Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Dive into the wonders of the Pacific Ocean at Birch Aquarium at Scripps! With stunning exhibits, interactive tide pools, and breathtaking ocean views, this La Jolla gem is a must-visit for ocean lovers and families alike.

Why Visit Birch Aquarium at Scripps?

Explore the imitation of life in the ocean closely at the Birch Aquarium. The aquarium that might seem compact has over 3000 fin featuring animals, whirling smoothly through the crystal clear water. 

Explore The Hall of fishes with huge tanks displaying a dense formation of kelps with the underwater hunters like sharks and eels. Stroll across the Tide Pool Plaza where docents educate visitors with particulars of each organism and might even let the visitors softly stroke sea stars, sea urchins and many more. 

The aquarium’s exhibit of Sea Dragons and Seahorses, gliding their way through water in which seahorses with their peculiar upright swimming and sea dragons possessing the impressive ability to camouflage and blend with the surrounding sea weed and kelps, leaves the visitors awestruck. Observe the tiniest yet most adorable blue penguins, swimming and hopping right in front of your eyes. 

The Birch Aquarium actively promotes the conservation of these aquatic animals and helps improve their lives by providing appropriate environmental conditions for their survival and breeding programs to increase numbers. Science, adventure, exploration and conservation efforts meet at this aquarium. Birch aquarium is a perfect location for science enthusiasts looking to feed their curiosity or anyone yearning for a refreshing retreat.

What to Expect at Birch Aquarium

1. Exhibits and Displays:

• Hall of Fishes: Home to over 60 tanks showcasing colorful marine life from the Pacific.
• Seahorse Symphony: A mesmerizing exhibit featuring seahorses, sea dragons, and pipefish.
• Tide Pool Plaza: Touch tide pool creatures like sea stars and hermit crabs in this interactive outdoor exhibit.
• Feeling the Heat: The Climate Challenge: An educational exhibit on climate change and its effects on marine ecosystems.

1. Outdoor Attractions:

• Whale Outlook: A scenic spot with panoramic ocean views and information about migrating gray whales.
• Preuss Tide Pool Plaza: Perfect for kids and adults to interact with marine life up close.

1. Special Programs:

• Behind-the-scenes tours, summer camps for kids, and seasonal events like “Earth Day” celebrations.

Tips for the Best Experience

1. Look for special events like ‘Oceans at night’ that are arranged by the aquarium beforehand.
2. Block time and observe the daily feedings of these animals for insights on how they are taken care of.
3. Visit the Tide Pool Plaza for panoramic views of the Pacific and interactive experiences with sea stars and sea urchins.
4. Arrive early to avoid unnecessary crowds.
5. Take behind the scenes tour for a deeper understanding of the aquatic ecosystem.

How to Get to Birch Aquarium

1. By bus: Take MTS route 30 or 101, get off at La Jolla Shores Dr and walk for five minutes to reach the aquarium.
2. By car: From I-5 exit at La Jolla Dr, follow west to Expedition Way, turn left and follow the signs to the aquarium.

What Every Traveler Should Know

1. Entrance fees: $34.95(above 13 years), $29.95(below 13 years of age)
2. Opening hours: 9am to 5pm, check daily schedule on the official website.
3. Average time to explore: 2-3 hours.