The Birch Aquarium

Birch Aquarium is part of the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego. Here you can wander through scores of unique marine habitats that represent some of the Scripps Institution’s finest research accomplishments. Notable installations at Birch Aquarium include Shark Shores, Tidepool Plaza, Giant Kelp Forest, and the newest addition to the attraction, the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins habitat.

Save on your visit to the Birch Aquarium!
Birch Aquarium is included on the Go San Diego Pass. Save an additional 5% on the Go City Pass with Coupon Code: GO5CMANTIS The discount stacks on top the current sale prices! Promo expires on February 29th.

Birch Aquarium History 

Birch Aquarium has a long, rich history. The Marine Biological Association of San Diego, the predecessor to the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, was founded in 1903 for the purpose of conducting research on local marine life conditions. This organization established a small laboratory and aquarium in 1905, and would spend the next half-century growing in size and stature while passing through a number of different locations and facilities.

In 1951, the Scripps Aquarium-Museum was opened, and for over 40 years this was the premier marine research aquarium in the area. In time, though, a larger, more modern facility was required, and with the significant financial backing of the Stephen and Mary Birch Foundation, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps opened its doors in 1992. This popular attraction has been educating and delighting visitors ever since.

What’s at the Birch Aquarium

Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is home to numerous distinct marine habitats set across several permanent exhibits. No matter your favorite species of ocean-dweller, you’ll find something to be amazed by throughout educational exhibits such as Seadragons & Seahorses, Giant Kelp Forest, and Shark Shores. In particular, the Hall of Fishes showcases the remarkable diversity of life that calls the Pacific Ocean home.

Tide Pool Plaza is another fantastic exhibit found here. The man-made tide pools on display in this space have been designed to replicate the sort of tide pools that dot the San Diego coastline, and they’re full of fascinating creatures like sea anemones, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, and lobsters. This outdoor exhibit also features breathtaking views of La Jolla and the ocean, so have your cameras ready!

Guests hoping to grab something tasty to eat during their visit to Birch Aquarium are in luck, as Splash! Café serves up both breakfast and lunch. The menu is small but balanced, with fruit cups, salads, sandwiches, pastries, and coffees all available at reasonable prices. What’s more, this open-air restaurant is located just outside the aquarium’s front entrance, making it a terrific spot to eat on your way in or out of the attraction.

The Birch Aquarium Gift Shop sells a variety of toys, games, clothing, jewelry, accessories, and more. Whether you’re in the market for a cute stuffed penguin, a birthday present for your nephew who’s obsessed with all things ocean-related, or you just want a souvenir to remember your visit, this gift shop has you covered.

Tips for Visiting the Birch Aquarium

  • If you are seeing other sights while in San Diego you can save some money if by getting a Go San Diego Pass. The Birch Aquarium is included as are many other great San Diego Attractions.
  • While reservations are not required, Birch Aquarium does strongly recommend you secure your admission in advance of your visit. This way you’ll be able to guarantee the exact time of day that works best for you.
  • If you’re planning on combining a trip to Birch Aquarium with other exciting San Diego-area outings and are concerned about timing, be advised that most visitors report spending roughly 90 minutes here.
  • If you’re interested in something a step above the typical Birch Aquarium experience, consider going on a Behind-the-Scenes Seahorse Tour. These tours run twice daily, typically at 10:30am and 1:00pm, and are a unique way to see the aquarium. Reserve your guided tour when you buy your general admission tickets.
  • The Birch Aquarium official website posts a daily schedule of events, and it’s a handy resource to check as you plan your visit.
  • While reservations are not required, Birch Aquarium does strongly recommend you secure your admission in advance of your visit. This way you’ll be able to guarantee the exact time of day that works best for you.
  • If you’re planning on combining a trip to Birch Aquarium with other exciting San Diego-area outings and are concerned about timing, be advised that most visitors report spending roughly 90 minutes here.
  • If you’re interested in something a step above the typical Birch Aquarium experience, consider going on a Behind-the-Scenes Seahorse Tour. These tours run twice daily, typically at 10:30am and 1:00pm, and are a unique way to see the aquarium. Reserve your guided tour when you buy your general admission tickets.
  • The Birch Aquarium official website posts a daily schedule of events, and it’s a handy resource to check as you plan your visit.