Monterey Bay Aquarium Travel Guide | California Travel Tips

California travel journalist Veronica Hill shares her Monterey Bay Aquarium Travel Guide in this episode of California Travel Tips.

Almost 2 million people visit Monterey Bay Aquarium in Cannery Row every year, making it one of California's most popular attractions. From the moment you step inside this former sardine cannery, you'll be hypnotized by the pulsating jellyfish, swaying kelp beds and colorful ocean fish.

More than 623 marine species are on display, so allow at least 3 hours to fully enjoy the aquarium's galleries, touch pools and exhibits. Highlights at Monterey Bay Aquarium include the giant Pacific octopus, playful sea otters and a new Magellanic penguin exhibit. At lunchtime, enjoy a picnic on the deck overlooking Monterey Bay, or grab a sandwich and glass of wine at the aquarium's Restaurant and Cafe. In March, the restaurant will debut a new farm-to-table menu from celebrity chef Cindy Pawlcyn. The outer deck opens up to Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, home to the nation's largest kelp forest and one of the world's most diverse marine ecosystems.

The Open Sea exhibit boasts a $19 million tank focusing on Pacific ocean animal migrations.Tips: Throngs of visitors flood the aquarium daily, so if you want to avoid the crowds, visit during fall and winter, or between 2 and 6 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays in the summer. Check their website for special offers or promotions.

Photography Advice: Turn off your flash and set your camera's ISO to 400 or higher. This allows you to capture the quick movement of the fish and adjusts the camera for lower light conditions without a flash. Using a flash causes a reflection on the glass, and ruins any chance of a good photo. It's also wise to place your camera's lens directly on the glass, ensuring a crisp view of the colorful fish inside.

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