Monterey Bay Aquarium


We visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of California’s most beloved ocean treasures. It first opened in 1984 and was home to the world’s first living kelp forest — which still sways gracefully in its giant tank like an underwater redwood grove. A leopard shark even paused long enough to pose for a photo, clearly proud of its modeling skills.

Underwater kelp forest scene with mysterious green lighting and swimming fish.
Leopard shark swimming through dense kelp forest illuminated by green-tinted sunlight.

Anchovies


Anchovies end up being the unexpected stars of the day. They swirl around in a cylindrical tank like a glittering silver cyclone, and all I can think about is the scene from Finding Nemo where the fish make shapes. (Yes, my brain is 50% movie references at all times.)


I learn something very relatable: when anchovies are hungry, they swim forward with their mouths open. Honestly? Same.

Dense school of silver fish swimming together in crystal clear blue ocean waters.

Various Creatures


We wander through the exhibits — puffers, shrimp, otters — all adorable in their own unique ways. But the jellyfish are the true showstoppers.

Black bird swimming underwater with orange beak visible beneath the surface.
Red crab perched on dark rocky surface in deep sea environment.
Sea otter floating on its back in rippling water.

Pacific Sea Nettle Jellyfish


They drift through the water like moving poetry, tentacles trailing behind them like silk ribbons. The lighting in the jellyfish galleries always feels cinematic — gentle, glowing, and perfect for photos. Maybe the tanks are flatter… or maybe the jellyfish just know how to work the spotlight better than anyone else. I could stand there and watch them dance forever.

Translucent jellyfish floating gracefully against deep blue ocean background.
Three orange and white jellyfish dancing through deep blue waters.
Pink spotted jellyfish with flowing tentacles against vibrant blue ocean background.

Penguins


By the time we reach the penguins, they’re having a full-on sleepy afternoon. Many are snoozing upright, staring into the abyss like tiny tuxedo-wearing philosophers. A quick Google detour confirms that penguins do have third eyelids — so yes, they were probably asleep with their eyes open.


Two penguins were… enjoying some private time. I’ll spare them the paparazzi moment, but let’s just say it provided some good laughs.

Penguins perched on rocky outcrops in their natural habitat.

Sandy Shore + Aviary Exhibit


The Sandy Shore + Aviary exhibit becomes one of my favorites — I love birds, and getting to see species like the delicate phalarope up close feels special. We also spot the western snowy plover, which immediately reminds me of the little bird from Pixar’s short film Piper.

(Technically, the Pixar bird is a sandpiper — but the vibe is the same: tiny, adorable, and full of personality.)


Another perfect ocean-side day — equal parts peaceful, funny, and full of wonder.

Black and white photograph of a seabird floating peacefully on reflective water.