Living Coast Discovery Center - Chula Vista, California

Adriana

We had such a great experience at the Living Coast Discovery Center! From the moment we arrived, everything was easy and welcoming. Parking was simple, with clear signs pointing us where to go, and the free shuttle was just steps away from the lot.

One highlight of our visit was watching the sea turtle feeding—it was both fascinating and educational! Inside the center, we loved seeing all the smaller animals, like snakes, lizards, jellyfish, and fish. Outside, the open tank area with stingrays and sharks was really cool to explore.

Our favorite part, though, was the bird exhibits. Seeing a bald eagle up close was incredible (something we hadn’t even seen at the zoo!), and the staff member there was super friendly and knowledgeable, sharing lots of interesting facts.

This place is such a gem! It’s also a nonprofit organization, so your admission fee goes directly toward supporting their amazing work and exhibits. We’ll definitely be coming back. Our baby was so engaged the entire time—she especially loved the sea turtle!

I highly recommend this spot to bring your little ones to. The staff were so welcoming, and the whole experience was fun, educational, and memorable. Thank you to everyone at the Living Coast Discovery Center!

Kitty S.

I went during their Owl-O-Ween event and arrived as soon as they started. It was not busy at all and nearly everyone was in costume which added to the fun in my opinion.
I loved looking at the stingrays and sharks and learning about them (the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable). They also have snacks, fish and birds at this facility. I think this is a great place to bring children!

Gionni G.

First off This place is super awesome , When u park remember to wait for tram bus to pick u up buy the left of rv resort and its free for tram and parking. Once it drops u off u can go inside and pay for your tickets . It is a blast here u can see jelly fish ,reptiles ,birds ,and touch stingreys and way more and also hike outside to see the ocean view and thier garden area and food is also aloud here so bring your snacks . Its worth every penny to help nature out we come from Fontana california and its worth every mile to come . Bathrooms are inside and gift area aswell air cond and wheelchair acces aswell .

Star I.

Amazing beautiful place to spend time with family and friends...kiddos love the experience...lots of sea life, nature, and a peaceful setting.. we had a great time thank you😍❤️

Travis G.

Far more than I expected with expert knowledge, extensive display areas and informative tours. Quite impressive.

Sarah C.

No matter what age, my daughter has always enjoyed going to Living Coast Discovery Center. They have several interesting exhibits as well as adorable animals. We love the burrowing owls, roadrunner and even the creepy spiders living in cacti. Eek! They also have 2-3 touch pools full of sensory fun. We enjoy the touch pools because some living creatures don’t feel the way they look. It’s always interesting. Outside of the living coast, there are several trails for a little hiking. We like the views and things you encounter during the hike (bugs, animal skeletons, feathers, etc). Price for an adult ticket is $20 and $15 for children 3-12. It’s worth the price for the educational fun.

Carla E.

Go on their website and review itinerary. Plan ahead. If there's a hike to the bay to bird watch.

Heather C.

I have gone to the Living Coast Discovery Center many times. I have been as a visitor with my family and a teacher with my students. It is always a good time with informative staff, great information, and exciting exhibits and animals. I signed my daughter up for a day camp this winter. It was her first experience in a camp. She LOVED it. She came home every day telling me about a new animal, facts about the animal, showing off her art, and raving about the new games they played. I would highly recommend the facility and or camp to families looking for something engaging for their animal loving children.