Monterey Bay Aquarium Monterey

Monterey Activities

How big is the Kelp Forest exhibit? Who started the aquarium? How many people visit each year? Find out in our frequently asked questions about the aquarium's history, exhibit construction, maintenance and animal care.

Hours:

Open every day except Dec. 25
Regular hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Winter: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Summer/holidays: 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Summer weekends: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
More information: (831) 648-4800

Dining:

Enjoy spectacular views of the bay as you relax for lunch or a snack at our casual Portola cafe, elegant Portola restaurant or full-service bar. We offer a wide-range of menu options and you're likely to spot seals, sea otters and even the occasional whale as you dine.

Shopping:

The Aquarium's gift and bookstores offer a wide selection of items relating to the Aquarium's exhibits and history, as well as the Monterey Bay area. In addition to our four onsite stores, you can order items from our online catalog by phone seven days a week.

Directions:

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located in Monterey at the west end of historic Cannery Row, just minutes from Carmel and Pebble Beach. Monterey is approximately 125 miles (208 km) south of San Francisco and 360 miles (600 km) north of Los Angeles.

From the North on Hwy 1
Look for the Monterey Bay Aquarium exit sign. Follow the brown Monterey Bay Aquarium directional signs to Del Monte Ave. On Del Monte, stay in the right two lanes past Fisherman's Wharf then through the tunnel to Foam St. Continue to follow the brown directional signs to Cannery Row parking and the Aquarium.

From the South on Hwy 1
From the South, you have two choices:

1.Look for the Monterey Bay Aquarium exit sign. Follow the brown Monterey Bay Aquarium directional signs to Del Monte Ave. On Del Monte, stay in the right two lanes past Fisherman's Wharf then through the tunnel to Foam St. Continue to follow the brown directional signs to Cannery Row parking and the Aquarium.

2.Exit Hwy 1 at Hwy 68 West/Pacific Grove. Continue 4 miles to David Ave., then turn right and follow David Ave. to the end. You'll see the Aquarium and signs for parking on Cannery Row.

Disabled Access:

The Aquarium is fully accessible to the disabled and limited parking for the disabled is offered onsite. Call (831) 648-4800 for disabled parking information.

A limited number of wheelchairs are available for use during an Aquarium visit on a first-come, first-served basis.

Monterey Bay Aquarium