Photos: Jordann Tomasek, Birch Aquarium
Celebrate the holidays sea-son in true Southern California style with a visit to Birch Aquarium! Whether you’re searching for the perfect afternoon activity with friends and family or looking to check off the last items on your holiday shopping list, we’ve got unforgettable deals waiting just for you.
Enjoy Holiday Savings on Tickets
This December, save up to $20 off weekday tickets and up to $15 off weekend tickets when you buy tickets online for visits after 3 p.m.
Save on Seahorse Tours
Discover the magic of seahorses this holiday sea-son! Book two or more spots on our Behind-the-Scenes Seahorse Tour and enjoy $15 off each ticket. Simply enter promo code SAVESEAHORSES at checkout for any December tour.
During this one-hour, educator-led experience, you’ll get an up-close look at these extraordinary animals and learn what makes them so unique. You’ll even venture behind the scenes to see how we care for them — from preparing specialized diets to raising babies in our breeding room. Plus, discover how Birch Aquarium supports seahorse conservation efforts around the globe.
Discounted Gift Memberships
When you give the gift of membership to a loved one they’ll experience a year of ocean fun and exploration at the aquarium, along with all the exclusive benefits that come with being a member.
For a limited time, receive $20 off a Coastal Explorer, Coastal Ambassador or Ocean Protector gift membership. This special offer is valid from Dec 1 - 31, 2025 and can be redeemed online (use promo code GIVEAGIFT) or in person at the aquarium's Guest Services office.
Shop and Support Birch Aquarium
Still looking for that perfect gift? Bring the magic of the ocean home with a gift from Birch Aquarium! From cozy aquarium apparel to cuddly animal plushies, our Gift Shop is packed with unique, sustainable gifts perfect for every ocean lover on your list. And if you’re not quite sure what to choose, you can always purchase a Gift Card to our Gift Shop!
Every purchase supports our animals, conservation efforts, exhibits and beyond! Finish your holiday shopping with us by visiting our Gift Shop or Online Store!
About Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Birch Aquarium features the groundbreaking work of Scripps Oceanography and UC San Diego scientists as well as conservation breeding programs and interactive exhibits. Birch Aquarium’s mission is to connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet, which it achieves through engaging hands-on learning opportunities for more than 500,000 guests and 40,000-plus pre-K-12 students each year. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information.