Tips for Visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium
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One place that can be found on almost any California Coast itinerary? The Monterey Bay Aquarium of course! Even for local California residents, the aquarium is a popular destination. On my first visit, I was simultaneously awed by the beauty of the wildlife and overwhelmed by the number of things to see and do. Between catching all the feeding times to navigating the exhibits, here are my top tips for visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
For even more insider tips, check out my Instagram highlights for videos that really make the aquarium come to life!
Monterey Bay Aquarium Parking
No matter where you’re coming from, getting to Monterey is half the fun. Situated along California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway, you can begin to appreciate coastal wildlife before you even get to the aquarium. If you are coming from the north, plan to make a brief stop at one of the many beach pullouts to get a great view of Monterey Bay and to walk along the rolling sand dunes. If you are coming from the south, check out one of the many adventures Carmel-By-The-Sea has to offer.
Once you get into Monterey, deciding where to park among the 31 different parking garages in the area is the next battle. After checking out the parking suggestions on the aquarium’s website, I parked at the Cannery Row Lot 7. Since it is the closest parking to the aquarium I paid a very high rate. However, I wish I would have taken advantage of the free trolley at the Downtown East Garage. The map on the website is a little deceptive because it makes the garage look pretty far away from the aquarium. After driving the short route that the trolley would have taken, I think the cheaper $7 rate would have been worth it for the unlimited free trolley.
Visiting the Aquarium
To maximize your time at the aquarium, be strategic about your exhibit route. I started at the Ocean’s Edge, then went up to the Splash Zone, made my way to the Open Sea, and then down to the Special Exhibits.
If there is a particular feeding you are excited to see, make sure to set an alarm at least 15 minutes before it starts in order to get there and get a good viewing spot. The otter feeding was packed but there are alternative spots to see the action, like from the Bridge to the Special Exhibitions. You can also sign up for live text updates for feedings and experiences that aren’t on the main schedule. I was hesitant about signing up because I didn’t want any spam, but I have not received a single message from them since the day of my visit.
Must-See Exhibits at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
To me, there are two really iconic exhibits that are unique to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The first is the otherworldly jellyfish room which you will find on the second floor at the Open Sea. Large floor to ceiling tanks hosts over 8 different species of jellies. The dark rooms and fluorescent tanks make it feel as if you stepped onto a different planet.
Another exhibit that makes the Monterey Bay Aquarium special is the Central California Coast habitats that you will find at the Ocean’s Edge on the first floor. From the three-story kelp forest to the incredible tide pools and aviary, you get an up-close look at the wildlife that is just outside in Monterey Bay itself.
Read Next: Central California Coast Road Trip
Monterey Bay Aquarium Tickets
One of the biggest obstacles to visiting the aquarium is the expensive admission price. At almost $50 per adult, make sure you double-check to see if you can qualify for a discount ticket before purchasing. If you are a California resident or if you plan on visiting more than once, look into becoming a member to save money as well.
Have you been the Monterey Bay Aquarium? I’d love to know your favorite exhibit in the comments!
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