Fun Toddler Exploration- Monterey Bay Aquarium

We visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium recently and believe me when I say this is an amazing place for toddler exploration!

Although our whole family had a blast, our little Juliana was in dreamland with all of the colorful sights and sounds. Take a look at the highlights from our trip, mostly through Juliana’s eyes.

If you have a toddler and are visiting, leave the stroller behind, or at the entrance. Also plan on spending some time here because there is lots to see and experience.

I would try to go after naptime or long before, although that didn’t happen for us. By the time we left Juliana was VERY ready for that long awaited nap.

The touch pools were definitely a highlight of our visit. They are very toddler friendly because they have toddler height touch pools and friendly staff to talk with you and your toddler about the things inside!

Plenty of tunnels and play areas to explore along the way. Keep a close eye on your toddler though, it was very busy when we went!

We stopped by the toddler area in the Splash Zone while dad and brother explored. That kept Juliana entertained for quite some time.

Oooh so many interesting creatures to look at!

But, wait! It’s not just fun for toddlers. Jonas (big brother) had a blast too! I think they were both pretty impressed with the jellyfish and giant octopus.

This little trip was a blast and I can’t wait to take my kids again. In the 4 hours we were there I still feel like there was more we could have done and seen. I would like to try to go back in the middle of the week when it’s less busy so we could really take everything in.

What would you most like to see at the Monterey Bay Aquarium? Have you already been? What are your tips for visiting? I would love to hear from you in the comments below!