What are the best things to do in the Monterey Bay Aquarium?

Must-see animal exhibits include the glow-in-the-dark jellyfish, Giant Pacific Octopus, and hammerhead sharks at the Open Sea Exhibit. Be sure to catch the penguin and sea otter feedings (get there early for good seats). Check out the three-story Kelp Forest and visit the touch tanks to pet urchins, starfish, and sea cucumbers.

Where can I eat near the Monterey Bay Aquarium?

You can walk to numerous restaurants near Monterey Bay Aquarium in Cannery Row, including Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (seafood), Bistro Moulin (French), IL Vecchio (Italian), Whaling Station Steakhouse (chophouse), Ambrosia (Indian), El Cantaro (vegetarian), Lalla Oceanside Grill (American), The Fish Hopper (seafood), and Johnny Rockets (burgers).

Feel Inspired by Underwater Magic with Monterey Bay Aquarium Activities

Submerge yourself in an amazing undersea realm of graceful sea turtles, spine-tingling sharks, and psychedelic glowing jellyfish. Discover playful sea otters and pie-eyed tropical fish at one of the world's most famous aquariums, located right on the waterfront at Cannery Row. Explore unique ecosystems, including coastal tide pools, colorful coral reefs, and a three-story kelp forest. Watch penguin feedings and touch a real sea cucumber - if you dare. Learn about marine life and conservation through interactive exhibits that span from the California coast to the deepest ocean. Be mesmerized by beautiful seahorses and find seabirds in the aviary. Be sure to prioritize your favorite sights in this massive attraction, and plan on taking breaks at the gift shops, cafe, or outdoors in the sunshine.

Details

Prices -

$49.95 adults, $39.95 students/seniors, $29.95 children 3-12, free for children under 3.

Hours -

9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday. Winter hours may vary.

Events

Evenings by the Bay

Fiesta Del Mar

After-Hours Party

Activities

Habitat-Themed Aquariums
Daily Animal Feedings

Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Underwater Touch Pools

Outdoor Wildlife Viewing
Gift Shops, Cafe & Coffee Bar

FAQs

What are the best things to do in the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
Must-see animal exhibits include the glow-in-the-dark jellyfish, Giant Pacific Octopus, and hammerhead sharks at the Open Sea Exhibit. Be sure to catch the penguin and sea otter feedings (get there early for good seats). Check out the three-story Kelp Forest and visit the touch tanks to pet urchins, starfish, and sea cucumbers.
Where can I eat near the Monterey Bay Aquarium?
You can walk to numerous restaurants near Monterey Bay Aquarium in Cannery Row, including Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (seafood), Bistro Moulin (French), IL Vecchio (Italian), Whaling Station Steakhouse (chophouse), Ambrosia (Indian), El Cantaro (vegetarian), Lalla Oceanside Grill (American), The Fish Hopper (seafood), and Johnny Rockets (burgers).

World-Famous Monterey Bay Aquarium