April 3 – June 30, 2026
Watch grunion come ashore during one of nature’s most unique beach spectacles at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium.
Each evening starts with entry to the aquarium and a short film on grunion, followed by a hatching experience. Then head to the beach for a staff-led observation of grunion along the shoreline.
Runs are scheduled on the following dates:
- Friday, April 3 – 8pm
- Sunday, April 19 – 9pm
- Saturday, May 2 – 7:30pm
- Monday, May 18 – 9pm
- Tuesday, June 2 – 9pm
- Tuesday, June 16 – 8pm
- Tuesday, June 30 – 7:30pm
Wear warm clothing and bring a flashlight — it can get cold on the coast and groups are often still on the beach close to midnight. Note that all events fall during the closed season, so no grunion may be collected.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children (ages 2–17). Tickets can be purchased at this link.
What to know before you go:
- Entry to the aquarium included
- Short film on grunion
- Hatching experience
- Beach-side, staff-led grunion observation
- CMA cannot guarantee grunion will appear on the beach
- Parking lot entry is a $4 flat fee from 7:30pm–10:30pm (credit card only; no cash)
- No vehicle entry after 10:30pm — foot entry still available
- Parking lot closes at midnight
- On weekend nights (April 3 and May 2), food trucks will be available
- The CMA Gift Shop will be open late
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Before You Go: Visit Cabrillo Marine Aquarium‘s website for updates and details. This event is organized by Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. Kidsguide is an independent community resource helping families discover fun events across Southern California.
Looking for more family fun? Explore more family-friendly events on our blog, browse our calendar, check out limited-time exhibits and experiences, or subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates.
