What To Know
- The Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific are two of the most renowned aquariums in the world, captivating visitors with their diverse marine life exhibits.
- Both Monterey Bay Aquarium and Aquarium of the Pacific offer exceptional experiences for visitors interested in marine life.
- While Monterey Bay Aquarium is larger and boasts a wider range of exhibits, Aquarium of the Pacific provides a more compact and interactive experience with fewer crowds.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific are two of the most renowned aquariums in the world, captivating visitors with their diverse marine life exhibits. As both aquariums boast impressive collections and expansive facilities, a common question arises: which one is bigger?
Size Comparison
The Monterey Bay Aquarium spans over 350,000 square feet, while the Aquarium of the Pacific covers approximately 190,000 square feet. This significant difference in square footage makes Monterey Bay Aquarium the larger of the two.
Exhibit Diversity
Despite the difference in size, both aquariums offer a wide range of exhibits showcasing various marine ecosystems.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Open Sea: Features a towering kelp forest and a variety of open-ocean species, including great white sharks and bluefin tuna.
- Monterey Bay Habitats: Exhibits local marine life, such as sea otters, sea lions, and rockfish.
- Jellies: Displays a mesmerizing array of jellyfish species.
- Tentacles: Highlights cephalopods, including octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish.
Aquarium of the Pacific
- Tropical Pacific: Focuses on the vibrant marine life of the Pacific Ocean, featuring sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
- Northern Pacific: Exhibits species found in the colder waters of the Pacific Northwest, including salmon, sea turtles, and sea anemones.
- Southern California/Baja: Showcases the marine biodiversity of the local region.
- Lorikeet Forest: Provides an immersive experience with free-flying lorikeets.
Educational Programs
Both aquariums are dedicated to educating visitors about marine conservation and oceanography.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Conservation Research: Conducts scientific research on marine species and ecosystems.
- Educational Programs: Offers school field trips, workshops, and lectures.
- Ocean Conservation Institute: Promotes ocean literacy and conservation efforts.
Aquarium of the Pacific
- Marine Mammal Care Center: Provides rehabilitation and care for injured marine mammals.
- Educational Exhibits: Features interactive displays and educational resources.
- Conservation Initiatives: Supports research and conservation projects around the world.
Visitor Experience
Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Expansive Exhibits: Provides ample space to explore the diverse marine life.
- Stunning Views: Offers panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
- Crowded at Peak Times: Can be busy during popular hours.
Aquarium of the Pacific
- Compact Layout: Exhibits are well-organized and easy to navigate.
- Interactive Experiences: Includes touch tanks and hands-on displays.
- Less Crowded: Generally has fewer crowds compared to Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Cost and Location
Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Admission: $49.95 for adults, $34.95 for children
- Location: Monterey, California
Aquarium of the Pacific
- Admission: $29.95 for adults, $17.95 for children
- Location: Long Beach, California
In a nutshell: Which Aquarium Is Right for You?
Both Monterey Bay Aquarium and Aquarium of the Pacific offer exceptional experiences for visitors interested in marine life. While Monterey Bay Aquarium is larger and boasts a wider range of exhibits, Aquarium of the Pacific provides a more compact and interactive experience with fewer crowds. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your preferences and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which aquarium has the most sharks?
A: Monterey Bay Aquarium has a larger shark exhibit, including the Open Sea tank.
Q: Which aquarium is better for families with young children?
A: Aquarium of the Pacific offers more interactive experiences and a less crowded environment.
Q: Which aquarium has the best jellyfish exhibit?
A: Monterey Bay Aquarium‘s Jellies exhibit is renowned for its variety and visual appeal.
Q: Can I touch marine animals at either aquarium?
A: Aquarium of the Pacific has touch tanks where visitors can interact with certain marine creatures.
Q: Which aquarium has a better conservation program?
A: Both aquariums have strong conservation initiatives, but Monterey Bay Aquarium has a dedicated Ocean Conservation Institute.
