Monterey Bay Aquarium

Discover life in Monterey 's bay at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the United States . Dedicated to marine research and conservation, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is internationally acclaimed for its interactive exhibits and ability to present marine life on a grand scale. Probe the deep wonders of Monterey Bay from this Cannery Row attraction as you tour the Aquarium's matchless near-shore and coastal exhibits that explore the habitat and ecosystem of the tide-pools, and venture to the Outer Bay exhibit, showcasing hammerhead sharks, schools of sardines, enormous sun fish and green sea turtles. Kids love the "Splash Zone", featuring kid-sized exhibits, South African penguins, and much more. Little ones are particularly intrigued by the bay ray pool, where you can actually pet the fish. The most spectacular new exhibit is Jellies: Living Art , a splendid combination of rare and delicate jellies and fine art. Don't miss feeding time in the giant kelp forest exhibit or the sea otter tank. Another "must see" exhibit is Sharks: Myth and Mystery , which features living species of sharks and rays (some rare) in two vast tanks and in a shark touch pool. Complementing the living creatures are displays of the artwork, masks, stories and dances that illustrate man's interaction with sharks, collected from cultures as disparate as Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Northwest . For more information, visit www.mbayaq.org .