EDUCATIONAL TRIP TO SAN DIEGO

SEA CAVES AND LEOPARD SHARKS

[TRIP LENGTH: 6 DAYS]

Itinerary can be customized to fit within your time frame or budgetary needs.

On this school trip to San Diego, students will learn about the marine biology and coastal ecology found in this southern California region. San Diego and La Jolla boast some the most fascinating ecological habitats in the world.  These include the sea caves in La Jolla cove, the sea lion ecological reserve, the leopard shark breeding grounds and migratory grey whales along Submarine Canyon.  Along with these amazing biological systems you also have the world renowned SCRIPPS Oceanographic Institute which conducts ongoing research into marine biology and oceanography.  Your naturalist guide will lead you to explore these amazing biomes as well as visit with scientist from SCRIPPS to learn about ongoing ocean research.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in San Diego

Arrive at the airport in San Diego and meet your Appleseed Expeditions guide. The school group will check into its accommodations and have an introduction to the program.   Later you explore the famous San Diego Botanical Gardens.

Day 2 – Take in the Famous San Diego Zoo

After an early breakfast your group will visit the San Diego Zoo. This zoo is home to 3000 plus animals representing 800 plus species in a beautifully landscaped setting, including the new 7.5 acre Elephant Odyssey. Arrive early, when the animals are most active. Attractions include animal shows and an aerial tram.

Day 3 – Kayak La Jolla Sea Caves, Have Surf Lessons, Observe Sea Lions

Discover, by kayak, the spectacular sea cliffs, the Seven Caves and the La Jolla Underwater Park with abundant marine life including sea lions, leopard sharks, and garibaldi.  Later in the day your school group will explore La Jolla Cove and learn about the biology of sea lions.  You will come close to these sea lions on your hiking journey.   After this adventure you will take surfing lessons at La Jolla Beach.

Day 4 – Snorkel with Leopard Sharks and Scripps

In the morning, snorkel at the La Jolla Nature Preserve looking for leopard sharks.  Later you will  visit Scripps Marine Science Center.  Scripps Institution is world renowned for its oceanographic research.  You will also have a guided tour of Scripps Oceanographic Center and learn about ongoing marine science studies.

Day 5 – Torrey Pines Nature Preserve and Volunteer

Your group will head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Here you will study the many different marine and terrestrial animals, birds, plant communities as well as the geology of the area. Students will learn about the chaparral plant community, the rare and elegant Torrey pine trees, and the lagoon that is vital to migrating seabirds.  Volunteer at the San Diego’s Feed America program.  This is an organization that fights hunger within low income communities in the San Diego Regional Area.

Day 6 – The Journey Home

From here the group will head home.

Add a Day and go on a Whale Watching Excursion or Seaworld. Add Two Days and Take in Disney World in Los Angeles.

Itinerary subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control including availability with vendors, weather conditions and flight schedules.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Snorkel with Leopard sharks
  • Kayak through sea caves
  • Volunteer at Feed America
  • Explore Torrey Pines with a naturalist
  • Learn to surf
  • Visit SCRIPPS Oceanographic Center
  • Go Whale watching off the California coast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Qualified trip leader – Accompanying each expedition is a diverse team of experts from naturalists to regional specialists who will share their knowledge and insights on the wildlife, landscapes and local culture. Your guide is with the group 24/7 and also staying with you at the same hotel
Daily reflections lead by your tour leader
Overnight stays are in hotels with private bathrooms rated 4 star or more on Trip Advisor
All Meals are included but please note: On arrival day only dinner is provided; on departure day, only breakfast is provided
Tour Journal, T-shirt and Luggage tag
Note: Tour cost does not include airline-imposed baggage fees, or fees for any required passport or visa. Please visit our Fees FAQ page for a full list of items that may not be included in the cost of your tour.