Visit a working marine laboratory. Exhibit halls, aquarium, touch tanks, tours to marine mammal research overlook, Ocean Discovery Shop, and unsurpassed vistas of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Hold a sea star - marvel at the world's largest whale skeleton — touch a shark - think like a scientist!
Tour Times
A limited number of tours are offered each day. Participant numbers per tour are limited. Tours are filled on a first come, first serve basis. Sign-up begins one hour before tour time.
Lab-wide tours depart 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM.
45-minute guided exploration.
Family tour departs 11 AM.
30-minute guided exploration for younger visitors or those with limited time.
Due to space availability and fairness to all of our drop-in guests, we cannot accommodate more than 9 people per single group on any given daily tour. Groups of 10 or more may call three weeks ahead to book their own, personalized Reserved Group Tour for a small additional fee.
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100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA
Sunday (10am - 5pm) , Tuesday - Saturday (10am - 5pm)
831.459.3800