Fifteen minutes north of downtown San Diego, Birch Aquarium nestles 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.

Experience stunning ocean views on Tide Pool Plaza while getting hands-on with local tide pool animals. Get up close with local shark and ray species on Blue Beach. Visit Seadragons & Seahorses, one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world. And don't miss Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins, the only place on the West coast you can see the world's smallest species of penguins!

Birch Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with extended hours during peak seasons. Tickets are $29.95 for adults and $24.95 for children ages 3-17 (free ages 2 and under). Advanced reservations are required (except for members) and the aquarium often sells out. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information including the daily schedule and to reserve tickets.