Coronado Beach Resort recently met kid blogger Gabriella and her mom Heather during their visit to our resort. Gabriella loves animals more than anything, and we were so inspired by her enthusiasm that we decided to do a round-up of all our favorite animal spots in Southern California.
San Diego Zoo
San Diego, CA
The San Diego Zoo turns 100 next year! The zoo includes 3,700 rare and endangered animals in 100 acres of naturalistic habitats. Give yourself at least three to four hours to visit.
Birch Aquarium
La Jolla, CA
Your kids will love the interactive tide pool and hands-on science center. Learn about starfish, sharks, whales, and more. You can even meet a sea turtle!
SEA LIFE Aquarium
Carlsbad, CA
Walk through a 35-foot-long underwater tunnel while sharks swim overhead. Then watch the mesmerizing moon jellies change color in the light.
Safari Park
Escondido, CA
This North County hot spot is an extension of the zoo in Balboa Park. Take a tram through the park’s African field exhibit, where you’ll see giraffes, rhinos, and more.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla, CA
This is one of the best places in San Diego for kayaking and snorkeling. You’re likely to spot sea lions, bright orange Garibaldis, and even harmless leopard sharks!
Aquarium of the Pacific
Long Beach, CA
Located south of Los Angeles, the Long Beach aquarium includes 11,000 animal exhibits and lots of educational opportunities for kids.
ZOOMARS
San Juan Capistrano, CA
This petting zoo is home to pampered ponies, llamas, goats, and rabbits. There’s also Miner’s Gulch, where kids can pan for gemstones, fossils, and fool’s gold.
SeaWorld
San Diego, CA
SeaWorld brings kids into the world of their favorite aquatic animals. Swim with dolphins or meet a penguin face-to-face!
Cabrillo National Monument
San Diego, CA
The tidepools at Cabrillo National Monument are home to starfish, anemones, and even octopi. Ranger walks are available during most low tides.
San Diego Natural History Museum
San Diego, CA
Kids can learn about contemporary and prehistoric ancestors and their natural habitats. The museum currently features a fossil exhibit and 200 animal skulls from its collection.
Living Coast Discovery Center
Chula Vista, CA
The small zoo and aquarium is located on the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, giving you a feel for Southern California’s coastal habitat.
Pacific Marine Mammal Center
Laguna Beach, CA
The center rescues sick and injured seals and sea lions, with the goal of releasing then back into the wild. There’s no charge for visiting, but donations are appreciated.