Roundhouse Aquarium
Overview
Expert Summary
Detailed Insights
Roundhouse Aquarium is a free, intimate, and engaging marine 'hidden gem' located at the end of the scenic Manhattan Beach Pier. It offers well-curated educational content, interactive displays like a touch tank for kids, and captivating exhibits such as the jellyfish Immersion Gallery. Despite its modest size, it makes a big impact, blending marine education with a delightful pier stroll and oceanfront charm.
Key Highlights
- ✓A larger-than-life white shark sculpture, 'Manny,' greets visitors upon approach.
- ✓Features an 'Immersion Gallery' with jellyfish gracefully floating in vibrant, illuminated tanks.
- ✓Offers well-curated educational content and interactive displays.
- ✓Kids have the opportunity to touch live sea creatures in a dedicated tank.
- ✓Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share insights and answer questions.
- ✓Admission is free (donations are welcome).
- ✓Its location at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier provides a scenic stroll with views of the ocean, ships, surfers, and potential gorgeous sunsets.
Standout Features
- ⭐Free admission, offering exceptional value.
- ⭐Interactive touch tank specifically designed for children.
- ⭐Engaging and educational content about marine life.
- ⭐Friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance the learning experience.
- ⭐Unique oceanfront location at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier, adding to the overall experience.
- ⭐The 'Manny' shark sculpture serves as a popular photo opportunity.
- ⭐The aesthetically pleasing jellyfish 'Immersion Gallery'.
Perfect For
Ideal For
💡Pro Tips from Reviews
- →Combine your visit with a leisurely stroll along the Manhattan Beach Pier to enjoy ocean views, ship/surfer watching, and potential sunset vistas.
- →Check their official website for the most current operating hours, as they are limited.
- →Plan for a relatively quick visit, as the aquarium is small and compact.
- →Be aware that you will need to use public restrooms located at the *start* of the pier, not at the aquarium itself.
- →Consider making a donation to support the aquarium, as it operates on a free-entry basis.
- →It's a great spot for photos at any time of day.
Things to Consider
- ⚠Described as 'tiny' and 'compact,' indicating a potentially short visit.
- ⚠Operates with 'limited hours,' requiring visitors to check in advance.
- ⚠There are no public bathrooms directly at the Aquarium; public bathrooms are located at the start of the pier.
Price & Value
Entry is free, with donations welcomed, providing outstanding value compared to the typically high cost of other attractions in coastal cities. There are no mentioned hidden costs, making it a highly accessible and affordable family outing for marine education and entertainment.
♿Accessibility & Special Needs
- •No specific accommodations for special needs or mobility challenges are mentioned in the reviews. The location at the end of a pier might have implications for accessibility, but details are not provided.
🍎Food & Drink Policy
- •Not mentioned in reviews.
🚗Parking Info
- •Not specified in reviews. Being at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier implies visitors would use general public parking available in the wider Manhattan Beach area, not dedicated aquarium parking.
👥Crowd Levels
- •Described as a 'small,' 'tiny,' and 'compact' space. The pier itself is noted to be 'filled with fishing folks and entertainers,' which suggests the surrounding area can be busy. Reviews do not specify particular times to avoid for crowds *within* the aquarium itself, though its size implies it could feel crowded easily if many visitors are present.
🛡️Safety Features
- •No specific safety features are mentioned in the reviews.
⏰When to Avoid
- • If you are expecting a large-scale, all-day aquarium experience similar to major city aquariums (it is described as 'small,' 'tiny,' and 'compact').
- • If you have very young children who require immediate access to restrooms directly within the venue, due to the lack of on-site facilities.
Pricing/Package/Events
Events & Schedule
Special Events(Last 2 months - Next 6 months)
Coastal Cleanup Day
Sept 20
N/A (volunteer event)
Hosted at the Manhattan Beach Pier site in partnership with Heal the Bay, a beach cleanup event.
NCL Sea Craft Hour
Sept 27 from 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Free
A family-friendly event in partnership with the National Charity League, featuring sea-themed crafts.
Farmers Market Booth
Next date TBD
N/A
Booth to explore marine specimens and meet live animals from local tide pools, offering interactive experiences for the whole family.
🛡️Safety Policy
- • The Roundhouse provides a safe place for people of all ages to learn about the oceans, marine life and the environment.
📅Booking Policy
- • Website registration is required to use the website, asking for name and email address. Optional demographic information (gender, age) may be provided.
- • An order form requires contact (name, shipping address) and financial information (credit card number, expiration date) for purchases.
What People Say
What's Great
- Fun and entertaining activities (mentioned in 3 reviews)
- Spacious play areas (mentioned in 4 reviews)
Recent Reviews
Ramin Homyak
3 months ago🐬The Roundhouse Aquarium, perched at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, is a hidden gem that offers an intimate and engaging marine experience. Housed within a charming building reminiscent of coastal architecture, this small aquarium makes a big impact with its immersive displays and welcoming atmosphere. Upon approaching, visitors are greeted by “Manny,” a larger-than-life white shark sculpture that piques curiosity and excitement. Once inside, the aquarium offers a fascinating peek into the underwater world with exhibits like the “Immersion Gallery.” This unique exhibit captivates guests with jellyfish gracefully floating in vibrant, illuminated tanks, creating an almost ethereal ambiance. Despite its modest size, the Roundhouse Aquarium impresses with well-curated educational content, interactive displays, and an inviting environment perfect for families, tourists, and locals alike. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share insights and answer questions, making the visit both informative and enjoyable. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the pier or exploring the marine life within, the Roundhouse Aquarium provides a delightful stop. It’s a beautiful blend of education, wonder, and oceanfront charm—a must-visit destination for those exploring the scenic Manhattan Beach area.
Tiffany Vi
a month agoCute little free aquarium love it we need more things like this in general where you don’t have to pay ridiculous prices.
Patty Fong
2 months agoPart of the delight visiting the Roundhouse Aquarium is the easy stroll along an extended pier standing in the deep water for many to admire... the ocean, ships and surfers. If lucky, the sunset is absolutely gorgeous! Like other piers, many find the pier filled with fishing folks and entertainers. The Aquarium is tiny, compact, educational, and "free". Yes, as pricey as everything associated with the coastal cities, this gem is basically free and open to the public with limited hours. Donations are welcome. It's enjoyable for those with extra free minutes to wander around, both first and a second floor. Kids have the opportunity to touch live sea creatures in a tank! Splendid time to expose youngsters to appreciate sea life and value nature in front of them. Plus side of walking the pier... at the start of the it, there are public bathrooms, but not at the Aquarium. Would we visit again? Definitely! The pier walk is worth it!
Mayur Patel
2 months agoThe Roundhouse Aquarium is a really cool free aquarium. It is fun to check out if you're at the Manhattan Beach Pier and is relatively quick to enjoy!
Debbie Labeaux
5 months agoThe Roundhouse Aquarium is located at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier. Great spot for photos any time of day. Check out their website for hours. Blessings 🏄🌊💙