A Visit to The Monterey Bay Aquarium

One of the quaintest towns in California is Monterey Bay. This beautiful, sleepy little town is located right on the coast of the Pacific Ocean and it possesses a lengthy cultural history based on the sea. That is why it is no surprise that the local Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most popular aquariums in the United States. One reason for this is that this is no run of the mill aquarium. It has some of the most unique exhibits in the entire country and they truly make the trip to the aquarium something special.

For example, did you know that the aquarium will often develop a special exhibit based on providing a unique insight into a particular sea creature? One animal that was featured in a series of special exhibits was the popular seahorse. Now, while most people are familiar with what a seahorse looks like, very few people know much about them. That is why an exhibit like this can be so fun. It has the potential to open one's eyes to the wonders of the undersea world in a way not thought of before. Actually, all of the exhibits in the aquarium have the potential to do this.

The exhibits are quite varied and include octopi, sea otters, the local kelp beds, an overview of the bay itself and many other excellent exhibits. No matter what you think you may know about the sea, there are exhibits here that can truly open your eyes to some amazing sites. The expansiveness of the water is beyond what most people think and that is why visits here can be so engaging.

Also, you are not limited to merely looking or learning about the life aquatic. In fact, there are many adventure tours you can take on the bay. Sailing and boating trips are common and they can truly allow you to get up close and personal with some of the amazing sea life that is indigenous to the region. And, yes, you will be quite amazed at the creatures you come across on these adventures. But, do not worry, they are mainly very friendly! For those feeling extra adventurous, the local area offers Discover Diving programs where you can get even closer to the aquatic life.

There are many formal (well, really informal) education programs available here for those that would like to learn more about the ocean. These classes are designed for both adults and children and they can greatly expand your knowledge of the sea in a way you may not have thought possible. And, of course, the process is a lot of fun and definitely worth exploring.

There really is no off season to visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium so you can visit it any time of the year. Also, the prices for tickets are reasonable so no trip to the aquarium ever needs to set visitors back a great deal of money. A visit to this aquarium is fun, educational, and exciting. Why not plan a trip here the next time you are in the Monterey Bay area?

Laura Eggers Underhill is the author and publisher of the online travel guide http://www.monterey-getaway.com