Fifteen minutes north of downtown San Diego, you will find Birch Aquarium, a hidden gem nestled among the cliffs of La Jolla. As the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, Birch Aquarium’s hands-on exhibits explore the latest in oceanographic discovery, while introducing guests to a variety of amazing creatures.
In the Hall of Fishes, guests come face to face with a Giant Pacific Octopus, a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Moon Jellies and Leopard Sharks, to name a few. Out on Tide Pool Plaza, you will take in stunning ocean views while getting hands-on with local tide pool animals including juvenile sharks, then it’s off to Seadragons & Seahorses, where you will see one of the largest Weedy Seadragon exhibits in the world.
Meet the world’s smallest penguins in a brand new exhibit. Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins follows these pint-sized penguins on their journey from hatchlings to adults, highlighting the challenges they face in a changing climate while celebrating the features that make them so unique (and adorable). Don’t miss daily Penguin feedings and talks. Check the daily schedule for penguin feedings and talks. Behind-the-Scenes: Penguin Tours are also available for an additional fee.
Tickets are $24.95 for adults and $19.95 for children ages 3-17 (free ages 2 and under). Note that the aquarium often sells out, so advanced reservations are recommended. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information or to reserve your tickets today.
Visit Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Address:
2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, CA
92037
Phone:
(858) 534-FISH
Hours:
Open daily from 9AM - 5PM with extended summer hours in July and August until 7 p.m.
Website:
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA
