Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay is a waterfront aquarium dedicated primarily to the marine life and ecosystems of San Francisco Bay. Its exhibits are organized around the Bay itself, giving the destination a strong regional identity rather than presenting a broad collection of species from around the world. The aquarium's largest gallery, Under the Bay, uses two underwater tunnels totaling 300 feet and containing more than 200 species, creating views of animals swimming overhead and around visitors.

The experience combines immersive viewing with hands-on encounters. Discover the Bay introduces habitats and animals found around the shoreline, while Touch the Bay offers opportunities to interact with bat rays, skates, sharks, sea stars, and other tidepool animals. Other exhibits highlight jellyfish and North American river otters, with the latter featured in presentations and training sessions led by aquarium biologists. The emphasis on local marine life, underwater tunnel viewing, and interactive exhibits makes the aquarium particularly suited to travelers who want to understand San Francisco Bay while exploring its wildlife.