1. Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Explore interactive tide pools

If you keep an eye out, you’ll likely be able to see pods of dolphins playing in the ship’s wake during your cruise. For even more up-close excitement, explore the wonders of the Pacific at Birch Aquarium, located in La Jolla. 

With more than 100 years of dedication to marine conservation, this aquarium offers a chance to interact with tide pools brimming with starfish, anemones and hermit crabs. You can also explore exhibits highlighting cutting-edge oceanographic research, such as the migration patterns of sea turtles or the bioluminescence of deep-sea creatures. Watch playful sea otters float and marvel at the bright hues of tropical reef fish, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

A child gazes at the towering kelp forest exhibit at Birch Aquarium, where sunlight filters through the water, illuminating schools of fish swimming among the swaying kelp.
Step into an underwater wonderland at Birch Aquarium, where towering kelp forests sway as fish glide through beams of golden light.

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2. San Francisco’s Aquarium of the Bay

Walk through aquarium tunnels

Located on San Francisco’s iconic Pier 39, Aquarium of the Bay offers a unique underwater experience. You don’t have to be a good swimmer to walk through its clear tunnels and be surrounded by more than 20,000 marine animals — including the impressive “Sharks of Alcatraz.”This exhibit showcases local shark species that inhabit the waters surrounding the infamous island. Fun fact: these sharks just might be the answer to what happened to the three prisoners who escaped. The touch pools provide an added hands-on opportunity to interact with rays, sharks and sea stars, and the Bay Lab is a great place to learn about the diverse ecosystems of the region.

A stunning display of Pacific sea nettle jellyfish at San Francisco’s Aquarium of the Bay.
Walk through mesmerizing aquarium tunnels as Pacific sea nettle jellyfish drift gracefully, their golden bells glowing against a deep blue backdrop.

3. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Discover endless exploration

Immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, where you can get a sense for the scale of the creatures you’ll likely be seeing off the bow of the ship. This must-see stop is home to the largest collection of Southern California marine species in the world, and it allows guests to dive deep into coastal ecosystems. Step outside to the expansive Coastal Park as you stroll among native plants, spot shorebirds and watch sea creatures thrive in their natural habitat. 

The award-winning exploration center offers a variety of interactive exhibits, including a whale skeleton exhibit that demonstrates just how massive these marine mammals are.

An octopus clings to an aquarium tank glass wall at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium.
Watch the intelligent and elusive giant Pacific octopus at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium as it stretches its tentacles and glides through its habitat.

4. Santa Monica pier aquarium

Become an ocean life hero

Tucked beneath the well-known Santa Monica Pier, the Heal the Bay Aquarium proves you don’t need a cape to be an ocean hero. Guests can join the fight for marine preservation by "adopting" sea creatures, like playful sea otters and graceful jellyfish, and supporting clean ocean initiatives that protect marine habitats. 

The interactive exhibits and close-up encounters with sea life (think: sea urchins, sea stars and even sharks) mean you get a hands-on learning experience about California’s coastal ecosystems. It’s a great stop for anyone passionate about ocean conservation, and it can be an effective way to entertain the family before your cruise departs.

A moray eel emerges from a rocky coral reef at Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, its mouth slightly open, revealing sharp teeth
Get up close with the mysterious moray eel at Santa Monica Pier Aquarium as it peers out from a colorful coral reef, blending into its vibrant underwater world.

5. Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History sea center

Pet rays, urchins and sharks

The Sea Center, located on Stearns Wharf, is a gateway to all things marine life — particularly the marine life of the Santa Barbara Channel. Guests can get up close and personal with rays, urchins and small sharks in the interactive touch tanks. 

The sea study exhibit allows visitors to engage with marine research for a more immersive experience. It includes everything from observing sea horses and octopuses to learning about ocean currents and plankton under a microscope. The interactive exhibits like touch tanks and the programs exploring the ecosystems of California’s coastal waters make this aquarium the perfect blend of education and entertainment.

A scenic view of Santa Barbara, California, featuring the wooden pier of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, small fishing boats floating nearby, a sandy beach lined with palm trees and mountains rising in the background under a bright blue sky.
Soak in the coastal charm of Santa Barbara as fishing boats drift across turquoise waters with the pier and rugged mountains painting a picture-perfect backdrop.

6. Steinhart Aquarium

Tour the largest indoor coral reef

In the heart of the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, you’ll find the world’s largest indoor coral reef — a 25-foot-deep and 212,000-gallon underwater oasis full of bright tropical fish and graceful rays. Steinhart Aquarium offers an unparalleled look into a variety of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to the depths of the ocean. 

Guests can explore exhibits featuring rare fish, vibrant corals and unique aquatic species, including the elusive flashlight fish that use bioluminescence to glow in the dark. The aquarium also showcases exotic seahorses, delicate and almost otherworldly in their appearance, as well as giant sea bass, a species making a comeback thanks to conservation efforts.

A massive aquarium exhibit at Steinhart Aquarium featuring the largest indoor coral reef.
Step into an underwater paradise at Steinhart Aquarium, home to the largest indoor coral reef, where vibrant fish weave through a mesmerizing marine world.

7. Aquarium of the Pacific

Swim with the fish

If you want to swim with the fishes (and not in a theatrical mafia way), then the Aquarium of the Pacific is the place for you! The exhibits are so immersive that it feels like you’re in the water. Located in Long Beach, this aquarium has plenty to offer, from frogs and penguins to sea otters. One of the most popular attractions is the Shark Lagoon, where guests can observe these fascinating creatures up close. 

If you have some extra time before or after your cruise, the Ocean Science Center provides interactive displays on climate and oceanography. The Aquarium of the Pacific also hosts seasonal exhibitions and events that showcase marine life from all around the world, including special programs aimed at educating guests about ocean conservation and environmental responsibility.

A young child stands with hands pressed against the glass at Aquarium of the Pacific’s Shark Lagoon, watching a large shark swim past.
Come face-to-face with the ocean’s top predator at Aquarium of the Pacific’s Shark Lagoon.

8. Living Coast Discovery Center

Explore life above and below sea

Channel your inner little mermaid and explore life both under the sea and up where the people walk at the Living Coast Discovery Center. Here, you’ll find a blend of coastal aviary exhibits and marine life displays. You can learn about a wide variety of animals, including sea turtles and a variety of bird species — all native to the California Coast. 

This center is committed to conservation, making it an inspiring stop for visitors who want to learn more about preserving the natural habitats of both marine and land-based animals. Experiencing the open sea on your cruise is sure to spark a deeper appreciation for marine conservation, and the Living Coast Discovery Center in San Diego features interactive exhibits on habitat restoration and programs that support efforts to protect Southern California’s delicate marine ecosystems.

A barn owl with white and golden feathers spreads its wings while perched on a gloved handler’s hand at Living Coast Discovery Center.
Get up close with majestic birds of prey at Living Coast Discovery Center, where a barn owl spreads its wings in a breathtaking display.

9. SeaWorld

Enjoy exciting rides and large exhibits

No list of top aquariums in California is complete without mentioning SeaWorld. Famous for its thrilling rides and large-scale exhibits, SeaWorld combines all the things that make California so iconic for an unforgettable experience. Guests can encounter majestic animals such as whales, walruses and dolphins in expansive habitats. 

Beyond the animal encounters, SeaWorld is also known for its exciting theme park rides and unique shows that offer both education and entertainment. Thrill-seekers can dive into adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like the Manta or the high-speed Electric Eel, while families can enjoy interactive experiences like Dolphin Days or Orca Encounter.

A beluga whale emerges from the water at SeaWorld.
Experience the magic of a beluga encounter at SeaWorld as these playful whales glide through shimmering blue waters.

10. Monterey Bay Aquarium

Feed sea otters and penguins

If you've seen videos of energetic sea otters and desperately wished to play with them, you'll need to make a stop at Monterey Bay Aquarium. Here, guests can feed sea otters and penguins, or simply marvel at a giant Pacific octopus as it moves gracefully through the water.

This spot is renowned for its captivating exhibits, including an indoor kelp forest, and for those looking to take a deeper dive into marine life, Princess offers both a Monterey Bay Aquarium guided tour and a Monterey Bay Aquarium self-guided tour. You can explore at your own pace or get expert insights into all the animals your cruise ship will pass. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see, perfectly blending fun with a rich educational experience for guests of all ages.

A mother Southern Sea Otter newborn pup float in the water of a protected tide pool.
Watch playful sea otters float effortlessly in the turquoise waters of Monterey Bay Aquarium.