Stephen Birch Aquarium

Location: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, San Diego CA (map)
Phone: (858) 534-FISH (3474); More info: Website

Aquarium Exhibits

Stephen Birch Aquarium features giant aquariums, teaming with sharks, exotic fish, seahorses, actual coral reefs, 60 habitats showcasing Pacific marine life, and more. Birch aquarium is owned and operated by Scripps Institute of Oceanography, which has been running the facility for the public for over a century. Originally, the aquarium was smaller and located at the institute. A new facility was built on a hill nearby overlooking the ocean to house the aquarium. The buildings are beautiful and the large patio deck has stunning views of the ocean and La Jolla.

While visiting Stephen Birch Aquarium, you have a choice of either walking through the aquarium exhibits yourself, or going with a guided tour that stops at each exhibit.

The exhibits include hands-on displays and multimedia of discoveries made by Scripps Institute scientists and explorers.

Also at Birch is a nursery with miniature fishes bred and raised there as an alternative to going out into the wild to collect the marine life.

Birch Aquarium Splash! Cafe

Enjoy sandwiches, hot dogs, snacks, coffee, and more. Splash! Café is located at the entrance to the aquarium. Splash! Cafe offers an array of gourmet delights next to the life-sized gray whale mother and calf fountain. Relax during a visit and enjoy hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, snacks, and more in an outdoor atmosphere with plenty of seating and umbrellas for shade as

Bookshop

Open 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily -
Stephen Birch Aquarium's book and gift shop carries a wide selection of informative field guides, books about the ocean and near shore environments, and something for everyone. Browse through a unique selection of marine-themed toys, clothing, jewelry, fine art, and much more.

The facility is accessible by wheelchair, and wheelchairs are available for visitors use.