behind the scenes tour aquarium

Update browser for a secure Made experience

It looks like you may be using a web browser version that we don't support. Make sure you're using the most recent version of your browser, or try using of these supported browsers, to get the full Made experience: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.

For non-members, advanced tickets are strongly encouraged, as tickets are limited and often sell 

• Update Account

Get Tickets

Get your tickets, dive into your underwater adventure with just one click, ways to save, memberships, discounts, promotions & more, animals up-close, encounters with the animals that call mystic aquarium home, behind the seas tour.

Experience Mystic Aquarium like never before! This exclusive behind-the-seas tour will give you an inside look at how we care for aquatic animals. Our knowledgeable experts will guide you through areas that are normally off-limits to the public, revealing the secrets of our world-class animal care practices. You'll have the opportunity to visit places like our state-of-the-art veterinary hospital* and Milne Center, where we house off-exhibit animals and rehabilitate rescued sea turtles. You'll get a guided tour from an experienced member of our team, learn about our intricate life support systems, and more! End the tour with VIP seats for the California sea lion show. With a maximum of 8 people per group, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience that you'll remember forever!

• Maximum capacity is 8 participants. Each participant must have their own tour ticket.
• Participants must be age 6 or older.
• Children 6 to 12 must be accompanied by a paid adult over the age of 18.
• Duration of the program is approximately 1.75 hours.
• Waiver must be completed before participating (a link will be provided in the confirmation email).
• Guests are encouraged to bring a water bottle.
• This tour takes place both indoors and outdoors; guests should prepare for the current weather as necessary.

This encounter is ADA compliant.

*In the event of a medical procedure happening in the veterinary hospital, guests will visit the Aquarium’s clinical and water quality laboratory.

Peak Season Cost

Peak season is between June 01 - August 31, 2024

Members: 70 Non-members: 75

Off-Peak Cost

Members: 55 Non-members: 60

(Aquarium admission required but not included)

Check Dates & Book Now

Let's Get Started

Are you a member?

If you're not a member

LOG IN TO MAKE A PASS RESERVATION

View account.

Behind the Seas

Explore the secret world behind georgia aquarium.

We’re thrilled to offer you an exclusive peek behind the scenes with our Behind the Seas tours. Prepare to dive deep into the inner workings of our aquatic wonderland and witness the enchantment that brings our exhibits to life. Whether you’re a curious marine enthusiast, an avid learner, or simply eager to explore, our Behind the Seas tours promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of our underwater world.

Book your Behind the Seas tour today and embark on an adventure that promises insight, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the wonders of the sea.

*Please note: Program tickets do not include Georgia Aquarium Admission.

Tour Options

Explore the surface.

Begin your Behind the Seas journey here—our most popular tour option.

Dive Deeper

Try our newest tour option. After you’ve explored the surface, take a deeper dive behind the scenes.

Private Voyage

Enjoy an exclusive, private experience.

Presented By

Shark Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Walk the catwalk above Shark Alley, participate in fish feeding in Blacktip Reef and more.

$50-$65 Per Person

Start Location

Information Desk (Pier 3, Level 1)

Walk the catwalk above Shark Alley , where sharks swim just inches below; check out the food prep kitchen; participate in fish feeding in Blacktip Reef ; and visit the sharks from behind the scenes as you learn about these incredible predators of the deep.

Tour pricing is per person; each guest must have their own tour ticket to participate.

Tour prices are higher on peak days.

Member Price: $40-$52 per person

Please book your tour online and be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour.

Questions? Please call Central Reservations at 410-659-4269 (available from 9 am to 4:30 pm, seven days a week).

• This tour does not allow guests to touch or physically interact with the sharks.
• All members of the group must be at least 8 years old.
• The catwalk is not fully accessible to guests using wheelchairs. Please call our Central Reservations team at 410-576-3833 for more information.

Upcoming Times

• May 15, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 16, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 17, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 8 Spots Left
• May 17, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 8 Spots Left
• May 18, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 3 Spots Left
• May 18, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 2 Spots Left
• May 19, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 6 Spots Left
• May 19, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 20, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 8 Spots Left
• May 21, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 10 Spots Left
• May 22, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 23, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 10 Spots Left
• May 24, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 24, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 25, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 5 Spots Left
• May 25, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 7 Spots Left
• May 26, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 8 Spots Left
• May 26, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 8 Spots Left
• May 27, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 27, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 28, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 10 Spots Left
• May 29, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 30, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 31, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• May 31, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 1, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 1, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 2, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 2, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 3, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 4, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 10 Spots Left
• June 5, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 10 Spots Left
• June 6, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 7, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 7, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 8, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 10 Spots Left
• June 8, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 9, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 9, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 9 Spots Left
• June 10, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 9 Spots Left
• June 11, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 12, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 13, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 4 Spots Left
• June 14, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 9 Spots Left
• June 14, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 15, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 8 Spots Left
• June 15, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 16, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 16, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 17, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 9 Spots Left
• June 18, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 19, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 20, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 21, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 21, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 22, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 22, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 23, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 23, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 24, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 25, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 26, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 27, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 28, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 10 Spots Left
• June 28, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 29, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 29, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 30, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• June 30, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 1, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 1, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 2, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 2, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 3, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 3, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 4, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 4, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 5, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 8 Spots Left
• July 5, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 6, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 6, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 7, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 9 Spots Left
• July 7, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 8, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 9 Spots Left
• July 8, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 9, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 9, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 10, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 10, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 11, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 11, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 12, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 9 Spots Left
• July 12, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 13, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 13, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 14, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 14, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 15, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 7 Spots Left
• July 15, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 16, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 16, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 17, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 17, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 18, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 18, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 19, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 19, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 20, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 20, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 21, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 21, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 22, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 22, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 23, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 9 Spots Left
• July 23, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 24, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 24, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 25, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 25, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 26, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 26, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 27, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 27, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 28, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 28, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 29, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 29, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 30, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 30, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 31, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• July 31, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 1, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 1, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 2, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 2, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 3, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 3, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 4, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 4, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 5, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 5, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 6, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 6, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 7, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 7, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 8, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 8, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 9, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 9, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 10, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 10, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 11, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 11, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 12, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 12, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 13, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 13, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 14, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 14, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 15, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 15, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 16, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 16, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 17, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 17, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 18, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 18, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 19, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 19, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 20, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 20, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 21, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 21, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 22, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 22, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 23, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 23, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 24, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 24, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 25, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 25, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 26, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 26, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 27, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 27, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 28, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 28, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 29, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 29, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $50 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 30, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 30, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 31, 2024 @ 12:00 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left
• August 31, 2024 @ 3:15 pm $65 per Person 12 Spots Left

Before You Go

Everything you need to know before your Shark Behind-the-Scenes Tour!

Before your tour, please review the following important information:

• Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes.
• Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour. Check in at the Information Desk on Level 1 of Pier 3 (across from the 4D Immersion Theater).
• You'll be asked to sign a waiver when you get here; please have each participant of your group print, sign and bring a copy to ensure that your tour starts on time. Participants under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian in order to attend.
• Learn more about discounted parking at our partner garages. Bring your parking ticket to the Aquarium to have it validated before leaving.
• When booking your tour, please notify Central Reservations of any guests with special needs.

Guests must be 8 years or older. All guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Participants under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian in order to attend.

Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable, including if you miss your tour due to late arrival. If the Aquarium cancels your program, you'll have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

To ensure that your tour hasn't been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances such as animal health or inclement weather, please call 410-576-8822 the day of your program for cancellation information.

All aspects of this tour are subject to availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question about your Shark-Behind-the-Scenes Tour? We've probably answered it here!

A paid parent or guardian must accompany all participants under the age of 16. Minors 16 years of age or older may participate with a signed waiver from a parent or guardian. Parents or guardians accompanying children must be at least 18 years old. For example, a 17-year-old may attend a tour with a signed waiver, but their 10-year-old sibling may not accompany them without an adult.

This tour does not allow guests to touch the sharks.

Closed-toe, non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing are recommended.

No. However, this experience is an add-on to a general admission ticket, which grants you admission into the building.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter Sign up to receive updates on animals, news and events.

• Skip to main content

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Behind the Scenes Tour

Updated February 28, 2024 Posted April 8, 2020

Tour Details

About the Tour

Enjoy our new tour route now!

Immerse yourself into the heart of CMA’s mission of rescue, rehab and release and our inspiring animal success stories. Experience areas not accessible with general admission. Get up close with our state-of-the-art Dolphin Complex from our VIP Viewing Area. See what it takes to keep over two million gallons of recycled seawater healthy and flowing. Observe animals undergoing rehabilitation while walking through the open-air critical care facility and check out the animal food prep area. A truly safe and fun journey conducted by a highly trained and entertaining guide!

*Visits to open-air area are weather dependent. Tour route and details subject to change.

Become a Member & Save

Members Receive a 10% Discount!

Ticket Time & Information

• Available every hour from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM daily. Schedules may vary and additional times are available during select dates.
• Minimum age is 7 years old. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Space is limited to 10 guests.
• Book online to select your date of visit and view pricing and availability.

Please Note : Maximum of 10 people per tour. Tour participants must be able to climb stairs and maneuver through narrow hallways. No strollers or wheelchairs permitted on the tour. The tour is 45 minutes long. Admission is required and not included with this tour.

Park Hours 9 AM - 5 PM

BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR

An exclusive, up-close experience.

Step into the shoes of a Maui Ocean Center curatorial staff member to discover what goes on behind the scenes and how our team of ocean experts tends to the marine animals under our care. This 60-minute tour with a dedicated marine naturalist will take you beyond the public exhibits and into an exclusive experience for an up-close view of our coral propagation lab and an opportunity to learn about our unique open water system. Dive into the science of raising aquaculture animals, marine health and nutrition, and more! Whether you’re curious about what it takes to operate our aquarium or are simply a marine enthusiast looking for a deeper understanding of what Hawaiʻi’s marine life needs to survive and thrive, we’re sure you’ll find this tour fascinating. Be sure to come prepared with all of your questions!

• A 60-minute exclusive Behind The Scenes tour led by a dedicated Marine Naturalist
• An exclusive Maui Ocean Center fish identification card

TOUR DATES & TIMES

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11:30 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

RECOMMENDED AGE

We recommend this tour for participants 6+ years of age; however, all ages are welcome! Closed walking shoes are recommended.

ACCESSIBILITY

We believe marine education should be accessible for all. If you have any requests regarding disability accommodations, please contact us at 808-270-7000.

• Tour is ADA compliant and stroller accessible
• Audio devices available
• Light activity walking tour with varying floor types; some uneven surfaces
• Potential windy areas
• Not recommended for visitors who are sensitive to higher noise levels or wear pacemakers
• Visitors in manual wheelchairs should be accompanied by their own attendants

GROUP TOURS

Group tour inquiries may contact  [email protected]

SPECIAL NOTE

At Maui Ocean Center, we prioritize the care and preservation of Hawai‘i’s natural and cultural resources. Sustainable principles guide every facet of our aquarium’s operation, from the propagation of rare native species to the reduction of single-use plastics, water usage, and carbon emissions .

We proudly maintain our certification with the  Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawai‘i .

RESERVATIONS

Share with friends, stay connected to our ocean.

Immerse Yourself in our SEA-News featuring Hawaiʻi’s marine life, inspirational conservation, and glimpses behind-the-scenes.

• 192 Mā ʻ alaea Road, Wailuku, Hawaiʻi 96793
• (808) 270-7000
• [email protected]

PLAN A VISIT

• School Groups
• Travel Partners

animals & exhibits

• Hawaiʻi's marine life
• Humpbacks of Hawaiʻi
• Live Cam + Gallery

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

• Aquari-OM Yoga Classes
• Coral Spawning
• Ocean Aloha
• Ocean Education Classroom
• Shark Dive Maui

Conservation & Community

• become a member
• giving back opportunities
• our projects
• international ocean film festival
• stormwater maui

Plan Your Visit

Advanced reservations required.

BUY TICKETS

Ticket Prices

Become a Member 

Explore discounts and special offers

Hours and Daily Schedule

Open daily 9 am to 5 pm January-February and October-December

Open daily 9 am to 7 pm March 1-Labor Day 

Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's days.

Last entry is one hour prior to closing.

View Daily Schedule

Aquarium Map

DIRECTIONS AND PARKING

2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037

Parking: 

• Free 3-hour parking. 
• Full-day parking permits are available at Guest Services for a small fee.
• Large vehicle parking available along La Jolla Shores Drive, west of Birch Aquarium.  

MTS Public Transit Trip Planner

Group Tickets and Tours

Discounts for groups of 10 or more are automatically applied when you add 10+ tickets to your shopping cart.

More about group sales savings

Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Venture behind the scenes to get up close to some of our most popular animals. Tours include aquarium admission, so be sure to purchase your tour instead of making a reservation. 

Seahorse Tour

Get a glimpse of seahorse babies and learn about Birch Aquarium's renowned breeding program and what it takes to care for these unusual fish. Discover how we can all help protect these unique animals and their homes on this immersive behind-the-scenes tour!

Accessibility

Birch aquarium strives to be fully accessible to all of our guests ..

Parking   Birch Aquarium has designated accessible parking spaces available as well as the option of curbside pickup and drop-off in the traffic circle near the front entrance.

Wheelchairs   All of Birch Aquarium is wheelchair accessible. While most of the aquarium is on one level, there are ramps on Tide Pool Plaza and Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins . Wheelchairs are available to borrow from Guest Services on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Service Animals    Trained service animals are permitted inside the aquarium.

Please Note   If you require special assistance or adaptive services please notify Guest Services as soon as possible so we can arrange for the services to be in place. Please call (858) 534-3474 or email [email protected] .     

Shopping AND Dining

The gift shop.

The Birch Aquarium Gift Shop is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until the aquarium closes.

Learn about the gift shop Shop the online collection

Splash! Café by The French Gourmet

Splash! Café is open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Admission is not required in order to eat at the café.

Members receive a discount!

Order Ahead Download the menu (PDF)

Subscribe to Birch Aquarium at Scripps Emails

Subscribe to teacher elist emails.

It seems JavaScript is either disabled or not supported by your browser. To view this site, enable JavaScript by changing your browser options and try again.

Jump to main content

Behind-the-Scenes Aquarium Tour

Book your Behind-the-Scenes Aquarium Tour today!

Go behind the scenes to learn about the history of Steinhart Aquarium and how biologists care for the 38,000 animals—butterflies, fish, penguins, and even an albino alligator—that live in the building. Visit the food prep kitchen, see the complex water filtration system, and much more on an hour-long exclusive aquarium tour.

Eligibility

Guests must be aged 8 or older to participate, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Each tour is limited to 14 guests.

$24.95 per person $19.95 per Academy member Discounts available for groups of 10+

• Group tickets

What's Included

Benefits include express entry into the Rainforest, plus reserved Planetarium pass.

Have questions about visiting the Academy? Please let us know how we can help.

(415) 379-8000 [email protected]

Other Attractions At Arizona Boardwalk

Experience the Shark Tour

Tour Fee: $9.95 | General Admission Is Required. | Minimum Age 6

Q: How long is the tour? A: Each tour is approximately 30 minutes long.

Q: How many people are on a tour? A: Tours are limited to 12 participants.

Q: How old do you have to be to participate? A: Children must be 6 years or older to participate. This tour includes steps and catwalks. Strollers are not permitted.

Q: What kind of shoes should I wear? A: This tour requires flat, closed-toe shoes to participate. Some areas of the tour require you to clean the bottom of your shoes before entering the next room. 

Q: What about jewelry? A: Hanging jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are not permitted as they can be a safety hazard to the animals. 

• 10% discount for members.

Each session is limited to 12 participants. Buy online to reserve your spot!

Buy Tickets

Passholders & Members

*General admission not included in Behind The Scenes Tour price.

Be the first to hear about upcoming events, special offers, behind the scenes sneak peeks and more from OdySea Aquarium and our OdySea in the Desert partners.

Behind the Scenes Guided Tours

Look behind the scenes of the two oceans aquarium.

Ever wondered about the inner workings of the Two Oceans Aquarium? Perhaps you have questions about how our life support systems work, or how and what the animals in our care are fed. Join a guided Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Aquarium and find out!

What is a Behind the Scenes Guided Tour about?

Join a member of our Curatorial team for an opportunity to go behind the scenes and wind your way through areas of the Aquarium where very few members of the public ever go, and see what goes on during the daily running of the Two Oceans Aquarium. Step behind the “staff-only” access doors and into the areas where water pumps are humming, food for the animals is being prepared, divers kit up and much more.

Meet some of our staff as they care for their charges; feeding, cleaning and monitoring are all in a day's work for them. See the animals and exhibits from a completely different point of view, all while our experts share fascinating information about how we make the Aquarium magic happen.

Tour details

Guided tours take place at 10h00 and 13h00 daily and last up to 75 minutes (please arrive 15 minutes early to complete an indemnity form)

Your Behind-the-Scenes Tour booking includes general access to public areas of the Aquarium for the day

A maximum of 8 persons can join a tour

Active annual members receive a 25% discount on all experiences

The Behind-the-Scenes tour is not suitable for children under the age of 8

Tours must be booked at least 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.

Terms and conditions apply (see below)

Did you know?

It takes more than 100 staff and volunteers to keep the Aquarium running daily.

All the water in the Aquarium comes from the ocean and is cleaned by a combination of mechanical and natural filters.

Biosecurity is key! This means that all new organisms coming into the Aquarium go through a strict quarantine procedure.

Frequently asked questions

• Book your Behind-the-Scenes Tour online here.

Alternatively, email [email protected] or call us at +27 (0)21 418 3823 to book your Behind-the-Scenes Tour or book in person at our Visitor Centre.

Remember - Aquarium entry is included for all participants in a Behind-the-Scenes Tour. Anyone accompanying you, but not participating in the tour, will need to book an Aquarium day ticket to enter.

Please arrive on time.

Report to the Visitor Centre when you arrive (on your right, as you enter the Aquarium)

You will need to undergo a health screening when entering the Aquarium. Please see the next section for details.

Children must be 8 years and older in order to participate in this experience.

Please wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes (no high heels).

Payment is required at least 24 hours prior to secure your booking.

Report to the Visitor Centre at 09:45 for the 10:00 tour or 12:45 for the 13:00 tour to complete your indemnity forms.

Failure to arrive for your Tour will result in cancellation and you will be liable for the full fee.

Should you cancel your Tour 48 hours prior to the time, 90% of the fee will be refunded. Please be advised that the refund process may take 5 to 10 working days.

Should you cancel your Tour on the day, you will forfeit the entire fee. No refund will be given, unless it’s due to medical reasons and you can provide proof, e.g. a medical certificate.

Should you wish to postpone your Tour for another day, please do so at least 24 hours in advance. If you postpone on the day of the booking, you will be charged a penalty fee of 50% of the experience fee. If the reason for the postponement is medical and happened on the day of the booking, there will be no penalty fee, provided you have proof.

Popular Searches

Behind The Scenes Tour

Explore behind the scenes at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Our vip experience.

Go beyond the surface with a dedicated expert on our new Behind the Scenes Tour, for just $12pp extra!

Step into areas not usually open to the public and discover the inner workings of our aquarium. Here you'll learn how we create and maintain our ocean environments for the creatures in our care, find out how we prepare the food they like to eat and be one of the first to meet our newest arrivals! You'll even get hands on, including prepping the next meal for our resident Dugong, Pig .

Learn all about the SEA LIFE Trust and our mission to Breed, Rescue and Protect by taking a closer look at two of our local conservation projects - including our White's Seahorse breeding program and Cauliflower Soft Corals project. 

Our 30-minute Behind the Scenes Tour is the perfect way to upgrade your visit to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.

Behind the Scenes Tour + General Admission

• Access working areas usually closed to the public
• Tours run 7 days a week, every hour for 30 minutes.
• This combined ticket includes admission to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and a Behind the Scenes Tour

Behind the Scenes Tour - Merlin Annual Pass Discount

• 20% off for Merlin Annual Passholders
• Participate in hands on experience (Ages 5+)
• Please ensure you pre-book an Admission timeslot for entry to the Aquarium with your Merlin Annual Pass at least 30mins before your Behind the Scenes Tour..

Admission + Behind the Scenes Gift Voucher

• Participate in hands on experience (ages 5+)

What will you experience?

Life Support

See how we create & maintain the various water environments.

Babies & Breeding

See how we breed & grow new animals for our SLSA & beyond.

Feeding & Meal Preparation

Learn about the huge amount and variety of food we feed our creatures.

Animal Care

Discover more about our rescue initiatives and how we care for our local marine life.

Handling & Cleaning

Get hands on with the team and see how hard it is to maintain the perfect habitats for the animals.

SEA LIFE Trust

Find out about protecting the world's oceans including what we do to help.

Adopt a juvenile White's seahorse!

2023 is the fourth year of our seahorse breed and release program, we'll be releasing over 700 seahorse fry back into Australian waters! By e-adopting one of our seahorses for yourself or a friend, you will be making a real conservation difference; helping to secure the future of our local marine creatures and support the continuation of the program into future years.

What's included?

• Access the working areas which are usually closed to the public
• Learn all about our breeding, research and conservation programmes
• See how the fish food is prepared
• Ask all of your burning marine life questions
• Tour lasts approximately 30 minutes 
• This tour is wheelchair friendly, however, please note that service animals are not allowed into back of house spaces.

Terms and Conditions

• There are limited spaces available, so booking in advance is essential
• Participants must arrive at the entry at the time on their ticket. Your experience commences 30 minutes after your entry time slot.  i.e., if you book for 10:00am, your experience will depart the meeting point on Dugong Island at 10:30am.  Late arrival will result in non-admittance to the experience.
• Maximum 10 people per timeslot
• This tour is for ages 3+
• Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian with them
• We advise guests to wear comfortable footwear
• Must have a ticket to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium for the same day as tour

How to Book?

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium + Behind The Scenes Tour Tickets

• Book together for guaranteed entry. All you need to do today is select your Behind the Scenes tour date and time.
• Your visit to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium needs to be valid for the same day.
• Participants must arrive at the entry on time for your experience. Please note, latecomers may not be admitted to the experience.
• Participants must arrive at the entry at the time on their ticket. Your experience commences 30 minutes after your entry time slot.  i.e., if you book for 10:00am, your experience will depart the meeting point on Dugong Island at 10:30am. Late arrival will result in non-admittance to the experience.

Merlin Annual Pass Holders

• Are you a Merlin Annual Pass holder ? Great, all you need to do is add on the Behind The Scenes ticket & select a time slot for the day you wish to come. 

Already purchased a SEA LIFE ticket?

Upgrade your day with a Behind the Scenes Tour!

• Upgrade your admission ticket with a Behind the Scenes Tour for just $12pp!
• This is an upgrade ticket only and does NOT include admission to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium - you must have an admission ticket to experience this tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour accessibility friendly.

Yes, the tour is accessibility friendly. For all accessibility information please see here.  

Is there an age limit?

Yes this tour is for ages 3+. Everyone 16 and under must have an adult with them when partaking in this experience. 

Is this available as a gift voucher?

Yep! Gift vouchers can be purchased from one of the ticket boxes above!

Can I purchase Behind The Scenes on the day?

Yes, you can purchase online on the day. There are only 10 spots per tour, so we recommend booking early to not miss out.

Can I get a discount on this experience with my Merlin Annual pass?

Yes, you can! Merlin Annual Pass holders receive a 20% discount off the full price of the Behind-The-Scenes ticket – that’s just $8 per passholder.

Can I take a camera with me on this tour?

Yes, feel free to take a camera and document your tour. Please remember that no flash photography is allowed throughout the aquarium including our back of house areas where this tour takes places.

Who do I contact if I need anything else?

Please email [email protected]

• Membership Become a Member Membership Information
• Give Give Today Why Give? How to Give Recognition

Aquarium Events

Sharks behind the scenes.

Mini Calendar

1 Central Wharf Boston, MA 02110

HOURS OF OPERATION

Mon.–Fri.: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Weekends: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Get Up Close to an Axolotl at the Aquarium

Axolotls are just one of the animals you can see at the Aquarium during our rotating live animal encounters. Read on to learn more about these unique amphibians.

By New England Aquarium on Monday, May 13, 2024

“Have you ever seen an axolotl?” Colin McIntire asked a crowd gathered around the tank in the Aquarium’s Blue Planet Action Center.

As an educator on our Conservation Learning team, Colin helps Aquarium guests discover and learn about the many different animals in our care. On this day, he gave visitors an up-close look at our three axolotls—an experience that’s recently returned after a pandemic hiatus.

Axolotls are fully aquatic salamanders and are endangered in the wild. Their sole habitat is in the waters and wetlands of Lake Xochimilco in Mexico City, Mexico. Axolotls’ unique appearance is due to a phenomenon called neoteny; they maintain juvenile characteristics, such as their frilly external gills, throughout their lives. When portrayed in popular culture or displayed as pets, they’re bright pink to white—eye-catching colors for cartoons and photos, but not as helpful for avoiding predators.

Of our three axolotls, only one, our male “Chi,” is pink, with the exception of a small patch right above his eye. This coloration is caused by a genetic mutation known as leucism. In the wild, axolotls look more like “MC” and “Fantasma,” our two females that are primarily mottled brown in color.

“Some guests are very familiar with axolotls, and some only know them from social media or video games, and some have not heard of them at all,” said Kate Tillotson, a senior educator here at the Aquarium. “But overall, I’d say most people seem excited to see them when we have them out.”

That excitement was apparent. As visitors spotted axolotls in their tank, “wow” was often their first reaction. Our three axolotls live behind the scenes at the Aquarium, so their recent return to the floor is exciting for both guests and our staff. They’re a unique animal that many people don’t have the chance to experience in person.

While axolotls and their natural habitat may seem remote to those here in New England, there are important connections to be made. “The issues faced by axolotls, such as habitat loss and degradation, closely resemble those faced by many amphibians here and in ecosystems globally,” Kate said.

Locally, amphibians rely on vernal pools—temporary bodies of water that occur seasonally in New England forests—for raising tadpoles free from threats by larger predators. But these areas are under threat from human development, just like the axolotls’ native Lake Xochimilco.

So, even though axolotls in the wild live nearly 3,000 miles from the Aquarium, learning about them—and conservation efforts to protect them—can help amphibians in our own backyard, too. “There are many things we can do,” Kate said, “such as working to protect land through land trusts and parks, voting with the environment in mind, and spreading the word to get people on board with conservation efforts in our local communities.”

Related Stories

Four Penguin Chicks Hatch at the Aquarium

Meet the newest members of our African penguin colony.

Fun Facts About Nurse Sharks

Learn more about nurse sharks from Aquarists Lindsay Phenix and Mike O'Neill.

For Peeko the African Penguin, Acupuncture is Routine Care

Learn how our vet team works to incorporate acupuncture into specialized treatment plans for Peeko and other animals

Visit the Aquarium and Help Protect the Blue Planet

Every ticket purchase directly supports our mission to ensure a vital and vibrant ocean for all.

Aquarium welcomes 5 Little Blue Penguins to its habitat

LA JOLLA, Calif. (Gray News) - An aquarium welcomed five Little Blue Penguin chicks, marking a significant achievement in the aquarium’s dedication to penguin care and conversation efforts, the aquarium said in a press release .

“It’s so exciting to introduce these juveniles to the colony as they are curious and adventurous and a delight to watch explore their new home through diving and socializing,” said Kayla Strate, Assistant Curator of Birds at Birch Aquarium. “This is a huge milestone for Birch Aquarium as it’s our first successful contribution to an Association of Zoos and Aquariums avian breeding program.”

The first chick debuted on New Year’s Day in the aquarium’s Penguin Care and Conservation Center. The two middle chicks hatched on Jan. 23 and Jan. 26 and the two youngest chicks hatched on Feb. 18 and Feb. 20. Four of the chicks are male, while the aquarium is still awaiting confirmation of the sex of the youngest one.

These are the first chicks hatched since Little Blue Penguins came to the aquarium in 2022.

“This has been our goal since before our penguin exhibit was even imagined! It truly took expert-level skills to successfully raise our little penguins by hand and I am so proud of my team for rising to the challenge,” Strate said.

During their first few months, the chicks are behind the scenes acquiring important life skills including how to eat, socialize and swim. After about three months, each chick joins the rest of the colony.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Bar raises minimum age to 30 on Friday and Saturday nights: ‘No exceptions’

Spiegel accuses former mayors of harassment in demand letter

Rock Island County Coroner identifies homicide victim

Iowa Women’s Basketball Head Coach Lisa Bluder retiring

Cedar Point says new Top Thrill 2 coaster is closed indefinitely just days after opening

Latest news.

Justice Department says Boeing violated deal that avoided prosecution after 737 Max crashes

Soldier, 23, dies in non-combat training accident at US Army post

Cohen gives insider details at trial as Trump’s defense attorney accuses him of seeking vengeance

Judge rejects Hunter Biden’s bid to delay his federal gun case

Biden administration is moving ahead on $1 billion arms package for Israel, AP sources say