Open During Construction
We are currently undergoing the biggest renovation in our history as the Hall of Fishes is transformed into Living Seas. During construction, many of our animals — including our Loggerhead Sea Turtle and Giant Pacific Octopus — have been moved behind the scenes.
In the interim, we have added several new experiences. Explore the page below for tips on planning your visit to make the most of your aquarium experience.
Ticket Prices
| Price | |
|---|---|
| Adult | $29.95 |
| Child (3-17, 2 and under free) | $24.95 |
| Senior (60+) | $27.95 |
| Students (ID required) | $27.95 |
| UC San Diego Students, Faculty and Staff (ID required) | $3 off admission |
| Military (ID required) | $3 off admission |
Aquarium Hours
Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. January-February and October-December
Open daily 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 1-Labor Day
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's days.
Last entry is one hour prior to closing.
What's New
An exciting year is ahead at Birch Aquarium as we build Living Seas! While this reimagined exhibition is under construction, there's still a world of wonder waiting for you at the aquarium including new experiences like Embodied Pacific: Ocean Unseen, Riveropolis and Coral Classroom!
Daily Schedule
Looking to make the most of your visit? Be sure to check the Daily Schedule for engaging talks, exciting feedings, and fun events to make the most of your visit!
Open Exhibits
From incredible animals like Little Blue Penguins and Weedy Seadragons to interactive, hands-on experiences at Tide Pool Plaza and Blue Beach, Birch Aquarium is packed with excitement for all ages! Below you'll find a list of all exhibits open at the aquarium.
Enhance Your Visit
Elevate your aquarium experience with an unforgettable Outdoor Adventure! Join a Birch Aquarium educator for a sunset exploration of Scripps Pier or discover fascinating marine life in our local tide pools.
DIRECTIONS AND PARKING
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
Parking:
- Free 3-hour parking.
- Large vehicle parking available along La Jolla Shores Drive, west of Birch Aquarium.
Group Tickets and Tours
Discounts for groups of 10 or more are automatically applied when you add 10+ tickets to your shopping cart.
| Price | |
|---|---|
| Adults (ages 18-59) | $26.95 per person |
| Seniors (60+) | $24.95 per person |
| Child (ages 3 to 17) | $21.95 per person |
| Students (ID required) | $24.95 per person |
Accessibility
Birch Aquarium strives to be fully accessible to all of our guests.
Parking
Birch Aquarium has designated accessible parking spaces available as well as the option of curbside pickup and drop-off in the traffic circle near the front entrance.
Wheelchairs
All of Birch Aquarium is wheelchair accessible. While most of the aquarium is on one level, there are ramps on Tide Pool Plaza and Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins. Wheelchairs are available to borrow from Guest Services on a first-come, first-served basis.
Service Animals
Trained service animals are permitted inside the aquarium.
Please Note
If you require special assistance or adaptive services please notify Guest Services as soon as possible so we can arrange for the services to be in place. Please call (858) 534-3474 or email aquariuminfo@ucsd.edu.
Shopping AND Dining
The Gift Shop
The Birch Aquarium Gift Shop is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until the aquarium closes.
Splash! Café by The French Gourmet
Splash! Café is open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is not required in order to eat at the café.
Members receive a discount!