The center is located on a former landfill site that was remediated and converted into a wildlife refuge.
It is the only facility in the United States that allows visitors to view native San Diego Bay sharks and rays in a touch-pool setting.
The facility operates a hospital dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured local sea turtles.
It sits at the terminus of a historic 1.5-mile trail that serves as the only public access point to the Gunpowder Point area.
The center houses a collection of non-releasable raptors, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons.
The site uses a solar-powered grid to offset a portion of its energy consumption for aquarium life-support systems.
The Living Coast Discovery Center is a non-profit zoo and aquarium situated within the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. It specializes in regional Southern California wildlife, featuring exhibits for sharks, rays, sea turtles, and various coastal birds. The center functions as an environmental education facility focused on the native flora and fauna of the San Diego Bay. Visitors can view touch pools containing rays and sharks, as well as an aviary housing raptors and waterfowl. The facility serves as a rehabilitation site for injured local wildlife. Its location at Gunpowder Point provides direct access to walking trails that traverse the surrounding salt marsh ecosystem.
The elevated boardwalk overlooking the San Diego Bay and the salt marsh.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the trail leading from the parking lot to the center.
Check the daily feeding schedule upon arrival to observe the marine animals when they are most active.
Bring binoculars for bird watching, as the surrounding salt marsh is a critical habitat for migratory species.
Attempting to walk the entire refuge perimeter without checking the tide charts, as some areas may be inaccessible during high tide.
Typically closed on Mondays; check official website for seasonal holiday closures.
Maintain a quiet volume near the animal enclosures; do not feed wildlife outside of designated touch-pool experiences.
