Educational Programs for All

Since opening in 1987, the Living Coast Discovery Center has offered a variety of educational programs right here on the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Sweetwater Marsh.

living coast discovery center
The Living Coast - Field Trips - Turtle Lagoon

The Living Coast - Field Trips - Preschool

Preschool Programs

Begin exploring the natural world! We have numerous educational classes that are designed to be fun, engaging, and age-appropriate. Preschool programs include an hour-long lesson and craft facilitated by the Living Coast Education Instructor per class. Fees include admission to animal exhibits and a provided lunch space with storage.

Program Fees

  • $350 / class (includes 32 preschoolers + 3 adults)
  • $11 / extra adult (Max of 3 per class; staff or parent, no siblings)
  • $50 / shuttle (for groups arriving by car/walking)

K-12 Programs

K-12 Programs are station-based, with some stations being led by Living Coast staff members and docents. If docents are unavailable, classroom teachers and/or chaperones are required to lead stations using provided resources.

The exact program schedule and stations vary by group size and program type. Field trip programming takes approximately 4 hours. Please be prepared for programs to occur outside, rain or shine.

Program Fees

  • $350 / class (includes 32 students & 3 adults)
  • $11 / extra adults (Max of 3 per class; staff or parent, no siblings)
  • $50 / shuttle (for groups arriving by car/walking)

Included with Fees

  • Program by trained staff
  • Scavenger hunts for exploring aquarium
  • Trail backpacks with teacher-led activities
  • Exploration of exhibits, including turtles, sharks, and eagles
  • Provided lunch space with storage
The Living Coast - Field Trips - K-12


Title 1 School Financial Aid

Through the generous support of local organizations and foundations, financial support is available for Title 1 schools.

2023-2024 Important Dates

School Registration Opens: July 1
Last Day to Apply for Title 1 Aid: March 15, 2024


Education Department Contact Info

education@thelivingcoast.org | (619) 409-5908