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Perched on a bluff with sweeping ocean views, Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a one-of-a-kind venue that blends stunning scenery with inspiring science.

As the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, we feature 60+ marine habitats — including a breathtaking two-story Giant Kelp Forest.

From weddings to retreats, our team is here to help you create the best. day. ever.

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Event Spaces

Beautiful spaces and breathtaking views combine to create a day you’ll never forget!  

Rental Brochure (PDF)

Venue Map (PDF)

Please note, all available spaces and guest numbers are subject to change.

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Full Facility

At more than 30,000 square feet, Birch Aquarium can accommodate up to 1,500 guests with multiple indoor/outdoor setup configurations available. Guests will be able to explore ocean habitats, get hands-on with Scripps Oceanography science, and enjoy some of the best ocean views in San Diego.

The Galleria

The Shelia Marie Davis Galleria features multi-story windows and stunning ocean views. At 4,200 square feet, this unique indoor space accommodates 400 people for a stand-up reception, 200 for a sit-down dinner, 160 for buffet-style service, and 375 for a theater-style event. 

Preuss Tide Pool Plaza

Featuring one of the most spectacular views at Birch Aquarium, Preuss Tide Pool Plaza is a 3,750-square-foot outdoor space with access to the aquarium’s tide pool exhibits. The split-level accessible space accommodates 500 people for a stand-up reception, 140 for a sit-down dinner and 175 for a wedding ceremony. 

The Director's Deck

Our spacious conference room is a single room with a whiteboard, 90” TV, internet, and A/V connections. This room can accommodate up to 60 guests and has access to the Director’s Deck, which provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a wonderful spot for breaks or lunch. 

Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins

This 3,000-square-foot open-air courtyard is enclosed on all sides and surrounded by Little Blue Penguins swimming, waddling and nesting.

Café Pavilion

Located at the entrance of Birch Aquarium, this 10,000 square-foot open-air pavilion accommodates 1,000 people for a stand-up reception or 500 seated. It is a spacious area for a variety of events and features dramatic life-sized brass statues of breaching gray whales.

Entrance Courtyard

This 3,000-square-foot entirely open air space is a great area to extend your party from the indoor Galleria. It accommodates 300 for a reception and 170 for a sit-down dinner.

Blue Beach

Blue Beach is a flexible 6,000-square-foot plaza that features stunning ocean views as well as a 4,500-square-foot floor mural depicting a map of the underwater canyons off La Jolla Shores. Blue Beach accommodates 550 people for a stand-up reception or 300 seated, and is also available for semi private rentals during the aquarium’s operating hours.

CORPORATE EVENTS

Create a memorable time for your staff or clients where they can explore the aquarium with their hors d’oeuvres and beverages in hand.

CORPORATE EVENT DETAILS

Weddings

Beautiful spaces and breathtaking views combine to create a day you’ll never forget! 

WEDDING EVENT DETAILS

SOCIAL EVENTS

Birch Aquarium is available for both exclusive after-hours events and for semi-private daytime functions.

SOCIAL EVENT DETAILS

Catering

Our exclusive catering partners are as passionate about the environment as we are.

CATERER COLLECTION

Where Science meets Sophistication

With spectacular views outside and an ocean world of wonder inside, Birch Aquarium is a unique and engaging venue for your next event.

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