What does it take to educate children on the threats plaguing the oceans while still making sure they have fun? Apparently hands-on exhibits, fascinating preserved specimens and not a whole lot of space according to Cabrillo Marine Aquarium.

This site is quickly growing to become more than just a coincidental stop by on the way to Cabrillo Beach Coastal Park as it attracts hordes of families. They often enter, eager to excite their young ones with the vibrancy of marine life in Southern California. Don’t just stop at discovering the major marine ecosystems in the region at the Susanne Lawrence Miller Exhibit but enter the Aquatic Nursery to see research being done before your eyes. With protective glasses and a few turns of the microscope you can step in as scientist for the day with passionate researchers sharing their work with all who drop by. In the Frank Gehry Aquarium, prepare to be blown away by the largest collection of Southern California marine life in the world. And the best part? It won’t even cost you more than a few dollars.

Organizes events like whale watching and tide pool walks but these are all time sensitive events