The Sea Star Search with The Elf on the Shelf

Santa's Scout Elves have tracked down every missing decoration from SEA LIFE's Undersea Christmas Tree, including the shiny Christmas Sea Star that sits on top, and now they need young explorers to bring everything home.

Kids pick up an activity sheet at the entrance, then visit challenge points throughout the aquarium where they help Scout Elves from The Elf on the Shelf complete festive tasks. Each task earns a piece of the Christmas Sea Star, which kids assemble into an ornament to take home.

Finish the trail and you become an official Christmas Star with an exclusive Elf on the Shelf certificate. Along the way, there are sharks, rays, seahorses, a walk-through ocean tunnel and a touch pool with real sea stars.

📅 Dates & Times

November 20, 2026 – January 3, 2027

Daily during aquarium operating hours.

Hours vary by date, so check the park hours calendar before you go.

📍 Venue

SEA LIFE Aquarium at LEGOLAND California Resort

1 Legoland Dr

Carlsbad, CA 92008

👨🏻‍👩🏻‍👦🏻‍👦🏻 Age Requirement

All ages are welcome. SEA LIFE is designed for kids ages 2–12.

🎟️ Tickets/Price

Included with all SEA LIFE admission tickets, including LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE Hopper tickets. Ticket prices vary by date.

Buy SEA LIFE tickets

🍔 Food

Please check the website for more information.

🚙 Parking

Paid resort parking with Regular and Preferred lots; parking can be prebooked in the LEGOLAND app. See parking and directions for current rates.

🌐 Website Link

The Sea Star Search with The Elf on the Shelf at SEA LIFE Aquarium

🧭 Directions

Click on the “Google” map for directions.

📢 Disclaimer

Event listings are believed to be accurate at the time of posting, but details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm all details with the event organizer before attending. FUN WITH KIDS IN LA® is not liable for errors, omissions, or changes to listings in our calendar. Some events have paid us to be on our events calendar, and some events contain an affiliate link.