Living Coast Discovery Center
A non-profit zoo & aquarium inspiring conservation through rescued local wildlife and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate
Living Coast Discovery Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A non-profit zoo & aquarium inspiring conservation through rescued local wildlife and interactive exhibits.
"A hidden gem where kids can learn, explore, and connect with nature."
🚗 Shuttle is Required
Park at the lot and take the shuttle to the center. It's a short, fun ride! :bus:
🤝 Knowledgeable Staff
Engage with the passionate staff; they're full of great info about the animals and conservation. :star:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Touch Tanks
Shark & Stingray Tank
Get up close and personal with stingrays and sharks in these interactive, educational touch pools.
Rescued Sea Turtles
Sea Turtle Enclosure
Marvel at the impressive rescued sea turtles, a favorite for many visitors, especially kids.
Raptor Exhibits
Bird Enclosures
See majestic golden and bald eagles, and learn about other rescued birds of prey.
Chula Vista Bayfront Trails
Adjacent to the Center
Explore free, scenic trails offering beautiful views of the marshlands and bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Shuttle Service is Key
Conservation Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Shuttle is Required
Park at the lot and take the shuttle to the center. It's a short, fun ride! :bus:
🤝 Knowledgeable Staff
Engage with the passionate staff; they're full of great info about the animals and conservation. :star:
💰 Autism Discount Available
Inquire about discounts for visitors with autism. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't miss the free walking trails around the bay for stunning views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Shuttle is Required
Park at the lot and take the shuttle to the center. It's a short, fun ride! :bus:
🤝 Knowledgeable Staff
Engage with the passionate staff; they're full of great info about the animals and conservation. :star:
💰 Autism Discount Available
Inquire about discounts for visitors with autism. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't miss the free walking trails around the bay for stunning views.
📸 Great for Little Ones
Perfectly sized for young children, offering an engaging and not overwhelming experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Living Coast Discovery Center for its educational value, engaging exhibits, and focus on conservation. It's a beloved spot for families, offering an intimate and not overwhelming experience with knowledgeable staff. While small, it packs a punch with its rescued animals and interactive opportunities.
"Our kids grew up coming on field trips here. Not much has changed, but it's still as interesting as it was then. This is a great place to bring kids to, to come as a family, to learn about nature and conservation. It's small enough to see everything in a day, and still go into some detail. They have many species of animals here. Their workers are very knowledgeable about the animals, their habitats and interactions.
There is a composting station/workshop, a shark and sting ray tank (for petting), as well as a sea anemone petting area, a sea turtle enclosure, several bird enclosures, a look out area with beautiful views looking over the marsh lands and the bay, and an area with picnic tables. The area is surrounded by native plants, chapparal.
The gift shop is well stocked and items are mostly affordable.
Pleasant staff who are mostly very knowledgeable. (We enjoyed talking to several employees.)
Clean bathrooms.
Expanded and closer parking lot compared to older one. Bus/shuttle van comes on a loop several times an hour. Also, there are several short hiking trails.
Definitely worth spending a day here. (Or more—when my kids were little we had annual passes. Worth the price if you plan to visit more often.)"
Jennifer Doyle
"We love the discovery center. We are frequent visitors. There are so many neat things to see including a large array of animals and birds. It is so special to see the golden and bald eagles and you'll love petting the rays. This is a great spot for families. I highly recommend it."
Evan Gusman
"My family and I enjoyed visiting the living Coast discovery center and learning about the rescued animals as well as how to compost at home. Once we arrived at the location we had to park our car, and board the shuttle to get to the center. It was a short and fun ride. As soon as we arrived at the center we immediately ran to see the huge rescued turtle. I cannot recall her name, but my son was excited to see her swimming around. The fees to enter are reasonable and although the location is small it is packed with interesting animals native to California. There was also an interactive session with an Iguana, where we learned things we didn't know prior to attending. We enjoyed our visit as it felt more intimate, less crowded, and not as overwhelming. We are looking forward to attending again as we totally overlooked the eagle and owl sections. Nevertheless, it was a great time, and the staff was absolutely awesome."
SJ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You'll need to park at the designated lot and then take a shuttle bus to the center. The shuttle runs on a loop and is a quick, enjoyable ride.
Yes, there is an expanded and closer parking lot compared to the older one. From there, you'll board the shuttle.
While there are trails nearby, the main entrance to the center requires a shuttle ride from the parking area.
Yes, the center is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a large parking area, accessible shuttle, and well-planned walking trails with ramps.
The center is located at 1000 Gunpowder Point Dr, Chula Vista, CA 91910. The parking lot is at this address, and the shuttle departs from there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally considered reasonable. The center is a non-profit, and your visit supports their conservation efforts.
Yes, there are discounts available, including for visitors with autism. It's always a good idea to check their official website or inquire upon arrival.
Hours can be seasonal, so it's best to check the Living Coast Discovery Center's official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While not always strictly required, booking in advance can be a good idea, especially during peak seasons or for special events. Check their website for online ticketing options.
Yes, it is a non-profit zoo and aquarium dedicated to conservation and education, inspiring the community to care for the coastal environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of native San Diego Bay wildlife, including sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, bald eagles, owls, crabs, octopuses, and jellyfish.
Yes, the center offers interactive experiences like petting stingrays and sharks, and sometimes interactive sessions with animals like iguanas.
Most visitors spend a couple of hours exploring the center. It's small enough to see everything without feeling rushed.
Yes, there are short hiking trails adjacent to the center that offer beautiful views of the Chula Vista Bayfront and San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
Absolutely! It's a family-friendly destination that's not overwhelming for little ones, offering educational and engaging experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture close-ups of marine life like octopuses and horn sharks, majestic raptors, and scenic views from the bayfront trails. +2
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of posted signs and avoid using flash directly on animals, as it can disturb them. +1
The touch tanks, sea turtle enclosure, and the various marine life exhibits like jellyfish and crabs offer fantastic photo opportunities. +2
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. The bayfront trails are also lovely in the late afternoon.
Drones are typically not permitted within wildlife refuges or near animal enclosures due to disturbance concerns. Check with the center for specific policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the rescued sea turtles and the impressive raptor exhibits. The staff are known for being engaging and educational, making learning fun for children. Plus, the free walking trails offer a chance for outdoor exploration with beautiful bay views.
Budget Travelers
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at their designated picnic area, saving on dining expenses. The combination of affordable entry and free outdoor activities makes it an excellent option for budget-conscious visitors.
Nature Enthusiasts & Conservationists
Explore exhibits featuring rescued animals, understand sustainability efforts, and walk the natural trails of the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The knowledgeable staff are eager to share their insights and the center's mission.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation Mission
Visitors can learn about zero-waste initiatives, composting, and the significance of native plant species. The center provides a unique opportunity to connect with and care for the coastal environment, inspiring a deeper appreciation for nature's delicate balance.
Family-Friendly Experience
+1Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits like the stingray and shark touch tanks, get up close with rescued sea turtles, and learn about local raptors. The staff are noted for being helpful and passionate, making the learning experience even more enjoyable.
Beyond the animals, the flat walking trails and picnic areas make it comfortable for families to spend a good portion of the day. The shuttle ride itself is often a highlight for younger visitors.
Exploring the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge
These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a short hike, allowing you to observe the local flora and fauna. It's a great way to extend your visit and immerse yourself in the coastal environment.
Early morning visits to the trails might offer opportunities to spot various marshland birds, which are highlighted as local neighbors. This natural setting complements the educational exhibits at the center, providing a holistic understanding of the region's wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit