Exploring the Living Coast Discovery Center: A Hidden Gem in Chula Vista, California

San Diego theme parks  are well known for world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and LEGOLAND California - they attract thousands of tourists to America's Finest City each and every year.

While the major attractions are well worth visiting during your time in San Diego, make sure to carve out some time in your itinerary to visit a few of San Diego's hidden gems - especially the Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista.

If you're a San Diego local or someone who traveled to the city before 2010, you may remember a place known as The Chula Vista Nature Center. In 2010, the beloved local spot was acquired by a non-profit and changed its name to the Living Coast Discovery Center. Animal and ocean enthusiasts will undoubtedly have an unforgettable experience while visiting the zoo/aquarium, complete with plenty of hands-on interactions.

If you're looking for a fun adventure during your time in San Diego, but don't want to stray too far from the city, head straight to Chula Vista for an interesting and educational day getting up close and personal with animals like sea turtles, sharks, bird species and so much more. The Living Coast Discovery Center offers the ideal opportunity for visitors to learn about science and gain important knowledge about some of Southern California's native treasures.

A Glimpse into the Heart of San Diego’s Coastal Ecosystem - What is the Living Coast Discovery Center?

The Living Coast Discovery Center is more than just a zoo or aquarium—it's a hands-on educational experience where guests can get up close with native species and learn about the diverse habitats that make San Diego so special. Located on the San Diego Bay, the center focuses on the local coastal ecosystems, offering exhibits and programs designed to inspire visitors to protect and preserve our natural surroundings. The center is located only 6 miles south of downtown San Diego, and offers a fun educational experience for the whole family. It is a nonprofit zoo, and aims to provide benefits to the species of animals and educational resources to visitors. The discovery center has been a leader in coastal environmental education for more than 30 years. It was founded back in 1987 as the Chula Vista Nature Interpretive Center.

It is simultaneously a zoo, an aquarium, and an environmental education center whose mission is, "to inspire the community to connect with and care for our coastal environment." All of the programs are based on the conservation of San Diego's unique coastal ecosystems and the species that call them home. Instead of operating for profit, the discovery center pours funds back into education programs. Around 80,000 people visit the center each year.

Native Species are at the Living Coast Discovery Center

sea turtle

Image by iStock|:kali9

There are so many critters to delight and inspire visitors on their trip to the discovery center. It's the perfect outing for nature lovers and anyone interested in conservation efforts and marine biology.

Visit Turtle Lagoon to meet the ever-popular Emerald - who serves as a greeter and an introduction to the wild species of sea turtles that make their home in San Diego Bay. 

At the aquarium, you'll get to see all sorts of aquatic creatures that play important roles within San Diego's waters. You'll also encounter trout, frogs, and other freshwater creatures as well as jellyfish, octopuses, and others who call the Pacific Ocean home. Afterward, check out the reptiles like snakes and iguanas.

The sharks and rays make for one of the coolest interactive experiences at Living Coast Discovery Center. You'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal, and even touch the rays and feel their soft skin in a small pool. Nearby, a 21,000-gallon aquarium is home to sharks, bat rays, and guitarfish, along with plenty of other species.

Once you've learned all about the creatures who dwell beneath the water, move on to learn about the majestic creatures who sore through San Diego's blue skies. Hawks, eagles, owls, ducks, and more serve as ambassadors to some of the region's native species at Raptor Row.

Things to do during your visit at the Living Coast Discovery Center

Leopard Shark

Image by iStock|barbaraaaa

The Living Coast Discovery Center is packed with interactive and educational exhibits, making it a fun outing for both kids and adults. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting:

Walk the Marsh Trails: The center is surrounded by lush wetlands, making it the perfect place to take a stroll. There are easy walking trails that offer beautiful views of the Sweetwater Marsh and San Diego Bay, where you can see waterfowl and other wildlife in their natural habitats.

Touch Pools and Interactive Exhibits: The hands-on exhibits allow guests to touch marine life such as stingrays, starfish, and sea anemones. It’s a great way for children (and adults!) to connect with nature.

Bird Watching: Visit the center’s outdoor aviaries to see hawks, owls, and other birds of prey. The educational signs give fascinating insights into their behavior, diet, and conservation status.

Feeding the Animals: One of the highlights for families is watching the animals being fed. The center has scheduled feeding times, where you can observe the wildlife in action as staff educate visitors about the animals’ eating habits and conservation efforts.

Educational Programs and Events: The Living Coast Discovery Center also offers a variety of programs, from school field trips to summer camps. They host special events throughout the year, such as bird-watching tours, guided nature walks, and even "birthday parties with the animals."

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the discovery center has a variety of events and workshops throughout the year. There are often composting workshops that are open to community members, as well as educational events. Consider taking a nature walk with an expert guide, where you'll stroll along the walking trails learning about native species and conservation. Eagle presentations are held Wednesday-Sunday at 10:30am; Sharks/Rays presentations held Wednesday-Sunday at 1:30pm and sea turtle presentations Wednesday-Sunday at 2:30pm.

Locals with little ones might consider signing them up for a multi-day wildlife camp. For more information, check out the events calendar on the Living Coast Discovery Center website.

Where is the Living Coast Discovery Center located?

Address: 1000 Gunpowder Point Dr, Chula Vista, CA 91910

The Living Coast Discovery Center is located in Chula Vista, California which is about 19 miles from downtown San Diego. The drive takes about 23 minutes if you're traveling by car, depending on traffic. The discovery center itself is located within the sensitive ecosystem of the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. It sits right next to the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

How much are the tickets?

The cost of tickets to visit the discovery center is:

Adults: $20

Children (3-12): $15

Children (0-2): Free

Student discount: $16

Senior Discount (65+): $16

Adults and children with disabilities receive 20% off their admission and 1 complimentary attendant ticket

There is a free parking lot for anyone visiting the discovery center located on the corner of Bay Blvd, and E St. once you arrive in Chula Vista. After parking, a complimentary shuttle will pick you up to take you straight to the discovery center. There is also accessible parking for people with disabilities. Simply call 619-409-5900 to inquire or email info@thelivingcoast.org.

What are the hours of operation?

The Living Coast Discovery Center is open Wednesday - Sunday from 10 am until 5 pm. Mondays and Tuesdays, closed.  

Chula Vista, which translates to "beautiful view" is about halfway between San Diego and Tijuana, Mexico. There are plenty of other awesome attractions located throughout the metropolitan area that can easily be combined with a trip to the Living Coast Discovery Center for a full day of fun.

Other nearby attractions you might want to check out include:

Whether you're a long-time San Diego resident, or a tourist visiting for the first time, it's worth taking a day trip to visit the fascinating Living Coast Discovery Center along with Chula Vista's many other attractions.

Happy exploring!