Aquarium of the Pacific Camp (Long Beach, CA)

Aquarium of the Pacific runs fantastic summer and seasonal camps that are hands-on, interactive, and all about marine life.

Camp Overview

Best Ages: ~6–12 (age groups vary by session)
Focus: Marine animals + ocean science
Type: Full or half-day day camp

Kids get to:

Learn from educators

Feed fish and birds

Touch tide pool creatures

Explore behind-the-scenes

The aquarium is huge and perfect for marine enthusiasts.

What to Do During Camp

✔ Tidepool touch lab

✔ Animal encounters (rays, sharks, sea stars)

✔ Marine science experiments

✔ Sustainability & ocean lessons

✔ Crafts and themed games

Camps are themed weekly (e.g., “Sharks & Rays”, “Coral Quest”), so check session descriptions.

Places to Eat Nearby

Before/After Camp Lunch Spots (varies by city):

Harbor-front cafés with views

Shoreline Village eateries — burgers, seafood, pizza

Picnic on the nearby grass areas

Bring refillable water bottles — the Aquarium is large and kids get thirsty fast.

Travel With Kids Tips

⭐ Arrive early: parking can fill and Long Beach traffic builds quickly

⭐ Wear comfortable shoes — the venue is walking-heavy

⭐ Bring sunscreen and layers — ocean breezes can be cool

⭐ Have snacks ready for after camp energy dips

Aquarium of the Pacific Camp turns ocean fascination into real-world discovery. Kids don’t just look at sea life behind glass — they explore ecosystems, learn conservation in action, and experience marine science up close.

There’s something powerful about watching your child connect the dots between tide pools, sharks, and protecting our oceans. It shifts learning from abstract to tangible.

If your family loves the beach, marine life, or simply raising environmentally aware kids, this camp is an unforgettable way to deepen that connection.