U is for Under the Sea at Birch Aquarium

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography UCSD is on a mission to promote ocean science education, research, and conservation through exhibits that provide up close and personal experiences with sea creatures. One of my favorite parts about visiting Birch Aquarium is sitting in front of the Kelp Forest. It is mesmerizing to watch the leopard sharks, eels, and barracuda swim in a 70,000-gallon tank covering an entire wall. It's a peak into life "under the sea."

Other highlights include exhibits of jellyfish in unique colors, shapes and sizes, and an entire room devoted to seahorses. These delicate creatures are amazing to view close up.

The Birch Aquarium is perched on a hill in La Jolla, so make sure to see the outdoor exhibits. Outside there are living tide pools and interactive experiences allowing kids and kids at heart to touch starfish and other marine animals. There is also a breathtaking view of the the Pacific Ocean below.

Have you ever been to the Birch Aquarium? Or have you ever actually gone under the sea scuba diving or snorkeling in the ocean?