Aquarium of the Pacific: A peek into the worlds largest ocean
A stunning collection of fish, sea mammals and plant life from around the great Pacific Ocean, the Aquarium of the Pacific features a collection of more than 12,500 animals representing over 650 different species. With water tanks ranging from 5,000 to 350,000 gallons, the Aquarium of the Pacific could fit three entire football fields inside.
Containing more than 10,000 fish and mammals that live in the Pacific Ocean, the aquarium is divided into three sections: the Northern Pacific, the Tropical Pacific and Southern California and the Baja peninsula. Visitors walk through huge aquariums teeming with fish and underwater vegetation in each of the three areas.
Featuring 19 major habitats and 32 focus exhibits, the aquarium explores the waters of Southern California and Baja, the Northern Pacific, and the Tropical Pacific.
Popular displays at the aquarium include the interactive Shark Lagoon (guests can pet sharks and sting rays) and Lorikeet Forest (visitors can feed nectar to multi-colored lorikeet birds). Exhibits at the aquarium introduce the inhabitants and seascapes of the Pacific, while also focusing on specific conservation messages associated with each region. Exhibits range in size and capacity from about 5,000 to 350,000 gallons.
The Aquarium of the Pacific is home to many cultural events throughout the year, such as the Pacific Islander Festival in the summer, the Moompetam Festival in the fall, special treats for the animals at Christmas, the Festival of Human Abilities in January, and the African Heritage Festival in February.
There are many special educational events during the year. Make sure to check out the aquarium’s web site for schedule information and to purchase tickets in advance. Be aware that tickets have specific times to prevent overcrowding inside the aquarium.
HelloLosAngeles tips: If you decide to visit on a Saturday or Sunday, you can beat the crowds by coming earlier (between 9:00 am and 10:00 am). On weekdays, school groups visit the aquarium in the morning, but leave by 2:00 pm. The aquarium is closed Dec. 25 and during the three-day Grand Prix of Long Beach race that is held in mid-April.
- by Jim Brown , Los Angeles Reporter for HelloMetro
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Jim Brown Jim Brown is a longtime freelance aviation, travel and destination writer and communications professional. A former reporter for Aviation Daily, Air Safety Week and World Airline News, Jim served for more than 15 years as a senior public relations executive for American Airlines, TWA and AirTran Airways.
