Welcoming all Visitors
The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a committed leader dedicated to welcoming and serving all–our community, visitors, staff and volunteers. We believe passionately that accessibility and inclusion in all aspects of our operations makes for an engaged, supportive, and wonderful experience regardless of ability. We strive to provide an environment where differences are appreciated and accepted.
The following information is provided to help plan your visit.
Parking
There is a public, fee based parking lot on site with numerous areas dedicated to visitors with disabilities displaying the appropriate placard or license plate. Cabrillo Beach Parking fees: Cars - $1/hr (9 hrs max), Boats & Oversized vehicles - $2/hr (7 hrs max).
Facility
The aquarium is located on one level and is fully accessible. Benches are located throughout the courtyard. Accessible restrooms, as well as a gender neutral restroom, can be found to the left of the welcome booth.
Safety and Security
If any assistance is needed please reach out to the closest staff member. In case of an emergency, we are located near LA County and LA City Lifeguards, LA Police Department, Port Police Department, and LA City Fire department.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
An AED is located near the welcome booth. Staff is trained to use the device.
Service Animals
Service animals that adhere to the ADA standard are allowed in the aquarium; unfortunately pets are not permitted. The aquarium can not supervise or care for service animals.
Beach Wheelchairs
Two beach wheelchairs are available for use during your visit to the aquarium. They are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and are free of charge. Please speak with a staff member to make a request for use and to inquire about availability.
Tactile Interpretation
Many exhibits throughout your visit include three dimensional animal models, fossils, whale bones or rockwork to enhance the tactile experience. We also have a Tidepool Touch Tank experience filled with intriguing animals available for you to experience and engage with through touch.
Assistive Listening
Videos displayed in the exhibit hall and the John M Olguin auditorium have English and Spanish captions.
ASL Interpreters
We can provide an ASL interpreter based on availability and with advanced notice. To request this service, or for more information, please call 310-548-7562.
Tips for Visitors with Sensory Sensitivities
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is proud to have partnered with KultureCity to become the first, sensory sensitive certified aquarium in California. We offer sensory bags that can be checked out at the Welcome Booth during your visit. Bags include noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, and verbal cue cards. Before your visit, please download the free KultureCity app to access our Social Story that offers a preview of what you might expect during your visit. For more information please visit our specialized KultureCity page.
Sensory Concerns
- Temperature, noise, scents and light can vary throughout the aquarium and courtyard.
- Weekend feeding programs (Shark, Kelp Forest and Abalone) can draw a small crowd and have increased sensory stimulation.
- Public restrooms contain hand dryers and auto flush toilets. The men and women's public restrooms have auto flush toilets.
Quiet Areas
- The reading nook outside the gift shop can often be a quiet area that has a bench and chair to relax.
- The aquarium offers in and out privileges so you are welcome to leave and return at any time during your visit.
- The aquarium has various areas, including the courtyard, that can be quiet depending on the day and time of your visit.
Lower attendance
- Visiting during off peak seasons might be helpful for your visit. Our slower attendance tends to occur in fall and winter. However during holidays and school vacations our attendance can increase.
- We tend to quiet down during the end of the day. The aquarium closes at 5pm so please keep that in mind to allow enough time for your visit.
Area closures
Sometimes exhibits or areas of the aquarium are closed due to special events, tours or maintenance. If you have any questions about what will be available during your visit please call 310-548-7562 or email us at sensoryassist@cmaqua.org.