HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT TO MONTEREY BAY: AQUARIUM BY DAY, ECO TOUR BY SUNSET
A visit to Monterey Bay can be an exciting journey into the wonders of marine life, showcasing the beauty and diversity of our ocean ecosystems. From the immersive learning experience of the Monterey Bay Aquarium to the hands-on exploration of a Monterey Bay Eco Tour, here’s how to make the most of your day in Monterey Bay.
Start your day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a world-renowned center for marine life and ocean conservation. Here, you’ll come face to face with over 35,000 creatures, representing more than 550 marine species. The Aquarium’s exhibits showcase a variety of habitats, from the kelp forests and deep seas of the California coast to the vibrant coral reefs of the Tropical Pacific.
A must-see exhibit is the Kelp Forest, an awe-inspiring 28-foot tall exhibit filled with leopard sharks, schools of sardines, eels, and, of course, the playful sea otters, which are part of the Aquarium’s significant rescue and release program. The aquarium offers daily feedings and presentations that add an educational touch to the experience.
Once you’ve explored the wonders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, grab a quick lunch at one of the many locally-sourced restaurants nearby, and get ready for the next part of your adventure — a sunset tour with Monterey Bay Eco Tours.
In the afternoon, switch from observer to explorer as you embark on an electric boat tour of Elkhorn Slough with Monterey Bay Eco Tours. Here, you’ll witness the rich biodiversity of Monterey Bay in its natural setting. You’ll see sea otters in their natural habitat, seals lounging on mudflats, and an array of bird species. As the tour is led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these creatures and their habitats.
As the day draws to a close, one of the highlights of the Monterey Bay Eco Tours is the sunset trip. This tour offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy the spectacular Monterey Bay sunsets. As the sky changes colors, from vibrant orange to soft pink and purple, you’ll see silhouettes of birds flying home to roost—an unforgettable sight.
By combining a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium with a Monterey Bay Eco Tour, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive and enriching experience of Monterey Bay’s marine life. Start your day learning about the creatures of the sea and end it with a hands-on exploration of the rich biodiversity of Monterey Bay. This combo offers an unrivaled way to appreciate the beauty and complexity of our ocean ecosystems and the importance of conserving them for future generations.