Heal the Bay Aquarium: Discover Local Marine Life

Explore the wonders of the Santa Monica Bay at Heal the Bay Aquarium, where interactive exhibits and local marine life inspire ocean conservation for all ages under the iconic pier.

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Heal the Bay Aquarium

Nestled beneath the iconic Santa Monica Pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium offers an intimate and engaging introduction to the marine life of the Santa Monica Bay. This family-friendly aquarium, managed by the environmental non-profit Heal the Bay, showcases over 100 local species, from sea stars and sharks to colorful kelp forests. Interactive exhibits, including touch tanks, provide hands-on learning experiences for visitors of all ages, fostering a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem and the importance of ocean conservation. With its convenient location and affordable admission, the aquarium is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Santa Monica Pier, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the wonders of the Pacific Ocean and learn about Heal the Bay's vital work in protecting our coastal waters.

A brief summary to Heal the Bay Aquarium

1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
+1310-393-6149
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Local tips

Check the aquarium's website for daily activity schedules, including animal feedings and special presentations.
Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to avoid crowds and maximize your time exploring the exhibits.
Take advantage of the touch tanks to get hands-on with local marine life, but be gentle and follow staff instructions.
Combine your visit with other Santa Monica Pier attractions, such as Pacific Park and the historic carousel, for a full day of fun.
Consider becoming a Heal the Bay member for unlimited free visits and exclusive benefits while supporting ocean conservation.

Getting There

Walking

From the Santa Monica Pier entrance at Ocean Avenue, walk towards the pier. Pass the carousel on your left. The Heal the Bay Aquarium is located on the beach level, directly underneath the carousel building. Look for the entrance on the left, near the base of the pier.
Public Transport

From the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line station or nearby Big Blue Bus stops at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue, walk west towards the Santa Monica Pier. Cross Ocean Avenue and walk down the pier bridge. The Heal the Bay Aquarium is located on the beach level, directly underneath the carousel building. Look for the entrance on the left, near the base of the pier. A single ride on the Big Blue Bus is $1.25. A single ride on the Metro is $1.75, which includes two hours of free transfers.
Driving

From Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), turn towards the pier on Colorado Avenue. Limited parking is available on the pier itself, with access from Ocean Avenue. Alternatively, use the beach parking lots north of the pier, accessible from Appian Way. From the parking lot, walk towards the pier and follow signs to the aquarium entrance located under the carousel. Parking fees in the beach lots typically range from $8 to $14 depending on the season and time of day. Metered parking is also available on nearby streets, but time limits are enforced.

Discover more about Heal the Bay Aquarium

Heal the Bay Aquarium, situated directly beneath the carousel on the Santa Monica Pier, provides a captivating glimpse into the marine world thriving just beyond the sandy shores. More than just an aquarium, it's a vibrant educational center dedicated to inspiring ocean conservation and environmental stewardship. Managed by Heal the Bay, a prominent environmental non-profit, the aquarium serves as a crucial platform for raising awareness about the Santa Monica Bay's unique ecosystem and the importance of protecting it. Originally established as the Ocean Discovery Center and operated by UCLA, Heal the Bay took over operations in 2003, transforming it into the award-winning Heal the Bay Aquarium. In 2019, the facility was officially renamed Heal the Bay Aquarium to better reflect its mission and connection to the organization's broader environmental efforts. Each year, the aquarium welcomes approximately 100,000 visitors, including around 15,000 students, offering them a chance to explore the wonders of the local marine environment through interactive exhibits and engaging programs. The aquarium's exhibits showcase over 100 species of marine animals and plants native to the Santa Monica Bay. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, from rocky reefs and kelp forests to sandy sea floors, encountering fascinating creatures along the way. The touch tanks are a highlight, allowing guests to gently interact with sea stars, hermit crabs, sea urchins, and other invertebrates. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers are readily available to answer questions, share insights, and guide visitors through the exhibits, enhancing the learning experience. Exhibits include a shark nursery, where visitors can observe horn sharks and swell sharks in an open-top tank, and a sea jellies display featuring mesmerizing moon jellies. The 'Under the Pier' exhibit offers a unique perspective on the marine life that thrives beneath the pier's pilings. The aquarium also features a multimedia room with oceanography books, children's books about sea creatures, coloring pages, and crayons. Heal the Bay Aquarium is committed to providing educational programs for visitors of all ages. School field trips, summer science camps, and volunteer opportunities are available, fostering a deeper connection to the ocean and inspiring action to protect it. The aquarium also hosts special events, including birthday parties and beach cleanups, further engaging the community in its mission. Beyond its exhibits and programs, Heal the Bay Aquarium plays a vital role in supporting Heal the Bay's broader environmental initiatives. The aquarium serves as a living laboratory, providing valuable data and insights for the organization's research and advocacy efforts. It also serves as a hub for community engagement, connecting people with the organization's work and inspiring them to become advocates for clean water and healthy coastal ecosystems. Visiting Heal the Bay Aquarium is more than just a fun outing; it's an opportunity to learn about the wonders of the Santa Monica Bay, connect with the important work of Heal the Bay, and become inspired to protect our oceans for future generations. The aquarium's convenient location on the Santa Monica Pier, affordable admission, and engaging exhibits make it an accessible and enriching experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist from afar, a visit to Heal the Bay Aquarium is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our marine environment.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Pacific Wheel

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Experience breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica coastline on the world's first and only solar-powered Ferris wheel, a dazzling icon of sustainable fun.

Beach Crossing Staircase

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Discover Santa Monica's coastal charm at the Beach Crossing Staircase, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and a seamless connection between city life and beach serenity.

Santa Monica Pier

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Discover the enchanting Santa Monica Pier, where history meets fun with attractions, stunning views, and vibrant coastal culture.

Santa Monica Place

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Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Santa Monica Place, where luxury meets the laid-back charm of California's coast.

City of Santa Monica

0.4 km

Experience the best of California in Santa Monica: stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exquisite dining await you.

Will Rogers Highway Marker

0.5 km

Commemorating the iconic Route 66 and the beloved Will Rogers, this Santa Monica marker offers a glimpse into America's open road spirit and a tribute to a legendary entertainer.

Clock Tower Building

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Discover Santa Monica's iconic Clock Tower Building: an Art Deco masterpiece with a rich history, offering a blend of architectural beauty and modern attractions in the heart of downtown.

Viceroy Santa Monica

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Discover luxury at Viceroy Santa Monica, where modern elegance meets stunning ocean views in the heart of California's iconic beach city.

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

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Downtown Santa Monica

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Experience the best of Southern California in Downtown Santa Monica: world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment steps from the iconic beach and pier, creating unforgettable memories.

Historic Belmar Park

0.7 km

Discover Santa Monica's Historic Belmar Park: A poignant memorial and vibrant community space honoring a displaced African American neighborhood through art, history, and recreation.

Crescent Bay Park

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Discover a tranquil coastal haven at Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica, offering stunning ocean views, lush green spaces, and a rich history as part of the Bay Street Beach Historic District.

Santa Monica Statue

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Discover the Santa Monica Statue, a stunning cultural landmark dedicated to the Virgin Mary, nestled in picturesque Palisades Park with breathtaking ocean views.

Edwin Building

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Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree

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Explore the enchanting Camera Obscura Art Lab in Santa Monica, where art meets science in a unique interactive experience.

West Coaster

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Discover the thrill of the West Coaster at Santa Monica Pier, where breathtaking ocean views meet exhilarating rides for unforgettable fun.

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

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Discover Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier, an amusement park with thrilling rides, games, and stunning ocean views perfect for family fun and adventure.

Experience unparalleled steak perfection at BOA Steakhouse in Santa Monica - where culinary artistry meets coastal charm.

Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at the Wonders of the World gift shop in Santa Monica's lively 3rd Street Promenade.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe

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Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.

The Backyard

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Bar Chloe

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Lanea

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Ye Olde King's Head

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The Living Room

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Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.

The Coco Club

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Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Coco Club, Santa Monica's premier rooftop bar and lounge with stunning ocean views and crafted cocktails.

THE BUNGALOW

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Esters Wine Shop & Bar

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Bodega Wine Bar

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Basement Tavern

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Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.

Jameson’s Pub

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The Room Santa Monica

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The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm

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The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm

Tavern on Main SM

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Heal the Bay Aquarium: Discover Local Marine Life

A brief summary to Heal the Bay Aquarium

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Heal the Bay Aquarium

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Heal the Bay Aquarium

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Pacific Wheel

Beach Crossing Staircase

Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Place

City of Santa Monica

Will Rogers Highway Marker

Clock Tower Building

Viceroy Santa Monica

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

Downtown Santa Monica

Historic Belmar Park

Crescent Bay Park

Santa Monica Statue

Edwin Building

Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Unmissable attractions to see

Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome

Santa Monica Pier Carousel

Santa Monica Pier Arch

Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica

Chess Park

Route 66 End of the Trail Sign

Route 66 End of the Trail

Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica

Santa Monica Street Art

Surf City Tours

Tongva Park

Camera Obscura Art Lab

West Coaster

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

Essential places to dine

Seaside on the Pier

The Albright

The Lobster

RED O CANTINA

Bruno's Italian Restaurant

Chez Jay

Meat On Ocean

Santa Monica Whaler

True Food Kitchen

LouLou Santa Monica

North Italia

Sol Agave - santa monica

Water Grill

THE Curious PALATE

BOA Steakhouse

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

66-To-Cali

Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop

Oatman Rock Shop

Beachcomber Gift Cart

Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica

Pier Gear

Sand 'n Surf

LA Gift Stop

Free People

UNIQLO Santa Monica Place

Johnny Was

Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)

Urban Outfitters

Anthropologie

Wonders of the World

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe

The Backyard

Bar Chloe

Lanea