Los Angeles Maritime Museum

The Los Angeles Maritime Museum occupies a former ferry terminal building and displays ship models, diving gear, and maritime objects from different periods. The structure dates from the early 1940s and offers insight into the region's connection to the sea.

The building was constructed in the early 1940s as part of a federal work program and began operating as a ferry terminal. When the Vincent Thomas Bridge opened in 1963, the ferry service ended and the space was eventually converted into a museum.

The museum reveals how fishing and professional diving shaped the community of San Pedro over time. Visitors can explore the role that local islands and fish canning operations played in the region's daily life and work.

Plan to spend around two to three hours exploring the collections comfortably. The location sits right on the waterfront near other harbor attractions, making it easy to combine with additional activities in the area.

The museum owns an actual tugboat that served the military during World War II, now available for visitors to see. This vessel offers a rare look at military shipping history that often gets overlooked in standard exhibitions.

Location: California

Official opening: 1980

Website: http://lamaritimemuseum.org

GPS coordinates: 33.73870,-118.27900

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:02