The Birch Aquarium is home to to more than 5,000 fish in over 60 habitats. And 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
Boundless Energy – this interactive exhibit explores the future of renewable energy and the innovative ways scientists are using natural forces like the wind, sun, and other sources to power our daily lives, so that we can conserve our resources and live in a sustainable world.
Feeling the Heat – Birch Aquarium presents the science and challenges of global climate change – backed by 50 years of research from Scripps' Institution of Oceanography. Check out a futuristic news report showing what the weather may look like in 2050, and test your knowledge on the extent to which everyday items impact the environment.
There’s Something About Seahorses – did you know male seahorses can become pregnant? Visit their babies in the seahorse nursery and come nose to ‘snout’ with these fascinating seahorses and seadragons.
Infinity Cube: Language of Light – explore the phenomenon of bioluminescence in the marine environment when you step into the “infinity cube” which displays more than six hours of film footage of single-celled marine organisms reacting to various stimulants.
ElasmoBeach – meet the ‘locals’ when you come face-to-face with leopard sharks and elasmobranchs (a species of rays) in this large outdoor tank that explores the animals that live in La Jolla shores.
Research in Action – visit the more than 60 habitats housed here, including a 70,000-gallon kelp forest tank and habitats of creatures found from the Pacific Northwest to the tropical waters of Mexico. You'll see some of the world's most beautiful species including whitetip and blacktip reef sharks. Learn all about how coral reefs around the world are being affected by climate change and help scientists attempt to answer why some reefs are suffering while others are thriving.
Expedition at Sea – get a glimpse into the research that goes on at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and see what it’s like to live and work aboard a research sea vessel, the R/V Sally Ride. You’ll get to see footage from the ship’s 100+ years of exploration and learn about specimens discovered during the ship’s time at sea.
Tide Pool Plaza – get your hands wet for an up-close look at "life on the edge" of the ocean. You’ll get to touch sea stars, sea anemones, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, lobsters, and more in organisms that live in rocky intertidal habitats.
Mexican Seas / Mares Mexicanos – take a photographic journey to four unique biodiversity hotspots that can be found in Mexican waters and learn about “the art of science” and how it’s used to inspire conservation and awareness.
Hall of Fishes - from the frigid waters of the Pacific Northwest to the tropical Indo-Pacific seas, there’s always unique creatures to spot in the Hall of Fishes. Don’t miss the giant pacific octopus and the rescued loggerhead sea turtle (and the 3D printed brace on her shell).
Giant Kelp Forest - be dazzled by this two-story tall exhibit that showcases the giant kelp forests found throughout southern california. Spot bright orange Garibaldi fish and marvel at the endangered (and huge!) giant black seabass.
Seadragons & Seahorses - features one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world! Learn all about these charismatic creatures and get a peek into the work the aquarium’s renowned husbandry team is doing to ensure their survival.
Look no further than Go San Diego – get Birch Aquarium at Scripps tickets, plus admission to tons more top San Diego attractions.
