Aquarium of the Pacific

Aquarium of the Pacific review

Dedicated as much to education as entertainment, this spectacular aquarium more than justifies the drive down to Long Beach, especially if the alternative is the razzle-dazzle of San Diego's considerably pricier SeaWorld. Inevitably, the Shark Lagoon is the most popular exhibit, though the bite of the becalmed residents is presumably worse than their non-existent bark; other highlights include the low-key but fascinating Whales: Voices of the Sea.

Much of the rest of the aquarium is divided geographically: loveable sea lions in the Southern California section, all kinds of garish fish in the Tropical Pacific area, a variety of exotic creatures in the new Gulf of California exhibit. If the real thing isn't enough for the little brats, they may enjoy an animated and exaggerated version of same in the shape of A Fish Story 3-D ($3).