The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is located at the beginning of the Santa Monica Pier on the lower level and is one of the top things to do while exploring the pier. The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium strives to educate visitors on marine life and preservation practices and what is needed to continue keeping the oceans and sea creatures healthy. While touring the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium you'll see over 100 species of animals, including sea urchins, octopus and even sharks. You'll get the chance to see the feeding of some of the aquarium animals and learn how they live in the wild and what they need to survive.