Help Center – Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit

Any Questions?
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Bookings, Tickets and Cancellation

How do I make a booking?

Booking your tickets on our website is quick and easy:

1. Start by checking the availability for the experience you want.
2. Pick your preferred date and time slot.
3. Head to checkout and complete your payment.

That’s it! You’ll get a confirmation email with your ticket details right after booking.

Will I receive a confirmation email after booking?

Yes! You’ll get a confirmation email with your PDF ticket just seconds after your purchase. Make sure to check your inbox!

What should I do if I encounter issues during the booking process?

If you’re having trouble booking, first check our FAQs for quick answers. If you still need help, our Support team is here for you. Use the Contact Form below, and we’ll be happy to assist!

Is this the venue’s official website?

No. This website offers official tickets to the venue. It is not, however, the venue’s official website.

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as Google Pay and Apple Pay. Simply enter your details at checkout, and you’re good to go.

Can I modify or cancel my booking?

It depends on the experience you’ve booked. Most experiences allow cancellations up to 24 hours before the start time, but some are non-refundable. To check the policy for your booking, head to the “See Info” section and look under “Cancellation Policy.”

Do I need to print my tickets, or can I use mobile tickets?

No need to print anything, our tickets are digital. Just show your ticket on your phone, and the staff will validate it. If any extra steps are needed for a specific experience, you’ll find them clearly mentioned in your e-ticket.

How can I contact customer support?

If you couldn’t find the answer to your question through our FAQs section, reach out to us via the Contact Form below.

FAQs about Aquarium of the Bay

What is Aquarium of the Bay?

Aquarium of the Bay is a public aquarium located at Pier 39 in San Francisco, focusing on local aquatic species from the San Francisco Bay and surrounding watersheds.

Where is Aquarium of the Bay located?

It is situated at The Embarcadero and Beach Street, at the edge of Pier 39 in San Francisco, California.

What are the opening hours of Aquarium of the Bay?

The aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Which species can I expect to see at Aquarium of the Bay?

You can see over 200 species indigenous to San Francisco Bay, including sharks, bat rays, otters, jellyfish, and more.

Are there underwater tunnels at Aquarium of the Bay?

Yes, there are two 360-foot-long acrylic underwater tunnels housing around 770,000 gallons of San Francisco Bay salt water.

Is Aquarium of the Bay accessible for visitors with disabilities?

An exterior elevator is currently out of service; visitors should use Pier 39’s internal elevator and proceed through the gift shop to access the aquarium.

Can I touch the animals at Aquarium of the Bay?

Yes, the interactive “Touch the Bay” exhibit allows visitors to touch juvenile bat rays, skates, sharks, sea stars, and other marine creatures.

Is Aquarium of the Bay involved in conservation efforts?

Yes, its mission centers on ocean conservation and climate action both locally and globally.

Does Aquarium of the Bay offer guided tours or educational programs?

The aquarium provides educational programs for K-12 students, internships, volunteer opportunities, and guided tours.

Are pets allowed inside Aquarium of the Bay?

No, pets are not permitted inside the aquarium, except for service animals.

Is there a gift shop available on site?

Yes, a gift shop is available near the entrance offering various marine-themed items.

Are there facilities for private events or birthday parties?

Yes, the aquarium has event spaces suitable for private gatherings and birthday celebrations.

How can I get to Aquarium of the Bay using public transportation?

Visitors are encouraged to use public transit options that serve the historic San Francisco waterfront and Pier 39 area.

What is unique about the Aquarium’s shark population?

Aquarium of the Bay was the first aquarium in the United States to successfully breed healthy Pacific Angel Sharks.

Does the aquarium focus on marine life only in San Francisco Bay?

Yes, all exhibits feature species native to San Francisco Bay and its surrounding waterways.

Is the Aquarium of the Bay part of a larger organization?

Yes, it operates under Bay Ecotarium, the largest watershed conservation organization in the Bay Area.

Are there any special events hosted at Aquarium of the Bay?

The aquarium holds seasonal events like “Otter Snow Days” and educational lecture series throughout the year.

What should I know about visiting with young children?

Interactive exhibits and touch pools make it engaging for children, with educational opportunities for all ages.

Is the aquarium accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums?

As of May 2024, the aquarium’s AZA accreditation was revoked due to not meeting certain standards.

Can I volunteer at Aquarium of the Bay?

Yes, volunteer opportunities are available, including roles that support marine conservation and visitor engagement.