Get an up close view of captivating Moon Jellies, native Sharks, Bat Rays, Sea Turtles and adorable River Otters at Aquarium of the Bay – the only aquarium and nature center devoted exclusively to showcasing the marine life of San Francisco Bay. See if you can find Nemo and Dory. Meet Tahoe, the Aquarium’s the newest addition to their River Otter family. This fun and educational aquarium is conveniently located at Pier 39, near historic Fisherman’s Wharf.
Here are 5 top reasons to visit Aquarium of the Bay:
1. Get an Up-Close View of Sharks & Rays
Watch in awe as you stroll through 300 feet of crystal clear tunnels, surrounded by schools of Anchovies, Leopard Sharks, Skates, Sturgeon, Rays, giant Sea Bass and thousands of sea creatures indigenous to San Francisco Bay and the nearby Pacific. We’ve never been so close to Sevengill Sharks (SF Bay’s largest predators) and giant Stingrays – you can literally reach out and almost touch them as they glide overhead! Watch video below to see giant Stingray swim over us.
2. Jellies Habitat – Jellyfish
The mesmerizing Jellies Habitat exhibit is one of our favorite areas of the Aquarium – it’s filled with colorful Pacific Sea Nettles (pictured above) and magical translucent Moon Jellies (pictured top of page). They’re hypnotic – we could have watched them for hours!
3. River Otter Gallery
The River Otter Gallery is another highlight you won’t want to miss. It’s home to otters Tahoe, Shasta, Baxter and Ryer. Tahoe is the most energetic of the River Otters. Do you want to know the secret to recognizing him? He’s the one swimming in the water chasing his tail!
4. Interactive Touch Pools – Touch Bat Rays
The Aquarium has two touch pools where visitors can touch marine animals. Reach out to the friendly Juvenile Bat Rays as they playfully swim along the perimeter of the touch pool – the tips of their wings are velvety soft to the touch. Your kids are gonna love it! Be sure to check out the beautiful Starfish in the adjacent touch pool.
5. Behind-the-Scenes Tours – and Feed-the-Sharks Tours
Upgrade your general admission ticket and take a 45-minute “Behind-the-Scenes” Tour to get a sneak peek on what goes on behind the scenes at the Aquarium. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a 75-minute Feed-the-Sharks Tour where you can experience feeding the Sharks, Rays and other fish.
The Aquarium’s naturalists and guides are friendly and knowledgeable, so don’t be shy about asking any questions.
Special daily programs at the Aquarium include Shark Talks and Feedings, Jelly Talk, Up-Close Animal Encounter: California Kingsnake, Otter Talk, Bat Ray Feeding, Tunnel Feeding… and more!
Buy Your Tickets
Aquarium of the Bay General Admission Ticket
Click here to buy your Aquarium of the Bay General Admission Ticket before it sells out. Be prepared for crowds at this popular year-round San Francisco attraction, especially during the peak summer season.
