A visit to the Oceanview Mine offers a unique opportunity to explore the only public mine in the world-famous Pala Gem mining district, where visitors can discover their own gems such as tourmaline, kunzite (the type location), morganite, aquamarine, schorl, lepidolite, beryl, quartz, and more.
By screening the dump piles of material extracted from the mine, visitors can find the gems that were missed during mining operations—and many are missed! Guests can keep everything they find at no extra charge. The standard dig fee includes the right to keep all found items and allows each visitor to take home one 5-gallon bucket of screened and washed rocks. Additionally, guests receive a jeep tour of Chief Mountain, showcasing the currently active mines and providing views of the historic Pala Chief, Tourmaline Queen, and other renowned mines.
Everything needed for the visit is provided: screens, water, buckets, shovels, and most importantly, a large pile of gem-rich dirt and gravel from the mines. After a brief training session, visitors have four hours to search through the pile for their gems. Along with keeping all discovered items, the standard dig fee also includes one 5-gallon bucket of rocks for further sorting at home if desired. The jeep tour of Chief Mountain offers a chance to see all active mines and historic sites in the area.
At the Oceanview Mine in the Pala mining district, visitors can discover a variety of beautiful gems including kunzite, morganite, aquamarine, tourmaline, quartz, and more.
Educator Package: Includes educational resources, interactive project ideas, trip organization, direct experiential opportunities to help better connect the experience with your students and complimentary chaperone ticket. Does not include student ticket.
Student Package: Includes engaging pre and post educational field trip activities, trip organization and student ticket.
Oceanview Mine
Please use the information on this page (package type, venue name, price, etc.) to submit an order request with your school. Once your order is approved, your school will forward the request to us. We will then reach out to you with instructions on how to finalize your trip details and access accompanying resources. Once finalized, you will receive your e-tickets and any additional materials directly to your inbox within 1-3 business days. If you don't see our email(s), please check your spam folder prior to contacting us.
To ensure a smooth process, it is generally recommended to submit your order with your school AT LEAST 10 business days prior to your trip date, unless you are booking a venue that requires more advanced planning. *Please be mindful of your school's processing times and plan accordingly.