Heal the Bay Aquarium: Discovering Santa Monica's Underwater World
Explore local marine life and support ocean conservation at Heal the Bay Aquarium under the Santa Monica Pier.
Located beneath the iconic Santa Monica Pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium offers an intimate glimpse into the marine life of the Santa Monica Bay. With over 100 local species on display, interactive exhibits, and a commitment to conservation, it's a perfect family-friendly destination to learn about and appreciate the wonders of the Pacific Ocean.
A brief summary to Heal the Bay Aquarium
- 1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
- +1310-393-6149
- Visit website
- Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the aquarium's website for daily activities like animal feedings and microscopic safaris for an enhanced experience.
- Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays) to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
- Take advantage of the touch tanks to get hands-on with local marine life, but remember to be gentle and follow staff instructions.
- Combine your visit with other Santa Monica Pier attractions for a full day of fun.
- Consider becoming a Heal the Bay member for unlimited free visits and other benefits.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Santa Monica Pier entrance, walk towards the east end, following signs for the carousel. Descend the stairs near the carousel to reach the beach level. The aquarium entrance is located directly under the carousel. There is no fee to access the pier or walk to the aquarium entrance.
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Public Transport
Take the Metro Expo Line to the 4th St/Colorado Ave station. Walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the pier. Turn left onto Ocean Avenue and walk south to the pier entrance. Descend the stairs near the carousel to reach the beach level. The aquarium entrance is located directly under the carousel. A single fare on the Metro is $1.75.
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Driving
From the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), follow signs to the Santa Monica Pier. Turn onto Appian Way to access the beach parking lots. Park in Lot 1 North (1550) for the closest access to the aquarium. From the parking lot, walk towards the pier and descend the stairs near the carousel. The aquarium entrance is located directly under the carousel. Parking fees in Lot 1 North range from $8 to $18 depending on the day and time.
Discover more about Heal the Bay Aquarium
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