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Shark Snorkels Make a Splashy Return to Birch Aquarium

Shark Snorkels
Birch Aquarium
Shark Snorkels
Saturday, August 1, 2026 from 8 AM to 10 AM
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Tickets for Shark Snorkels go on sale August 1. Intermediate swimming ability is required and previous snorkeling experience is recommended. Participants must supply their own gear including masks, fins and snorkels.
Ages 10+ (minors must be accompanied by a paid adult). Shark Snorkels are $35 for aquarium members and $40 for the general public.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego is thrilled to announce the return of popular Shark Snorkels this September! Join Birch Aquarium Educators for a guided snorkeling experience to get an up-close look at local sharks and rays along with other fascinating species found in our local waters. Plus learn responsible snorkeling skills as you explore the shallow waterways around La Jolla.

Shark Snorkels
Birch Aquarium
Shark Snorkels

During this 2-hour experience, which has not been offered by the aquarium since 2019, guests will learn about Leopard Sharks, one of the most common sharks along the coast of California and vital members of the ocean ecosystem. These sharks are known for their distinctive saddle pattern along their back and for aggregating in large numbers — each summer, hundreds of pregnant females migrate to the shallow waters of San Diego to incubate in the warmer temperatures. During Shark Snorkels, guests will discover more about the role these sharks play in their environment and the conservation work being done to protect them, all while exploring their local habitat.

Shark Snorkels
Birch Aquarium
Shark Snorkels

“Although the ocean is in our backyard, it may seem daunting to take the first steps beyond the waves,” said Matthew Arrollado, Public Programs Coordinator. “This program is an amazing opportunity to learn about and see some of La Jolla’s unique wildlife with an expert guide. Shark education and conservation are also critical for ocean health, so being able to share information about our local critters, including the docile Leopard Sharks, is such a privilege.”

Tickets for Shark Snorkels go on sale August 1. Intermediate swimming ability is required and previous snorkeling experience is recommended. Participants must supply their own gear including masks, fins and snorkels.

Ages 10+ (minors must be accompanied by a paid adult).

Shark Snorkels are $35 for aquarium members and $40 for the general public.

Shark Snorkels
Birch Aquarium at Scripps | Photo: Jordann Tomasek
Shark Snorkels

Birch Aquarium at Scripps on Facebook / Instagram / TikTok

Event Supported By

Birch Aquarium at Scripps
(858) 534-3474
aquariuminfo@ucsd.edu

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, California 92037
858-534-3474
aquariuminfo@ucsd.edu

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration center for the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the aquarium features more than 60 habitats of fishes and invertebrates from the cold waters of the Pacific Northwest to the tropical waters of Mexico and beyond. An interactive museum showcases research discoveries by Scripps scientists on climate, earth and ocean science. The mission of Birch Aquarium is to provide ocean science education, to interpret Scripps research and to promote ocean conservation. Birch Aquarium provides ocean science education through creative exhibits, programs and activities designed to help people use critical thinking, and to make science relevant to their daily lives. Birch Aquarium interprets Scripps Institution of Oceanography research, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of the science used to study Earth, and inspiring public support of scientific endeavors. Birch Aquarium promotes conservation through education and research, believing that with increased understanding of the ocean, people will respect and protect the marine environment. Admission Rates - Adult: $18.50 - Child (3 - 17): $14.00 - Senior (60+): $15.50 - Students or UCSD Staff with ID: $15 - Ages 2 and under: Free - Active duty, reserve, veteran/retired US military ID holders receive $2 off each ticket.

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Dates and times of events are subject to change without notice. Always check the event organizer's website for the most updated schedule before attending.