, besides the one dollar payment per hour you have to pay for parking, which is a penny in today’s economy. Donations are recommended but not required. This facility is a great facility for families, students, or anyone who is interested in marine life to spend a few hours learning but also to have fun while doing so! I would highly recommend!

Experiencia fantástica: Awesome small museum! Will definitely make a good trip for kids to learn about marine life.

Experiencia fantástica: Such a great place to visit with the grandkids. Educational and fun. No use of cell phones! Support this place if you can.

Experiencia fantástica: You can give a donation instead of paying to get in. Small but enjoyable.

Experiencia fantástica: Free and have many rare animal in this aquarium. Had lovely time with baby and family.

Experiencia fantástica: Became a member this year and attended their Halloween event the aquarium itself is not that big but still plenty to see and do around as well. Members get free parking and get special invites to their events ..my kids had a blast at the sea scare event and there were music, games, treats. I would highly recommend for a day trip. Oh and it's right next to the beach so you can lounge about afterwards too.

Experiencia fantástica: You don't need to buy tickets. However, can donate money to the aquarium.

Experiencia positiva: Nice experience much cheaper than zlong Beach Aquarium accessible parking great place to take kids or a date

Experiencia fantástica: My childhood all over again, in glad to come here after 25 years. Such a beautiful place and very interesting.

Experiencia fantástica: We love this aquarium and are members. Admission is donation based and donations go back into the facility. Staff is friendly and informative. It's not as high tech as the aquarium across the way, but it's not as busy and is a great way to see and even touch sea life with your kids.

Experiencia positiva: It's a cute aquarium that is free,has clean bathrooms, and has an activity center for kids. There is a touch tank, but its not open all the time. And they have a gift shop,best thing is its walking distance to the beach

Experiencia positiva: The entrance fee is a suggested donation, $7 for adults, and $3 per child. Overall, it is a cool place to visit and have lots of things to see. Shark feeding and tide pool for touch and feel.

Experiencia positiva: Had a good time teaching my grandkids about marine life. I'll be returning here with them often

Experiencia fantástica: Really amazing place for how small it is. They have some stuff I've never seen anywhere else! I love how research orientated it is. And donation based!

Experiencia positiva: Some of the Exhibits were pretty neat and the gift shop staff was friendly. However, having an employee walking around each exhibit to answer questions or direct guests wouldn't have hurt. Also, informational plaques or something like it on both sides the walls would have been helpful. If you walked in the dark side of the tank, you have zero clue what you were seeing.

Experiencia fantástica: I LOVED this aquarium, and so did my kids. It’s also free with a recommended donation, and parking is $1/hour. It’s a tremendous value. The staff are super engaged and seem genuinely happy to be there. It made me really happy actually, that positivity was infectious. The exhibits are great. It’s not huge, this isn’t the Monterey Bay aquarium (I was there last month), but it was somehow just as fun. My kids were completely stoked by the exhibits and animals on display. The exhibits are well designed and very informative too. You even get to see their lab where the grow and raise animals for exhibit. Overall I can’t say enough good things. 2-3 hours is probably a good amount of time to spend, but if you read everything you could stay even longer.

Experiencia fantástica: Nice little aquarium! Took my grand babies here and they loved it! Wasn’t super crowded, and the employees were pleasant, from the entrance all the way to the end at the gift shop! Had a great experience all around! Will definitely be back when we are visiting L.A again. ( The entrance is free, but a $7 donation is mentioned which I gladly paid for each adult in my party! Well worth more! And parking is $1 hr).

Experiencia fantástica: The workers are so sweet. They let you know things you’re curious about even if you don’t ask. I came here about 6-8 years ago and there weren’t really any changes. I really recommend coming here for a cheap weekend with family, it’s hot but the ocean breeze makes it worth it.

Experiencia fantástica: What a great little aquarium. Entrance is free, they would like a donation to help keep the aquarium running. I enjoyed the sea creatures and information displays. My 15 year old also enjoyed it. We saw jellyfish and sea horses, when we went to Sea World last mos they didn't have either. The gift shop has cool gifts and mice cold drinks.