- Must-sees
Up to 2 hours
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
If you're looking for a San Diego aquarium, look no further than Birch Aquarium at Scripps in La Jolla.
What you'll do
Learn about coral reefs, watch baby seahorses play, listen to whale songs, and even pet sea stars at this immersive aquarium in San Diego.
You'll see everything from sharks and lobsters to turtles while learning all about ocean science and the marine environment. There are daily feedings and sea life interactions to watch, and if you want to get hands-on, you can head to the touch pool and pet sea stars and crabs.
The Birch Aquarium interprets the research and discoveries of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography – a world leader in marine science – so you'll be learning straight from the source.
Birch Aquarium highlights
Tide Pool Plaza
Have the unique opportunity to touch local tide pool creatures like sea anemones, sea stars and sea urchins.
Seadragons & Seahorses
View one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world.
Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins
Don’t miss the only opportunity in the western U.S. to see Little Blue Penguins.
Embodied Pacific: Ocean Unseen
Explore Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Indigenous science through the eyes of contemporary artists. Ten installations offer guests the chance to engage in scientific exploration through immersive, interactive experiences.
Riveropolis
Experience water-play that uses play and the magic of flowing water to inspire creativity and community building through an interactive miniature river.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Available as add-ons.
Daily feedings and talks
Where you'll be
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, San Diego, USOperating hours
Daily: 9AM – 7PM
We recommend checking directly with the attraction's own website for updates on opening hours as the aquarium may close early for events.
Closings & holidays
The aquarium will be closed on the following dates:
- Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
-
Closed on September 30, 2024 - October 3, 2024.
All holiday hours are subject to change without notice.
Find out more
For more information, visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps website.
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