Monterey Bay AquariumvsPoint Lobos
Both are highly recommended by professional reviewers writing for major publications. Overall, Monterey Bay Aquarium scores significantly better than Point Lobos. Monterey Bay Aquarium is ranked #1 in Central California Coast with recommendations from 7 reviewers including Afar Magazine, Travel + Leisure and Lonely Planet.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Frommer's
Michelin Guide
Travel + Leisure
Lonely Planet
Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
Where
Atlas Obscura Afar Magazine
886 Cannery Row at David Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940
From $0/night
Frommer's "Ranked one of the nation's top family attractions, Monterey's aquarium draws nearly two million visitors a year." Full review
i
Tip: Avoid lines at the gate by ordering tickets in advance by calling tel.
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"It features more than 250,000 animals and plants of nearly 550 species, representing the full spectrum of Monterey Bay habitats from coastal wetlands and tide pools to deep sea." Full review
Travel + Leisure "Start, of course, with the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Its Splash Zone, an interactive exhibit for kids, recently doubled in size—now you can walk “through” a giant kelp forest." Full review
Lonely PlanetTop choice
"Monterey’s most mesmerizing experience is its enormous aquarium, built on the former site of the city’s largest sardine cannery." Full review
i
To avoid long lines in summer and on weekends and holidays, buy tickets in advance.
Afar Magazine "The Monterey Bay Aquariums is arguably one of the best aquariums in the country." Full review
Afar Magazine "Fun and educational but crowded." Full review
Where "In a gorgeous seaside location, this world-class, nonprofit, family-friendly aquarium focuses on the conservation of the oceans." Full review
Atlas Obscura "One of the most elaborate displays of Jellyfish is on display at the aquarium. " Full review
Afar Magazine "When you stand on the Monterey bluffs and look at the bay, the vast expanse of marine protected areas may inspire you to learn more about conservation of the ocean and its creatures." Full review
Point Lobos Michelin Guide Lonely Planet Afar Magazine Afar Magazine Afar Magazine Afar Magazine Michelin Guide
Route 1, Box 62, Carmel, CA 93923
From $0/night
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"This small but dramatic peninsula defines the southern end of Carmel Bay." Full review
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"The full perimeter hike is 6 miles, but shorter walks take in wild scenery too, including Bird Island, shady cypress groves, the historical Whaler’s Cabin and the Devil’s Cauldron." Full review
Afar Magazine "I've been all over the California coast and Point Lobos is my favorite place to hike." Full review
Afar Magazine "If you're taking a trip down the Pacific Coast Highway, make sure to stop at Point Lobos just outside of Carmel." Full review
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If you're taking a trip down the Pacific Coast Highway, make sure to stop at Point Lobos just outside of Carmel.
Afar Magazine "This state natural reserve is a perfect highlight of Northern California's coast." Full review
Afar Magazine "A beautiful day on the Central Coast along Hwy 1 - seemed like a beautiful omen for the new year." Full review
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"By the coastal road, Point Lobos peninsula is named after the resident sealions, whose barking reminded the Spanish explorers of the howling of wolves (lobos)." Full review
