SeeCalifornia.com

Photo: Buccalo, the giant sea bass, is over 4 feet long and weighs over 165 pounds! He’s the ambassador who greets newcomers visiting his world!

If you’ve never been to Golden Gate Park and only have time to visit one attraction, California Academy of Sciences (which contains Steinhart Aquarium) is a sure bet for those who can devote at least an hour to exploring.  In Golden Gate Park there’s a popular Japanese Tea Garden, de Young Museum, Conservatory of Flowers, Strybing Arboretum and so much more to see. Under one green, living eco-roof, the Academy is truly the jewel of the park–ideal for all ages. With admission (around $30 adult) visitors gain access to the world through Morrison Planetarium, Kimball Natural History Museum and Steinhart Aquarium.

Steinhart Aquarium has been in existence as one of California’s oldest and best known aquariums since 1923, but with a remodel in 2008 the “New” Steinhart Aquarium has heads turning, including non-humans–sharks, rays, African penguins, an alligator and snapping turtles, to name a few. It is one of the most biodiverse and interactive aquariums anywhere, with the world’s deepest living reef tank, a four-level rainforest display, and a unique, ever-changing Water Planet exhibit.

The second largest living coral reef display in the world measures 12,000 sq. ft. and holds 212,000 gallons of water. At a depth of 25 feet, the new coral reef display is the deepest exhibit of live corals in the world. Visitors are able to view the exhibit from the surface as well as from five underwater windows. Open daily, calacademy.org or call (415) 379-8000