Monterey
Bay Aquarium started with one man’s vision as he
believed that everyone should be able to enjoy the richness and
bountifulness of Monterey Bay’s marine life. Frank Booth,
the “Father of Cannery Row”, asked the city in 1914
if they could build a $10,000 aquarium. While this project did
not pass, it seemed to spark an interest that spread. Although
multiple people were interested in his idea, no one succeeded
in receiving permission to build until 1979. From there, the expansion
has been tremendous.It is right on the California Coast at the
end of Cannery Row in Monterey. The drive is short from the Bay
Area, Santa Cruz, and Salinas. The drive south is gorgeous as
it winds through the hills of Big Sur.
The Outer Bay exhibit has huge tuna, barracudas, sharks, and many
others, including great whites at certain times of the year. This
is a favorite for anyone who visits to watch the daily feedings
in one of the largest water tanks in the world. There are hands
on exhibits with sting rays and skates from all over the world.
The sea otters are another must see and the outer deck where you
can watch the wild animals below in their habitat in the bay.
Visit the kids area where the kids can play and relax and run
off some pent up energy then go over to see the jellyfish.
The Aquarium also offers a wide variety of activities for the
public to enjoy. There are sailing adventures, behind the scenes
tours, underwater adventures, and even a sleep over. Teachers
enjoy guided field trips that are educational for students of
all ages.
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Monterey
Bay Hotels and Accommodations |
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La
Quinta Inn Monterey - The La Quinta Inn Monterey is
a non-smoking hotel and a breath of fresh air for road-weary travelers
in search of comfortable and convenient accommodations. Located
less than 2 blocks from the beach, this all-new hotel is adjacent
to the Monterey bike and walking trail that leads to Fisherman's
Wharf and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. More
information. |
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Best
Western Monterey Inn - he Best Western Monterey Inn is
within walking distance to Fisherman's Wharf, downtown Monterey and
the conference center. Nearby is historic Cannery Row and the world
famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Beautiful and spacious rooms feature
separate dressing area, refrigerators and coffee makers and all are
non-smoking. Some include a fireplace and ocean views. More
information. |
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Monterey
Downtown Travelodge - The Monterey Downtown Travelodge
is minutes to the Monterey Peninsula Airport, Carmel, 17 Mile Drive,
Cannery Row and Pebble Beach's World class golf, Monterey Bay Aquarium
(Tickets Available), whale watching, beaches, scuba diving, fishing,
sailing, dining and shopping. More
information. |
Just
outside the aquarium is a town bustling with activity. Cannery Row
is a favorite place to shop and take a walk through the history
of Monterey. The pier is popular for browsing shops, buying some
of the best clam chowder in the world, taking fishing trips, or
the always sought after whale watching trips. No reservations are
necessary for the trips and you can usually find a boat that is
getting ready to leave. The restaurants on the pier are known for
their great seafood and the service is outstanding. The wildlife
will keep you entertained as seals and otters try to grab the morsels
being thrown off the sides by local fishermen. Article
by Robin Canada |
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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. |
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