Reviewers describe the facility as a compact, family-friendly venue featuring interactive exhibits, walking trails, and native wildlife, with staff frequently noted for being knowledgeable and welcoming. Common themes include the convenience of free shuttles from large parking structures and the affordability of admission compared to larger regional attractions. Criticisms in lower-rated reviews focus on inconsistent shuttle timing, limited accessibility for strollers, and a lack of diverse representation among employees.
Google rating: 4.6 out of 5 from 1,126 reviews (76% five-star).
Reviews on this page: 1,126 Google reviews (625 with written comments, 190 with photos).
Owner responses: the business replied to 3% of reviews.
Most recent review: October 25, 2026.
Service: Amusement Park serving Chula Vista, California.
Data from Google, last updated October 25, 2026.
Photos
Customer reviews
4.6
★★★★★
1,126 reviews on Google
5★857
4★177
3★58
2★18
1★16
Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).
RH
Rene HenleyLocal Guide · 32 reviews
★★★★★
A grand entrance, plenty of open space, and a rather ambitious name, although I didn’t encounter much living beyond bushes, brush, and branches.
The air smelled wonderfully of marjoram, fennel, and rosemary.
There are several well-maintained walking trails, some sandy and others covered in gravel, overlooking an enormous marsh with the industrial city as its backdrop. a massive parking structure, seemingly ten stories tall can be seen from every direction.
Behind the Discovery Center, there’s what appears to be a trailer resort, along with a public swimming pool.
One convenient feature is the free shuttle that transports visitors into areas where pedestrians and private vehicles aren’t permitted. I didn’t take it, so i don’t know what’s beyond those fences.
The restrooms were clean, and there are plenty of benches along the walking paths, plus a playground.
Dogs must remain on leash at all times. numerous BEWARE OF SNAKES signs, i didn’t encounter any, but the warnings are frequent enough to suggest taking them seriously.
Perfect sized for kids with many exhibits and hands on adventures. Kids loved the shark and Ray exhibit, the wildlife presentation and the staff was super kid friendly
This place is awesome! Aquarium + Zoo + marsh wetland ecosystem of San Diego National Wildlife Refuge. Great place to learn more about native plants and animals or take a walk on one of their private trails accessible only by visiting patrons. My favorite time to visit is right when they open or just before closing, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Although its small, you can tell the staff genuinely cares about this facility and the animals! It wasn't crowded, it was very clean and the interactive shark and ray tank was nice. This place is perfect for toddlers, but the onlh thing is, it can be walked in about 15 minutes. Besides that it was an amazing experience.
Everything was really cool. We got a private session to see emerald and Kasey was very knowledgeable and helpful. Barbra the manta ray was not shy she would come up such up and close experiences id never thought I'd get to do! we will be back again.
There was an amazing volunteer named Ann(e) and she told us all about the birds of prey. It was a great spot to go to learn about San Diego natural wildlife. And more affordable than zoo or aquarium!
This place is the biggest hidden gem in San Diego. It's affordable to get in, and they have so many fun exhibits from eagles, to sea turtles, to a shark and ray touch pool. And that's just the beginning. Located on a national wildlife refuge, you are surrounded by nature and there are trails you can explore and even a compost garden and native polinatior garden. It takes only a few hours to explore, so if you're looking for an animal experience that is affordable and doesn't take all day, this is the place for you! The gift shop is also amazing :)
So much fun at the event on Saturday, 9/19. It was very well managed, attended, and received by guests and vendors. The facility and grounds are so interesting. The gift shop is well stocked with ni e things.
Living Coast Discovery is a beautiful and great place to visit. Can get hot so be sure to bring extra water for you and the kiddo's. Had a awesome time. Definitely recommend coming to visit.
