The Monterey Bay Aquarium sits on Cannery Row in Monterey, California

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located at 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, California 93940. It occupies a restored sardine cannery building on the waterfront, about 120 miles south of San Francisco and 60 miles north of Big Sur. The building itself is part of the attraction — the structure dates to 1916 and once processed fish; now it houses the aquarium's tanks, galleries, and visitor spaces.

Monterey is a coastal town on the central California coast. The aquarium's position on Cannery Row puts it within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and hotels. The waterfront location means you can see the Pacific Ocean from the building and from the parking areas nearby.

Key Takeaways

  • The aquarium's street address is 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, California 93940, in a historic building on the waterfront.
  • Monterey is about two hours south of San Francisco by car via Highway 1, and parking on Cannery Row fills quickly during peak season.
  • The nearest major airport is Monterey Regional Airport (about 10 miles away), though San Francisco International Airport offers more flight options.
  • Public transit to the aquarium is limited; most visitors drive or use ride-share services from nearby hotels and towns.

Driving directions from major cities

From San Francisco, take Highway 1 south toward Santa Cruz, then continue south on Highway 1 through Carmel toward Monterey. The drive takes roughly two hours depending on traffic and which part of San Francisco you start from. Highway 1 is scenic but can be slow, especially on weekends and during summer months.

From Los Angeles, take Highway 101 north toward San Luis Obispo, then connect to Highway 1 north toward Monterey. This route takes about five to six hours. Highway 1 between Big Sur and Carmel is particularly winding and narrow; allow extra time if you take this section.

From San Jose, take Highway 17 south toward Santa Cruz, then Highway 1 south to Monterey. This is roughly a 90-minute drive. Highway 17 can be congested during commute hours.

Parking at and near Cannery Row

The Monterey Bay Aquarium operates its own parking garage adjacent to the building. Parking fills during peak season (summer months and weekends), and rates vary by season. Arrive early in the day if you plan to park in the aquarium's garage, or look for street parking on Cannery Row itself, though spaces are limited and turnover is quick.

Several parking lots and garages operate nearby on Cannery Row and in downtown Monterey. Some hotels offer parking to guests; if you are staying overnight, ask whether parking is included. Ride-share services (Uber, Lyft) operate in Monterey and can drop you at the aquarium entrance, though prices vary by demand and time of day.

Flying to Monterey

Monterey Regional Airport (airport code: MRY) is the closest airport, about 10 miles from the aquarium. Several airlines operate flights there, though the airport is smaller than major hubs and may have fewer direct flight options depending on where you are traveling from. The drive from Monterey Regional Airport to the aquarium takes about 20 minutes.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a larger hub with more flight options and often lower fares. It is about 120 miles from the aquarium — roughly a two-hour drive. San Jose International Airport (SJC) is another option, about 90 miles away and roughly 90 minutes by car. Both airports have car rental services and ride-share options.

Public transit and alternative transportation

Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) operates bus service in the Monterey area, including routes that serve Cannery Row. Service is limited compared to larger cities, and buses run less frequently on weekends and evenings. Check the MST website for current routes and schedules before you travel.

If you are staying in downtown Monterey or nearby towns like Pacific Grove or Carmel, walking or biking to the aquarium may be possible depending on your starting point. Cannery Row itself has a paved path along the waterfront that connects to nearby neighborhoods. Bike rentals are available in Monterey if you want to cycle to the aquarium.

What to know about the location and surroundings

Cannery Row is a busy tourist area, especially during summer and on weekends. The street has restaurants, shops, and other attractions within walking distance of the aquarium. The waterfront location means weather can be cool and windy even when inland areas are warm; bring a jacket.

The aquarium building itself is right on the water, and sea otters and seals often appear in the kelp forest and rocks just offshore. The location is part of what makes the aquarium distinctive — you are watching marine life in a building that overlooks their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest airport to the Monterey Bay Aquarium?

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is the closest, about 10 miles away and a 20-minute drive. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and San Jose International Airport (SJC) are larger hubs with more flight options, though they are farther away — roughly two hours and 90 minutes respectively.

Can I take public transit to the aquarium?

Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) operates bus routes that serve Cannery Row, but service is limited and runs less frequently than in larger cities. Most visitors drive or use ride-share services. Check the MST website for current schedules before you travel.

Is there parking at the aquarium?

Yes, the aquarium operates a parking garage adjacent to the building. Parking fills quickly during peak season (summer and weekends), so arrive early. Street parking on Cannery Row is also available but limited. Rates vary by season.

How far is the aquarium from San Francisco?

The aquarium is about 120 miles south of San Francisco, roughly a two-hour drive via Highway 1. Highway 1 is scenic but can be slow, especially on weekends and during summer months.

What should I bring for the weather?

Monterey's waterfront location means it is often cool and windy, even when inland areas are warm. Bring a light jacket or sweater, especially if you plan to spend time on the outdoor decks or walking along Cannery Row.