San Pedro, California, Area Aquariums -- The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and the Long Beach Aquarium

Arianna and Olivia visited two fantastic aquariums while visiting San Pedro, California, July, 2011.

The first aquarium was the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. This aquarium has changed remarkably over the years, and is now one of the nicer aquariums in the country, comparing favorably, though much smaller, with the Boston Aquarium and the Long Beach aquarium.

Two nice things about the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium: it is not as crowded as other larger, more well-known aquariums; and, it is free.

It is very, very accessible. Parking  is available, and reasonable, for big city rates, but one might be able to find parking on a side street for free (which we did) and then walk down the hill to the beach, the park, and the aquarium.

Compared to the Boston Aquarium, the Cabrillo has some of the most unique sea creatures, and they are often showcased in a smaller aquarium right at eye-level and more easily accessible for very young children.

Like most aquariums these days, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium does have a touch tank.

Most surprising, and something very, very unique was a brand new, state-of-the-art marine library at the Cabrillo aquarium. It has a huge window overlooking the park and the harbor; it has several new internet-connected computers free for use by the public, and a very extensive library. For those visiting the San Pedro area for an extended period, this library is a great place to relax, read, and enjoy the scenery. And again, free, with a very, very inviting librarian.

Of course, if one loves aquariums, one is not about to miss the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific when in the San Pedro area. We have not visited the aquarium in Baltimore but it is said that the Boston, Baltimore, and Long Beach are three of the best aquariums in the United States. We fell in love with the Long Beach Aquarium. Folks spending more than a few months in the San Pedro area consider buying an annual family or annual grandparents pass to the aquarium. It will pay for itself with the second visit; the grandparent package includes four guest tickets and opportunity to bring up to four grandchildren on any visit.

The Long Beach Aquarium has three touch tanks which I think is the most of any aquarium. Two of them are with sharks and mantas. The third is a jellyfish touch pool, which I think, may be unique among aquariums.