Sea Life Aquarium

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As a part of the LEGOLAND family of attractions located in nearby Carlsbad, CA, the SEA LIFE Aquarium is a great place for families to head if they love the idea of spending time at the intersection of marine life and building blocks. And who doesn’t?

In all honesty, the SEA LIFE Aquarium at LEGOLAND California alternately called SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium is actually one of the most unique experiences you will ever have. Combining the magic of underwater life with the special attraction of LEGOs, this child-centered attraction is a must-add for anyone travelling with children ages 2-12.

Money Saving Tip! Sea Life Aquarium, Carlsbad is included on the Go San Diego Pass. If you are sightseeing in Southern California, then you can save a lot of money with the card. PLUS SAVE AN ADDITIONAL 10% OFF off a Go San Diego Pass with coupon code CMGOCITY10.

Sea Life Aquarium History

The SEA LIFE Aquarium in Carlsbad is actually part of a much larger chain of aquariums located across the country and the world. It is owned and operated by the Merlin Entertainments Company, the second-largest theme park company in the world. A European company, Merlin also operates the LEGOLAND and Madame Tussauds lines. The series of Sea Life Centres, 26 in total, are located throughout the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Asia. The company is dedicated to marine conservation through education and awareness. The Sea Life brand is responsible for the well-known S.O.S. or Save Our Seas campaign which works closely with Greenpeace, the Worldwide Fund for Nature, and the British Divers Marine Life Rescue, among others.

The SEA LIFE Aquarium in Carlsbad operates in consort with the LEGOLAND Resort and is actually located on the same premises off of Interstate 5, just 30 minutes to the north of San Diego. The SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium opened in 2008 and has been a popular add-on to trips to the LEGOLAND Resort and southern California in general ever since.

Sea Life Aquarium: The Main Attraction

Like its sister park, LEGOLAND, one of the most unique aspects of the SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium is that its displays, education, and activities are decidedly geared towards children ages 2-12. Whereas most other aquariums in the U.S. and beyond (including other Sea Life Centres) are geared towards all audiences, the Carlsbad Aquarium wanted to remain true to the youth-oriented tone of the LEGOLAND Resort.

Smaller than most aquariums, the SEA LIFE experience is geared towards the attention span of its target audience. It is a great addition to a trip to Carlsbad since it only takes an hour or two to explore thoroughly. This includes checking out displays oriented towards children as well as hands-on learning opportunities at the Interactive Rockpool and the Claws exhibit, which is dedicated to crabs and other crustaceans.  Along with play spaces, quiz trails and, of course, LEGO displays of their favorite under sea friends, children are sure to find a trip to SEA LIFE both fun and educational.

In addition to these permanent exhibitions and activities, there are also daily shows and feedings featuring the men and women who work with the inhabitants of the SEA LIFE world each day. Children have the option to watch a puppet show, learn what it means to be a shark biologist, and even feed a seahorse. There are also additional package options at SEA LIFE which include school and group tours and even birthday parties.

Why Sea Life Aquarium is a Must-See

Like LEGOLAND, the child-centered experience at SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium is second to no other theme park in the vast California landscape. Parents who want to take a vacation that focuses on their children and activities that are safe, appropriate, and educational for them will find that the offerings at SEA LIFE and LEGOLAND California are perfectly suited to their needs. Even families that don’t want a completely child-centered vacation experience can enjoy the immense benefits of a day trip to SEA LIFE as a break from the more complex theme parks.

Where to Buy Sea Life Aquarium Tickets

There are a number of ways you can enjoy admission to this attraction.

Pay Full Price and purchase a ticket from Sea Life Aquarium, Carlsbad either online or in person.

Purchase a Tourist pass. Sea Life Aquarium is available on the Go San Diego Card with a small upgrade charge.