Steinhart Aquarium

Steinhart Aquarium is the aquatic centerpiece of the California Academy of Sciences, combining living exhibits with scientific research to showcase the diversity of freshwater and marine ecosystems. Rather than functioning as a standalone aquarium, it is integrated into a broader natural history museum, allowing visitors to explore the connections between aquatic life, terrestrial environments, and Earth science in a single destination. Its exhibits range from tropical coral reefs to California's coastal waters, emphasizing biodiversity and the relationships between species and their habitats.

Visitors can observe colorful reef fish, sharks, rays, jellyfish, seahorses, freshwater species, and many other aquatic animals displayed in immersive environments that reflect ecosystems from around the world. Large viewing windows, living coral displays, and exhibits highlighting California's marine life provide a varied experience while supporting the academy's mission of scientific research and conservation. The combination of aquarium exhibits, interactive learning opportunities, and access to the academy's wider museum collections makes Steinhart Aquarium especially appealing to travelers interested in both marine life and the natural sciences.