Monterey Bay Aquarium Vs Aquarium Of The Pacific
Introduction
The Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific are two of the most popular and well-known aquariums in California. Both of these aquariums are home to a wide variety of marine life and offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about the ocean and its inhabitants. In this article, we will compare and contrast the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific, highlighting their similarities and differences.
Location
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located in Monterey, California, and is situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. The Aquarium of the Pacific is located in Long Beach, California, and is also located near the Pacific Ocean. Both aquariums offer stunning views of the ocean and are located in beautiful coastal cities.
Exhibits
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is home to over 35,000 animals and 550 species. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Kelp Forest, the Open Sea exhibit, and the Sea Otter exhibit. The Aquarium of the Pacific is home to over 11,000 animals and 500 species, including sharks, sea lions, and penguins. Some of the most popular exhibits at the Aquarium of the Pacific include the Tropical Reef Habitat, the Shark Lagoon, and the Sea Otter Habitat.
Interactive Experiences
Both aquariums offer a variety of interactive experiences for visitors. The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers behind-the-scenes tours, sleepovers, and even a chance to scuba dive in the Kelp Forest exhibit. The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a touch tank, where visitors can touch and interact with sea creatures, as well as a chance to go on a whale watching tour.
Conservation Efforts
Both aquariums are committed to conservation efforts and educating the public about the importance of protecting the ocean and its inhabitants. The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a Seafood Watch program, which helps consumers make sustainable seafood choices, and is also involved in research and conservation efforts to protect marine life. The Aquarium of the Pacific has an Animal Rescue program, which rescues and rehabilitates sick and injured sea animals, and also offers educational programs and exhibits about conservation.
Admission Prices
The admission prices for the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific are similar, with adult admission prices ranging from $30-$35. However, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a discount for students, while the Aquarium of the Pacific offers a discount for military personnel.
Conclusion
Both the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about the ocean and its inhabitants. While there are some differences between the two aquariums, such as the number of animals and exhibits, both are committed to conservation efforts and providing visitors with an interactive and educational experience. Whether you are visiting Monterey or Long Beach, a trip to one of these aquariums is a must-see attraction.
