Explore Local Tide Pools With Birch Aquarium

Shorter days and lower tides mean Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego is kicking off Tidepooling Adventure season. Winter and early spring are the best times for tidepooling in Southern California as minus tides are lower and expose the hardy creatures that call the intersection of land and sea home.

On Tidepooling Adventures, Birch Aquarium naturalists show guests how to tread lightly and discover the unusual and captivating world of local tide pools. Though often mistaken as lifeless, tide pools are home to unique and specialized creatures.

Tidepooling locations are at Dike Rock, north of Scripps Pier in La Jolla, and False Point in Bird Rock. At all locations, guests will look for crabs, seahares, abalone, and even tiny colorful nudibranch sea slugs.

Naturalists will teach guests what to look for when it comes to searching for octopus dens, how to safely navigate slippery rocks, and help train your eye to find even the most elusive creatures. Learn why most tide pools in San Diego are protected and find out why there are fewer sea stars in local tide pools these days.

Tidepooling Adventure dates and times vary based on tides. Please check here for details.

See you there!