For the first time ever, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego is offering extended hours this summer. From July 1-August 31, 2021, the aquarium, which has traditionally closed at 5PM, will be open from 9AM to 7PM daily, with the last entry at 6PM.
Extended hours on all exhibits and hands-on activities
“Summer is here and our guests are excited to get out and experience a bit of normalcy,’ said Harry Helling, Executive Director of Birch Aquarium. ‘Our new extended hours in July and August will help San Diegans celebrate the long, warm days of summer.”
During extended hours, all exhibits and hands-on activities — including the newest touch pool exhibit where guests can touch juvenile sharks — will remain open and guests will also be able to explore a new 600 cylindrical Moon Jelly experience in the Hall of Fishes.
Moon Jellies!
“Moon Jellies are found around the world from the warm waters of the tropics to the cold waters of the northern and southern oceans. These highly resilient and ancient creatures are made of 95% seawater! Some jellies pack a punch with potent stings, and adapt quickly to warming oceans. This new exhibit is a great opportunity for guests to get up close and personal with jellies, sting free,” said Jennifer Nero Moffatt, Senior Director of Animal Care and Husbandry.
Safety remains a priority
Though health and safety regulations are beginning to loosen across the county, guest and staff safety remain a priority at Birch Aquarium. The aquarium continues to operate at a limited capacity, and to require advanced reservations, in order to allow for social distancing.
The aquarium still requires all staff and guests ages 2 and above wear masks both indoors and outdoors. More information, including the latest safety protocols and other important details for guests planning their next visit, can be found on the Know Before You Visit page.
Advanced reservations for a specific time and date are required to visit Birch Aquarium, even for members. General admission tickets are $19.50 for adults, $15 for children. Reservations are available online only. Annual Memberships are also available here. For more information, visit here.
About Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration center for Scripps Oceanography. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Birch Aquarium features the groundbreaking work of Scripps Oceanography and UC San Diego scientists as well as conservation breeding programs, and interactive exhibits. Birch Aquarium’s mission is to connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet, which the aquarium achieves by engaging, hands-on learning opportunities for nearly 500,000 guests as well as more than 50,000 pre-K-12 students each year. Birch Aquarium also offers a variety of virtual events and activities.
See you there…and stay healthy, San Diego!
