Behind-the-Scenes: Seahorse Tours

Venture behind the scenes for a one-hour private tour and explore the fascinating world of seahorses. Get a glimpse of seahorse babies, learn about Birch Aquarium's renowned breeding program, and understand what it takes to care for these unusual fish on this immersive behind-the-scenes tour!

Everything you need to know about Behind-the-Scenes: Seahorse Tours 

Time: Offered Daily at 11:00 a.m.

Price: Member $80, Non Member $95. Aquarium admission included.

Guests must be at least 8 years of age to participate. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Guests must wear closed-toed shoes for this encounter.

Reserve Tour Tickets

When is the seahorse tour offered?

Offered daily at 11:00 a.m. This guided tour lasts one hour, and includes 30 minutes behind the scenes.

What is the capacity of the seahorse tour?

We can accommodate up to 6 guests. Each guest must have a ticket for the tour. 

How do I purchase tickets?

Purchase tickets online, by phone at 858.534.3474 or onsite in the Guest Services Office. Tickets must be purchased at least 1 hour prior to start time.

Is there an age restriction?

Guests must be at least 8 years of age to participate. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Where and when do I meet to check in? 

Present your Behind-the-Scenes ticket at our ticket booth when you first arrive to the aquarium. Participants meet in Smargon Courtyard 10 minutes before scheduled tour — look for large floor sign indicating the tour meeting place. After the tour concludes, you are welcome to explore the rest of the aquarium.

What should I wear?

Guests must wear closed-toed shoes for this encounter. For you safety, sandals and heels are not allowed to be worn behind the scenes.

Do I have to wear a face covering?

Yes. During the behind-the-scenes portion of the tour all staff and guests are required to wear a face covering over their nose and mouth — both indoors and out regardless of vaccination status.

If you have a medical or mental health condition, or disability that prevents you from wearing a face covering, please contact Guest Services before making your reservations.

Will I be allowed to take pictures? 

Only during the first half of the tour; once the tour goes behind-the-scenes, photography and video recording is not allowed. No exceptions. 

May I bring large bags or backpacks on the tour?

Large bags and backpacks are not permitted on the tour.  They may be left in the Visitor Services Office during the tour.

Can I reschedule or receive a refund for my behind-the-scenes tour experience?

Refunds are not available, however if canceled 24 hours before the start of the tour and space permits, it may be possible to reschedule to a future date. Please note: non-members would need to purchase general admission for their new tour date.  

Is this tour ADA accessible?

Most (but not all) behind-the-scenes areas are ADA accessible. In some areas a wheelchair can access but will not be able to turn around and will need to back out to exit the space. Some tours may include small ladders and/or stairs with a few steps which are not ADA accessible.  Be prepared for dim lighting and potentially wet floors.

Are Service Animals permitted on the behind-the-scenes tour?

Yes, but Birch Aquarium reserves the right to exclude service animals from these areas if they pose a direct threat to our animal population. Please note: access to behind-the-scenes areas requires stepping on foot bath pads which contain sanitizing chemicals that pose a hazard if ingested and should be rinsed off if skin contact occurs.

For other accommodation requests please contact Guest Services at aquariuminfo@ucsd.edu or 858.534.FISH (3474)