$80 Members | $95 General Public
Venture behind the scenes for a one-hour private tour and explore the fascinating world of seahorses. Get a glimpse of seahorse babies, learn about Birch Aquarium's renowned breeding program, and understand what it takes to care for these unusual fish on this immersive behind-the-scenes tour!
Aquarium admission included. Tickets must be purchased at least 1 hour prior to start time. Purchase tickets by phone at 858.534.3474 or onsite in the Guest Services Office. Guests must be at least 8 years of age to participate. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- Tour Capacity
We can accommodate up to 6 guests. Each guest must have a ticket for the tour.
- Age Restriction
Guests must be at least 8 years of age to participate. Children ages 8-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Check-In location
- Present tour ticket at our ticket booth when you first arrive at the aquarium.
- Meet out on the South Plaza (by Blue Beach) 10 minutes before the scheduled tour — look for a large floor sign indicating the tour meeting place.
- Closed-Toed Shoe Requirement
Guests must wear closed-toed shoes for this encounter. For your safety, sandals and heels are not allowed to be worn behind the scenes.
- Photography Policy
Only during the first half of the tour; once the tour goes behind-the-scenes, photography and video recording is not allowed. No exceptions.
- Bag Policy
Large bags and backpacks are not permitted on the tour. They may be left in the Guest Services Office during the tour.
- Reschedule/Refund
Refunds are not available, however, if canceled 24 hours before the start of the tour and space permits, it may be possible to reschedule for a future date.
- ADA Accessibility
Most (but not all) behind-the-scenes areas are ADA accessible. In some areas a wheelchair can access but will not be able to turn around and will need to back out to exit the space. Some tours may include small ladders and/or stairs with a few steps which are not ADA accessible. Be prepared for dim lighting and potentially wet floors.
- Service Animals
Yes, but Birch Aquarium reserves the right to exclude service animals from these areas if they pose a direct threat to our animal population. Please note: access to behind-the-scenes areas requires stepping on foot bath pads which contain sanitizing chemicals that pose a hazard if ingested and should be rinsed off if skin contact occurs.
For other accommodation requests please contact Guest Services at aquariuminfo@ucsd.edu or 858.534.FISH (3474)