The 1988 NCAA Men's Water Polo Championship was the 20th annual NCAA Men's Water Polo Championship to determine the national champion of NCAA men's collegiate water polo. Tournament matches were played at the in Long Beach, California during December 1988. California defeated UCLA in the final, 14–11, to win their eighth national title. Coached by Pete Cutino, the Golden Bears finished the season 33–3. The Most Outstanding Player of the tournament was Kirk Everist (California). An All-Tournament Team of seven players was also named.