Open 10am to 6pm; on holidays they open at 9:30am. Re-entry allowed on same day. Bring in food, as you can eat outside.

The Aquarium is located on the edge of Monterey Bay on the central coast of California in the town of Monterey. The street it sits on is Cannery Row, made famous by the world-renowned author, John Steinbeck. It was formerly the site of a sardine canning factory and now, inside the aquarium, you can see some of the history and equipment they used.

Once inside the aquarium the exhibits are broken up into sections with the downstairs area hosting two fascinating exhibits - Jellies in Art and the newest exhibit, Sharks Myth and Mystery.

The Jellies in Art exhibit has a combination of pieces of art ranging from fabulous hand-blown, glass anemones by Dale Chihuly, to realistic glass jellyfish to abstract paintings interspersed with real life jellies (aka jellyfish).

The Sharks exhibit is really well done. As you walk through the exhibit, you also walk past tanks of sharks and cultural exhibits from various parts of the world and interactive displays such as movies, ancient masks, storytelling, and even shark rubbings and paper hat making for kids. There is something for all ages here, and it is truly a beautiful exhibit of sharks and rays that explores their roles in various cultures and myths and mysteries that surround them.

The main part of the aquarium hosts many types of sea life, with some of my favorites being the giant tuna tank (the outer reef tank), which, as of today, hosts the world’s longest-living great white shark in captivity. She looks just like a mini-Jaws. I also like the giant rust colored jelly tanks, which are mesmerizing to stand and watch. The otter tank is also a must see to observe these cute and playful creatures frolic about. And last but not least is the large kelp tank that hosts a variety of fish that seem to be suspended, just gently floating, rising and falling with the motion of the waves.

The gift shops at the aquarium are also really neat with something for everyone.

Even the food at the cafe is reasonably priced with many nutritious meals for everyone.

If you haven't been -- GO!!!

We found the sea otters to be our favorites. Watch them eat ice. It's adorable! Also, when you venture in, there is a rectangular box further down the hall that houses little itty-bitty sea creatures. There is usually a volunteer standing there, in our case a fascinating woman. She knew so much about these creatures and showed us so many things we didn't even realize were alive. We could've watched and listened to her all day. Ask her some questions and have her point out the various sponges, coral, etc. You, too, will be left in awe.

The staff is very friendly and helpful.

The Outer Bay Tank has many creatures found in Monterey's outer bay is very huge. Just the tank and glass are impressive, not to mention the creatures that swim in the tank. You can see sunfish, sea turtles, and tuna. It's really amazing. Also don't miss seeing the penguins, and sea otters.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a major local attraction and is a must see for the area.