Family and nature · Cannery Row, Monterey
Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the best-known public aquariums in the country, built over the edge of Monterey Bay at the end of Cannery Row.
Photo: Meij.kobayashi, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The Monterey Bay Aquarium sits on the site of a former sardine cannery, right on the water at the western end of Cannery Row. Its exhibits focus on the living bay outside its windows: the towering kelp forest, the open ocean, rocky shores, and the sea otters that most visitors come to see.
Plan on spending at least half a day. Feeding times and talks run through the day, so check the daily schedule when you arrive and build your route around the exhibits you care about most.
Good to know
- Buy timed tickets online before you go, especially on weekends, holidays, and in summer.
- Weekday mornings and late afternoons tend to be calmer than midday.
- Walk the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail or Cannery Row afterward rather than moving the car.
For current hours, tickets, and conditions, check the official source: montereybayaquarium.org.
Where to stay
Stay close to Monterey Bay Aquarium
Monterey Peninsula Cannery Row Inn
Monterey, CA
Boutique rooms steps from Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Explore
Monterey Peninsula Stargazer Hotel
Monterey, CA
A newly renovated coastal retreat in the heart of Monterey.
Explore
Monterey Peninsula Scottish Fairway Inn
Monterey, CA
A warm Monterey stay with easy Highway 1 access.
Explore