Swim With otters
A small-group encounter unlike anything else: in-water time with otters, a meet-and-greet with six or more species, and a day that funds the nature center caring for them.
- 3–4 Hours
- 35–60 Min In-Water
- Ages 16+
- 8–10 Guests
$689 Per guest · taxes & fees included
More than a swim
The Public Otter Swim is a 3 to 4 hour guided encounter where 8 to 10 guests share 35 minutes to an hour of in-water time with otters and meet at least six other species, from sloths and armadillos to capybaras and lemurs.
It is an intimate, expert-led day at a working nature inspiration center, not a theme-park attraction. Every reservation directly funds the care of these animals, conservation programs, and free encounters for children facing illness.
Your day, start to finish
Start With Six+ Species
Your day opens with the other residents: sloths, armadillos, foxes, capybaras, hornbills, and lemurs. The lineup varies by date.
Then Into The Water
35 to 60 minutes in the pool with otters, guided every moment by our animal care team.
Small Guided Group
Just 8 to 10 guests per program, so the experience stays personal and unhurried.
Purpose Behind It
Every reservation funds animal care, conservation, and free encounters for children in need.
Come ready for the water
Bring With You
- Comfortable bathing suit and a t-shirt
- Towel and a full change of clothes
- A bag for your wet clothes
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Waterproof case for phone or camera
- Photo ID for age verification
Please Leave At Home
- Loose jewelry, necklaces, and earrings
- Body piercings
- Outside pets and service animals
- Anything that cannot get wet
Before you book
Reservations & Eligibility
Every guest needs their own paid reservation. One reservation admits one person, so there are no observer, photographer, or tag-along spots and no attending on someone else's booking. Guests must be at least 16. Any guest aged 16 or 17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who also holds their own paid reservation. You may transfer your reservation to another guest 18 or older at any time; just let us know before your date so we can update the name. A valid photo ID and a signed digital waiver are required for every guest.
Cancellations & Rescheduling
30+ days out: full refund or one reschedule. Within 30 days: non-refundable. Reservations are transferable to anyone 18 or older; just let us know before your date. Refunds processed within 30 days.
Weather
Encounters go ahead rain or shine and are paused only for severe weather. Our team confirms details with you the day before your visit.
Booking Window
The schedule opens one calendar year at a time and there is no waitlist, so reserving early is the surest way to get your date.
Public Otter Swim FAQ
What is the Public Otter Swim?
It is a small-group, guided encounter at Nurtured by Nature in Pauma Valley, California. Over 3 to 4 hours you share 35 minutes to an hour of in-water time with otters and meet at least six other species. Every reservation funds the nature center and its rescue, conservation, and education work.
How much time do I actually spend in the water with the otters?
Between 35 minutes and one hour of in-water otter time, set within a 3 to 4 hour guided visit that also includes hands-on time with other animals.
What is the minimum age, and can I bring my child?
Guests must be at least 16 years old. Any guest aged 16 or 17 must attend with a parent or legal guardian who also holds their own paid reservation. Every guest needs their own paid reservation; one reservation admits one person, and there are no observer or tag-along spots. Photo ID and age verification are required, along with a digital facility waiver.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear weather-appropriate layers and bring a comfortable bathing suit with a t-shirt, towel, and a waterproof case for your phone or camera for the pool. Please leave loose jewelry, necklaces, earrings, and piercings at home.
What is the cancellation and rescheduling policy?
With 30 or more days notice you may take a full refund or reschedule once. Within 30 days, reservations are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled. Reservations are transferable to anyone 18 or older; just let us know before your date. Refunds are processed within 30 days. (Policy effective January 1, 2023.)
How do reservations work?
Reservations are required and each guest needs their own. 8 to 10 spots are available per program and the schedule opens one calendar year at a time. There is no waitlist, so booking ahead is the best way to secure a date.
Is the pool heated? Do I need a wetsuit?
Yes, the pool is heated, and no wetsuit is required. Just bring a comfortable bathing suit.
Let's get you in the water
Reservations are required and spots are limited to 8 to 10 per program. Choose a date below to begin.
The live booking calendar for the Public Otter Swim will embed here.
