Grunion Runs (March-June)

Check back in February for 2010 dates!

Be part of the adventure as you observe up to a hundred or more silvery fish coming ashore to spawn. Birch Aquarium educators/naturalists get things started with a presentation on grunion and their unique behavior during spawning season. The fun continues with the hatching of grunion eggs and a stroll on the beach to look for these infamous fish. Weather permitting.

On certain spring nights, hundreds of small silvery fish called grunion ride the waves onto the sandy shores of Southern California and Northern Baja California to spawn. Join Birch Aquarium at Scripps to witness this unusual mating ritual as naturalists will guide you through an unforgettable night of activities, including the hatching of grunion eggs. 

Please keep in mind, La Jolla Coastal Reserve is a no-take area, meaning there is no fishing allowed. During the grunion run, we only observe the fish, we do not collect them.

Come prepared for cool, wet conditions. Don't forget your flashlight! Ages 6-13 must be accompanied by a paid adult.