





Aquariums
Central Coast Aquarium
📍 50 San Juan St, Avila Beach, CA 93424🕐 Hours
| Monday | 10 AM–4 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM–4 PM |
About Central Coast Aquarium
Local marine life exhibits & touch tanks. Quaint, longtime aquarium with hands-on marine life exhibits & activities focusing on local species. Features over 75 local Central Coast marine species with a specific focus on kelp forest and marine ecosystem education. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 299 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Aquarium
- Location
- Avila Beach, Central Coast
- Hours
- Daily 10 AM - 4 PM
- Best For
- All ages
- Highlights
- 75+ local marine species, oceanfront views
💡 Did You Know?
- Features over 75 local Central Coast marine species with a specific focus on kelp forest and marine ecosystem education
- Offers hands-on touch tanks where visitors can interact directly with marine life including leopard sharks and starfish, led by volunteer educators
- Functions as a unique event venue, hosting weddings with private tour options during receptions on an oceanfront location with Avila Beach views
- Operates a Science After Dark program alongside traditional educational offerings including summer camps and school programs
💬 What Visitors Say
- Engage with the passionate volunteer staff to enhance your visit—reviewers consistently praised their knowledge and eagerness to share detailed information about local sea life and the kelp forest ecosystem.
- Start with the touch tanks and interactive exhibits like shark petting and starfish encounters, which are popular highlights that offer hands-on learning about local marine species.
- Plan for a shorter visit (1-2 hours) as this is a small, intimate aquarium rather than a large facility—focus on quality exploration of key exhibits like the octopus and jellyfish displays.
- Explore special events like 'Science After Dark' for a unique educational experience, or consider summer camps and school programs if visiting with children to maximize learning opportunities.
- Take advantage of the oceanfront location in Avila Beach with scenic views—combine your aquarium visit with time exploring the beach and seaside community for a fuller educational experience.
More Family Fun Nearby
Other venues within driving distance:
Own this venue? Stand out from the competition.
Aquariums listings that are Featured get seen first by thousands of families every month.
- Priority placement in search
- Photo gallery showcase
- Insider tips from visitors
- Highlighted in dedicated featured section





