Roundhouse Marine
Studies Lab and Aquarium

Dedicated to teaching visitors and students, the Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium, teaches people about the environment, marine life and the oceans. This aquarium is run by volunteers and donations, so even though it's free to get in, just drop a buck or two in the donation box at the entrance, they could use it.

You can't miss it as it's located at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier. Take a stroll out on the pier, watch the surfers, waves and fishermen and check out the aquarium. It's small compared to a lot of aquariums in California but its interesting to see what's swimming around beneath you and worth the boardwalk trip. I wouldn't make a special trip here but if you happen to be in the area, check it out.

Inside this two-story round building they have some touch-tanks where you can touch starfish (with one finger) and whatever else they have in there at the time. Kids love this part. And upstairs there are puzzles and a children's toy bin. This is a great place for kids and its hands on to interest them.

Roundhouse provides birthday parties, classes, summer camp and special events for holidays. Call 310-379-8117 for more information.

Hours and Admission

Monday - Friday 3pm to sunset
Saturday & Sunday 10am to sunset
Holidays - Call ahead 310-379-8117

Open free to the public although they do suggest a donation of 2 dollars per person or 5 dollars per family. There is a donation box at the entrance, so drop a couple bucks on your way in.

Getting There
by Car

Or find a cheap flight using this handy dandy flight finder. Just type in the "to" and "from" fields and trip advisor will scan through 100s of booking sites across the net to find the best deals possible. Its fast and easy!

Places to stay nearby

For places to stay near the pier, visit my page on Manhattan Beach where I have listed several hotels in the area. You can click on each one to read the reviews and see what other travelers have said about their stays.

Go Back to All California Aquariums from the Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium

Thank you for visiting Trippin' Thru California! Hope you enjoy discovering new "things to do" and "fun places" as much as I do!