Breaking out of your city shell to catch a real-life fishtail becomes a late-night treat this spring at Birch Aquarium. Kicking off in March, the aquarium has decided to keep its doors open until 7 p.m., letting nature buffs soak in more wonders—from the local sea life to the picturesque sunsets. Scripps Institution of Oceanography's elevated position offers a prime spot for these views at Blue Beach, where you can also snap a photo or two against the mural backdrop of La Jolla Shores' bathymetry.
It's not just sunsets and selfies getting attention after dark. Birch Aquarium is diving right in to introduce visitors to the world's smallest penguins, the Little Blues. Described as "charismatic little birds" by the Birch Aquarium team, these penguins are warm-climate lovers from Down Under that gracefully show off their swimming chops in their special exhibit. According to the aquarium, this extended evening access provides a unique opportunity to "get up close and personal" with the pint-sized swimmers.
Artsy types can expect to be dazzled by 'Hold Fast,' an immersive art installation that catapults you into a Giant Kelp forest without the need to even slightly wet a toe. Part climate discourse, part sensory experience, this exhibit is a collaboration of artists and scientists, aiming to provoke reflection on our climate impact and perhaps stir guests to consider how their own joys could drive climate action.
Celebrating a particularly weedy birthday, the aquarium's weedy seadragon brood will be blowing out its first candle this spring. Birch Aquarium proudly houses one of the largest seadragon habitats on the planet and invites visitors to spot these and their seahorse kin flourishing in their aquatic home—a perfect moment captured from the realm of sea mythology turned real.
Let's turn to Thursday nights when Birch Aquarium promises to light up the seas—or at least the perception of them. 'Oceans at Night' flips the switch on the ocean's nocturnal side, offering live music, DJs, cocktails, and educational fun with a 21+ crowd. It's an opportunity not only to unwind but also to uncover which marine creatures "glow and which just go with the flow," as detailed by the aquarium. So if you're up to explore the deep blue sea after work hours, Birch should be your go-to spot this spring for a blend of education and after-hours revelry.
For more information about Birch Aquarium's extended hours and featured activities, visit their official website.
