Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Discover vibrant marine life and stunning ocean views at Birch Aquarium, a unique exploration center on a La Jolla bluff.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover vibrant marine life and stunning ocean views at Birch Aquarium, a unique exploration center on a La Jolla bluff.
"A gorgeous aquarium in San Diego, perfect for kids, family, friends, or a date!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your birch aquarium tickets online in advance .
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the aquarium .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Penguin Exhibit
Indoor habitat
Get up close with adorable penguins in their specially designed habitat. A definite crowd-pleaser for all ages!

Tidal Pools & Interactive Zones
Various indoor and outdoor areas
Touch and explore fascinating marine life in hands-on tide pool exhibits. Perfect for curious little hands!
Ocean Views & Outdoor Deck
Outdoor viewing areas
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from the aquarium's scenic outdoor deck.

Kelp Forest
Main exhibit hall
Marvel at the towering kelp forest, a vibrant underwater ecosystem teeming with diverse marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Parking & Location Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your birch aquarium tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the aquarium.
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
The free parking lot fills up fast; aim to arrive before opening for the best spots.
💰 Discount Programs
Utilize EBT/WIC for significant discounts through Museums for All.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your birch aquarium tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the aquarium.
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
The free parking lot fills up fast; aim to arrive before opening for the best spots.
💰 Discount Programs
Utilize EBT/WIC for significant discounts through Museums for All.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
Don't forget sunglasses, hats, and water, especially for the outdoor viewing areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Birch Aquarium for its engaging exhibits, especially the penguins and interactive tide pools, and its stunning oceanfront location. While some find it smaller than expected, its well-maintained displays and knowledgeable staff make it a highly recommended, family-friendly destination. The availability of discounts and free parking adds to its appeal.
"Sweet little aquarium that holds a lot of knowledge, unique sea creatures, and fun for the kiddos in a relatively small package. Lots of interactive sections for the little, s wonderful penguin experience, and a can’t miss octopus makes this a great place to visit. Free parking lot for 3 hours as well. Small cafe just outside the entrance and a lovely gift shop round out the experience."
Cami Ward
"Absolutely one of the best aquariums in the world! It's not the largest, but the variety is breath taking. Each display is FILLED (nicely) with different specimens. I can't label the photos I've included and are but a few that I took. One could literally spend an hour, or an afternoon with each display. The setting of the Birch is beautiful in itself. The place is specifically child friendly. The help is ready to help direct, to answer questions or just chat. The whole family loved it even the 3 year old. Upon making a reservation, you can choose a time in which to come, and that seems to help control the traffic. Best, great place and a must see if you are ever in San Diego"
Eugene R. Ehmann
"OMGGGGGG! This gorgeous aquarium in San Diego is absolutely one to visit. If you rock with aqua life, this one is for you. If you are looking for a fabulous Saturday adventure with the kids, family, friends, a date, this one is also for you. Different species of fish, their colours, characters, story and how they move is truly special.
Definitely wear some comfy shoes, have your sunglasses, hats and water. It gets packed so I suggest you come early to get parking that is closer to the place."
Fredrick Otieno
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Birch Aquarium is located at 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037. Many visitors drive and utilize the free parking lot, though it can fill up quickly.
Public transportation options like the trolley and bus are also available, though may require more transfers. It's also a popular spot for date ideas in San Diego.Yes, Birch Aquarium offers a free parking lot. However, it is relatively small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, you can reach Birch Aquarium via public transport. Combining the trolley with bus routes is possible, though it might involve more transfers than driving. Check local transit schedules for the most efficient routes.
Birch Aquarium is generally stroller-friendly, with paved pathways throughout most of the exhibits. It's a popular destination for families with young children.
To avoid traffic, especially during afternoon rush hours (2-5 pm), consider visiting earlier in the day or on weekdays. Utilizing public transport can also help bypass road congestion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission for Birch Aquarium tickets is around $29 per adult. Military personnel receive a discount of $3 off per ticket.
Children under 2 years old are free. Special programs and events may have different pricing.Yes, Birch Aquarium offers several discount programs. This includes a $3 discount for military personnel
and significant savings for EBT and WIC cardholders through the Museums for All program, making birch aquarium tickets discount accessible. Check their website for current offers and 'Kids Free October' promotions.It is highly recommended to purchase your birch aquarium tickets and make reservations online in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure entry and a smooth experience.
Birch Aquarium hours typically vary by season. It's best to check the official Birch Aquarium website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, Birch Aquarium participates in the Museums for All initiative, allowing EBT cardholders to purchase discounted admission tickets, often for as low as $3 per person.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the adorable penguin exhibit,
the interactive tide pools, the stunning kelp forest, and the unique ocean views from the outdoor deck. The Japanese spider crab and oarfish specimen are also highlights for marine biology enthusiasts.Absolutely! Birch Aquarium is very toddler-approved.
The interactive tide pools, smaller exhibits, and engaging displays make it a fun and educational experience for young children.Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring Birch Aquarium. However, you could easily spend longer if you take your time with each exhibit or attend a special program.
Birch Aquarium hosts various events, including 'The Oceans at Night' for adults (21+) with live music and cocktails,
and private walking tours of Scripps Pier at sunset. Check their schedule for current offerings.The 'Hidden Swing' is a popular spot located near Birch Aquarium in La Jolla. It requires a short walk from the aquarium's parking area and offers a unique photo opportunity with ocean views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe located just outside the entrance of Birch Aquarium where you can purchase snacks and drinks.
Many visitors also bring their own water and snacks.While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own water bottles and perhaps some light snacks, especially for families. However, for full meals, the cafe is the designated option.
The aquarium itself has a cafe. For a wider variety of dining options, the surrounding La Jolla area offers numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries, from casual to upscale.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of marine life, the kelp forest, and the panoramic ocean views from the outdoor deck.
The colorful tropical coral habitat is also a vibrant subject. Don't forget the penguins!Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Birch Aquarium for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography that could disturb the animals.
Yes, the jellyfish exhibits are a popular subject for photography at Birch Aquarium. Their ethereal beauty makes for captivating shots.
Absolutely! The outdoor deck offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean, making it a prime spot for scenic photography.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for indoor exhibits. A zoom lens can be helpful for capturing details of marine life without getting too close. Your smartphone camera will also capture great memories.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scripps Institution of Oceanography Connection
This affiliation allows visitors to learn about cutting-edge oceanography in an accessible way. You can often find information about current research projects and the importance of protecting our oceans. The aquarium also offers unique programs, like private walking tours of Scripps Pier, where you can learn about sharks and even participate in a squid dissection.
Family Fun & Toddler Adventures
Beyond the animals, the aquarium's manageable size means you won't be overwhelmed trying to navigate with strollers or tired little legs. The staff are often noted for being friendly and helpful, ready to answer questions and enhance the family experience. With programs like 'Kids Free October' and discounted tickets for EBT/WIC holders, it's an accessible outing for many families.
Unique Events & Adult Experiences
Another special offering is the private walking tour of Scripps Pier at sunset. This exclusive experience, available on select weekends, provides a behind-the-scenes look at a working oceanographic research pier. Participants can learn about sharks, examine plankton under a microscope, and even engage in a squid dissection, offering a deeper dive into marine science.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit