Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Loggerhead Sea Turtle at Birch Aquarium

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute is an Aquarium and public exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego. It is known for promoting, practicing, and educating about conservation backed by marine science.

Birch Aquarium's expert aquarist team has been protecting seahorses in captivity for more than 20 years. You can see a collection of these Birch Aquarium born seahorses on display.

Hundreds of these beautiful creatures have been sent worldwide to help deduce collection pressure on wild populations. Birch Aquarium has shipped seahorses to more than 70 zoos and aquariums around the world. They have efficiently raised 12 species of seahorses.

Seahorses at the Birch Aquarium are actually featured on our Most Fun Things to do in San Diego!

Whale Statues Outside the Birch Aquarium

Birch Aquarium is leading the charge in preserving California’s natural marine habitats. When I visit, I know my admission fee is going toward a good cause, as proceeds are used to support research and conservation efforts both locally and around the globe.

The aquarium has also played a key role in breeding endangered and threatened marine animals, including sea dragons and Little Blue Penguins.

As a member of the Aquarium Conservation Partnership, Birch Aquarium coordinates its efforts with dozens of other aquariums to multiply its impact. The aquarium also has a Climate Action Council that helps reduce its carbon footprint.

Kids Playground at Birch Aquarium

I love taking the kids to Birch Aquarium because not only is it fun for the whole family, but it’s also a great educational experience. Kids can learn about different marine creatures, including those with natural “superpowers” like camouflage, producing electricity, and protecting themselves from predators.

Informational postings outside the tanks and in exhibit displays let kids learn while they play.

Birch Aquarium Kids Shark Photo Booth

Toddler Time

Toddler Time is every other Wednesday at 10 am, with every Wednesday differing from the other. Toddlers can have fun with music as well as art and yoga.

This is an outdoor event that depends on the weather, so it would be canceled if it were to rain. It's also a great idea to check the schedule for this activity as the time and day are always subject to change.

Birch Aquarium Sea Horse Exhibit

Summer Camps

All the camps are live and taught by two of the Birch Aquarium's expert instructors. Campers can create crafts, participate in experiments, learn about oceanography, and virtually interact with ocean sea life!

Camps run weekdays, typically from June 22 through August 21; check the schedule before signing up.

Behind the Scenes Tours

Take a sneak peek behind the scenes at the unique and diverse world of seahorses. Here is where you can check out the little seahorse babies! Take the opportunity to learn about the Birch Aquarium's renowned breeding program.

In the tours, you will understand what it takes to care for these cute little creatures! For members, it is an additional $30. For the public, it is $35.

See what’s planned throughout the year at Birch Aquarium.

Moon Jellyfish at Birch Aquarium

Annual Events at Birch Aquarium

World Oceans Day is June 8, and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps celebrates it with a week of virtual fun! Join for unique live streams, new in-home, hands-on science activities, fun facts, and more.

The Aquarium explores Marine Protected Areas near and far and learns how to take specific measures to understand and protect the oceans.

Kids Play Science Area at Birch Aquarium

Celebrate Holidays at Birch Aquarium

Spend your Easter at the Eggstravaganza on weekends! Some activities are available on weekdays. This includes Scuba Bunny, which is to help the Birch Aquarium at Scripps celebrate the arrival of spring and the changes it brings during Eggstravaganza!

Admire animal eggs, create a shark egg craft, and participate in an "underwater egg hunt."

Saturdays and Sundays are Scuba Bunny themed Dive Shows. Arrive early, so you don't miss the action!

An annual celebration is held every April for Earth Day. Join in the Party for the Planet fun with kid-friendly activities and lessons about biodiversity.

Live Cams to Watch at the Birch Aquarium

The aquarist team at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps has been undergoing an experiment to limit irritant algae's growth in their Giant Kelp Forest. This alga proliferates in the conditions of our habitat, but it can quickly become severely dangerous.

You can watch all of their efforts and findings on the Aquariums Kelp Cam for free!

How Best Get to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps

To get to the Birch Aquarium from the north, south, or west, you will want to follow signs to exit onto La Jolla Shores Drive. From there, you will see signs for Birch Aquarium. This will take you to Downwind Way, where you will fork to the right to stay on Downwind Way.

Suppose you are coming from the east, exit onto Torrey Pines Road. From Torrey Pines, you will fork to the left to merge onto Downwind Way. From there, the parking lot will be on your left.

Parking Information

If you have a large, oversize vehicle, parking on the premises is not allowed. For buses, RV's, or other types of large vehicles, parking is available along La Jolla Shores Drive.

Since there is a limit as to how many can park here, it's a good idea to get there as early as possible.

For other vehicles, there is a three-hour courtesy parking at Birch Aquarium. If you would like to stay longer, you may pay a small fee to receive a parking pass to extend your stay.

The Aquarium is also offering accessible, friendly parking with designated handicapped spots. However, if none are available, you may drop off and pick up your loved one off at the building's front at the traffic circle.

Keep these tips in mind when visiting.

Contast1 Birch Aquarium Gray Whale Statues

Hours and Days of Operation

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps is open from 9 am until 5 pm daily. Before going to the Aquarium, check online for a daily schedule to be aware of what is going on the day you visit.

Days and hours are always subject to change. This is another reason why it is a good idea to check before you go.

Money-Saving Tips

If you are staying at a hotel, check out their brochures. Sometimes, they will have extra coupons to help you save money for specific exhibits. Also, they contain coupons for some places to eat around the area.

The first full weekend of every month, there's free general admission if you show your Bank of America card. However, only the person whose name is on the card can receive complimentary access.

You Cannot Enter After Leaving the Aquarium

Once you're out, you're done, unfortunately. So, you must figure out how long you want to stay and enjoy everything. There are no re-entry stamps or wristbands.

If you are waiting for additional people to show, it's a good idea to talk about a meeting area. Most people prefer to stay outside for the other parties. That way, no one has to worry about the inability to leave the building.

Dining Options

Devour mouth-watering pastries, tasty salads, sandwiches, and delicious desserts that will have you wanting more all at the Shark Cafe. They are open from 9:30 am until 3:30 pm.

It is preferred to order online before going, so that's something to keep in mind.

Only Trained Service Dogs Allowed

Only trained service animals are allowed in the facility for your pets' safety and the guests.

Please do not bring your pet or leave them in your car, no matter the weather.

Always Check Online for Aquarium Specifics

The activities, events, and hours of the Aquarium may change without notice. Take the time to look before you go; that way, you're not met with any unpleasant surprises!