Looking for fun with a side of science? La Jolla’s Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the place for you. As the public outreach center for the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Birch Aquarium brings guests into the exciting world of cutting-edge research. Explore interactive exhibits and come face to face with exciting creatures including a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, a Giant Pacific Octopus, Leopard Sharks and jellies. Don’t miss the two-story Giant Kelp Forest or the outdoor touch pools that feature stunning ocean views and the opportunity to get hands-on with juvenile sharks and rays as well as sea stars, sea cucumbers and abalone.
Birch Aquarium is now open indoors and out. Face coverings are required by all guests ages 2 and up, and advanced reservations are required for all guests, including members. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information.
Current & Upcoming Exhibitions
More Time for Fun – Extended Summer Hours
For the first time ever Birch Aquarium is offering extended summer hours. From July 1-August 31, 2021, the aquarium, which has traditionally closed at 5 p.m., will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. During extended hours, all exhibits and hands-on activities — including the new touch pool exhibit where guests can touch juvenile sharks — will remain open, and guests will also be able to explore a new 600-gallon cylindrical Moon Jelly experience in the Hall of Fishes. As with any visit to Birch Aquarium, advanced reservations for a specific date and time are required, even for members.
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
