Scripps Pier Opens Its Gates for Science and Sunsets

Birch Aquarium’s Sunset Scripps Pier Walks are back, and honestly, this new guest experience might be one of the coolest ways to see La Jolla’s most iconic landmark.

They’re opening up the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier—which is normally off-limits to the public—for 90-minute guided adventures that combine hands-on science with those postcard-perfect sunset views.

Behind the Scenes of an Icon

Most of us have walked past the pier or admired it from the beach, but very few people actually get to see how it operates.

Matthew Arrollado, Public Programs Coordinator, put it perfectly: “Not only will you get a chance to see how the pier operates, but also a chance to see how the pier supports so many research projects that focus on the sea, land and sky.”

You’re walking the full length of the pier while learning about everything from plankton scooping to squid dissection to cutting-edge shark research. It’s the kind of access that makes you feel like you’re getting an insider look at serious ocean science instead of just another tourist activity.

Climate Science Gets Real

This year they’re highlighting the Scripps CO₂ Program, which does crucial research right from the pier on atmospheric carbon dioxide and what that means for our oceans locally and globally.

It’s one thing to read about climate change, but seeing the actual equipment and methods scientists use to track these changes adds weight to the whole conversation.

The timing with sunset creates this interesting contrast—you’re learning about some pretty heavy environmental science while watching one of San Diego’s most beautiful natural displays. It puts the research in perspective when you’re standing on the pier watching the sky change colors over the Pacific.

What to Expect

This is ages 9 and up, which makes sense since you’re walking the entire length of the pier and engaging with actual scientific concepts.

They recommend dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes, which is solid advice for any sunset activity on the coast. Tours meet right at the pier entrance—no transportation included, so plan accordingly.

The 90-minute format gives them time to cover the science without rushing, but it’s not so long that younger participants lose interest. Scooping plankton and dissecting squid are hands-on activities that make the research feel tangible rather than abstract.

Pricing That Makes Sense

At $30 for aquarium members, $35 for the bundle with aquarium admission, or $40 standalone, it’s priced like the special access experience it actually is. The bundle deal makes the most sense if you’re planning to visit the aquarium anyway, and honestly, combining both gives you a full day of ocean science education.

Advanced registration is required because these typically sell out, which tells you something about how special this experience actually is. When locals and visitors are consistently booking up a science-focused pier walk, you know it’s delivering something unique.

See you there!

Birch Aquarium’s new guest experience proves that sometimes the best way to appreciate an iconic view is by understanding the science happening beneath it.

📆 Beginning September 20 | Tour times vary with sunset
🎟️ Advanced registration required | Click here
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!