Living Coast Discovery Center (Chula Vista)

Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista: best for ages 0-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12; $22 adults (13+) · $16 children (3–12) · free 2 & under.

Address1000 Gunpowder Point Dr., Chula Vista, CA 91910

Hours10am–5pm; closed Mon & Tue (per the official events calendar)

Prices$22 adults (13+) · $16 children (3–12) · free 2 & under

Price notesPre-purchased tickets are not required (official admissions page).

Age notesTicket tiers: children 3–12, adults 13+; ages 2 & under free.

BookingTickets do not need to be bought in advance (official admissions page).

Suggested timeAbout 2 hours

AccessibilityThe center is reached from its parking lot only by a free shuttle; the official directions page states the shuttle is free and accessible and can even hold a stroller.

ParkingFree guest parking in the center's lot; a free shuttle runs from the lot to the center (first pickup 10am, last return 5pm)

Hours in detailOpen 10:00 AM-5:00 PM (center hours per official programs pages); entry is by shuttle only - see parkingDetail.

ParkingGuest parking is FREE, but the center sits inside the Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and there is NO walking or biking route in: the only access is the center's complimentary shuttle from the parking lot. The shuttle is free, ADA-accessible and can carry your stroller. First pickup is 10:00 AM, last pickup from the lot 4:30 PM, and the last shuttle back from the center leaves at 5:00 PM. Refuge walking trails can be reached by the same shuttle without paying center admission.

AccessibilityOne complimentary attendant ticket is offered per paid person with disabilities (children 2 and under excluded). The shuttle is ADA-accessible; one wheelchair is available for checkout (license or ID held until return); private restrooms are available on request at the front desk. Service animals are allowed except inside the Shorebird Aviary, and must check in at the front desk.

Age notesGuests must be at least 16 to visit without adult supervision; visitors 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.

Official tipsPrograms and field trips run about 80% outdoors with limited shade - dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a reusable water bottle (refill stations on site); programs run rain or shine.

Verified perk: Museums for All — $5 admission with EBT/CalFresh/SNAP/WICGuests with an EBT, CalFresh, SNAP or WIC card can buy general admission tickets for $5; admission must be bought onsite and the current card must be presented at entry with valid matching ID. Cannot be applied to special event tickets or programs. The center also offers a 'Membership 4 All' 12-month membership for up to 4 named members for $40 (official discounts page).

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Venue details last verified November 5, 2026 against official sources. Hours and prices change — check the official site before you go. FamilyDay AI is a free planning tool for parents; we list only facts we have verified, and we never invent ratings or reviews.

Living Coast Discovery Center — Chula Vista, California

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