Fifteen minutes north of downtown San Diego, you will find Birch Aquarium, a hidden gem nestled 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. 

In the Hall of Fishes, guests come face to face with a Giant Pacific Octopus, a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Moon Jellies and Leopard Sharks, to name a few. Out on Tide Pool Plaza, you will take in stunning ocean views while getting hands-on with local tide pool animals including juvenile sharks, then it’s off to Seadragons & Seahorses, where you will see one of the largest Weedy Seadragon exhibits in the world. 

Meet the world’s smallest penguins in a brand new exhibit at Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, CA. Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins follows these pintsized penguins on their journey from hatchlings to adults, highlighting the challenges they face in a changing climate while celebrating the features that make them so unique (and adorable). Don't miss daily Penguin feedings and talks. 

Birch Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with extended hours during peak seasons. Tickets are $24.95 for adults and $19.95 for children ages 3-17 (free ages 2 and under). Advanced reservations are required and the aquarium often sells out. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information including the daily schedule and to reserve tickets.