1 / 2Marine Mammal Care Center
📍 San Pedro, CA
NOAA-authorised marine mammal rehabilitation facility in San Pedro where volunteer docents guide families through recovering seal and sea lion pools. Weekly S.E.A. Lab STEM sessions and Family Science Sundays run throughout the year.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for curious families with school-aged children who respond to conservation stories and hands-on science. The visit is compact - plan for around 45-60 minutes and combine it with lunch in San Pedro to make a half-day outing.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →653 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Sean Martin
11 months ago
“Located in San Pedro. This is a rehabilitation center for Marine Mammals. The volunteers are knowledgeable and friendly. This is the slow season for recovery of sea Mammals. Last week there were 2, this week 5. They runoff donations and purchased gift shop merchandise. It's free to visit, however, they ask for a $10 donation per guest. I've taken 2 small groups of high school students. I recommend the small group route. It's a relatively short visit, I recommend eating in San Pedro after, lots of food choices. Apparently Busy Bee 🐝 is THE sandwich place to go. The Korean Friendship bell is great place to bring packed lunch.”
DANIEL ALEXANDER
10 months ago
“Very informative & educational. Lovely gift shop with many items to choose from. Staff/volunteers are Excellent. I highly recommend visiting Marine Mammal Care Center.”
CONNI BERRY
7 months ago
“Love what they do here! We visit several times a year and fully support the efforts and care they give these sweet babies!”
💬 What parents mention
Overview
The Marine Mammal Care Center rehabilitates sick and injured pinnipeds and opens its doors to public visitors, guided by knowledgeable volunteer docents. Animal numbers shift with season - slow periods may have fewer patients in residence. Families can explore hands-on exhibits, join weekly STEM programming through S.E.A. Lab, and attend Family Science Sundays covering different ocean topics each week. A gift shop supports the centre's operating costs.
