Monterey Bay's coast is renowned for having the highest number of species of marine mammals compared to any other coastal region in the U.S. This rich diversity is largely due to the bay’s unique combination of deep waters, nutrient-rich upwelling, and diverse habitats, which attract a wide variety of marine mammals. Species such as sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, humpback whales, gray whales, and dolphins are commonly found in the bay.

Monterey Bay was not formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago. Instead, the bay's current coastal landscape was shaped primarily by tectonic activity, erosion, and the movement of Earth's crust. Over millions of years, the shifting of tectonic plates caused the land to sink and create the bay's unique geological features. Additionally, the forces of water, wind, and time have played a significant role in shaping the coastline and deep underwater features like the Monterey Submarine Canyon.

The deep waters of Monterey Bay are home to several fascinating bioluminescent species, including the vampire squid (Vampyroteuthis infernalis), a species of squid capable of producing its own light. This natural phenomenon, known as bioluminescence, is used by the squid for various purposes, such as camouflage, attracting prey, or communicating with others. The dark depths of Monterey Bay, where sunlight does not penetrate, provide the perfect environment for these glowing creatures.

Monterey Bay is not the only location in the world where the endangered black-footed albatross breeds. While the bay is an important stopover for these majestic seabirds during their migratory journeys, the primary breeding grounds for the black-footed albatross are located on the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. These islands provide the ideal nesting sites for the species, which is known for its long wingspan and remarkable ability to travel vast distances across the Pacific Ocean. Despite not being the sole breeding location, Monterey Bay remains an important area for the conservation and study of these and other seabirds.

Monterey Bay’s waters are unique due to a deep upwelling that brings nutrient-rich waters from the deep ocean to the surface. This process occurs when wind patterns push surface waters away from the coast, allowing deeper, colder water to rise and replace it. These upwelled waters are rich in nutrients like phytoplankton, which serve as the foundation of the marine food chain. As a result, Monterey Bay supports a highly productive and diverse ecosystem, including abundant populations of fish, marine mammals, seabirds, and invertebrates.

Monterey Bay's kelp forests are among the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on Earth, but they are not primarily composed of seagrasses. Instead, they are mainly made up of giant kelp, a type of brown algae. These forests form dense underwater canopies that provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for a wide range of marine species, including fish, invertebrates, and marine mammals. The kelp itself grows rapidly, reaching up to 2 feet per day in optimal conditions, and plays a critical role in supporting the region's marine life by offering a thriving, complex habitat.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium works closely with local fishermen to promote sustainable fishing practices that help protect marine ecosystems and ensure the long-term viability of fish populations. By collaborating with the fishing community, the aquarium supports the use of environmentally responsible methods that minimize bycatch and reduce damage to habitats. Through initiatives like the Seafood Watch program, the aquarium provides guidance on choosing sustainably sourced seafood and educates consumers and businesses on making eco-friendly choices. This partnership helps create a balance between preserving marine resources and supporting the livelihoods of local fishermen, while fostering a healthier ocean environment.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a leading advocate in the fight against plastic pollution in the ocean. Through its innovative exhibits and educational programs, the aquarium raises awareness about the devastating impact of plastic waste on marine life and ecosystems. It highlights how plastics break down into microplastics, which are ingested by marine creatures, affecting their health and the entire food chain. The aquarium also leads by example, promoting sustainable practices within its own operations and encouraging visitors to reduce plastic use. In addition, it actively participates in global conservation initiatives, working with partners to push for policies aimed at reducing plastic waste and protecting ocean health for future generations.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a variety of interactive programs designed to engage children and families in the wonders of marine life. These hands-on experiences allow young visitors to explore the ocean in fun and educational ways. Programs like touch pools, where kids can feel sea stars and sea urchins, and live animal encounters, give families the opportunity to learn about marine creatures up close. The aquarium also offers guided tours, craft activities, and educational workshops that explore marine conservation and ocean science.

While the Monterey Bay Aquarium is renowned for showcasing the rich marine life of California’s coastal waters, it also focuses on educating visitors about ocean ecosystems beyond the state’s shores. Through exhibits and research, the aquarium highlights the diverse marine species found in other parts of the world, including deep-sea creatures, tropical fish, and migratory animals like sea turtles and sharks. Its exhibits on open-ocean environments, coral reefs, and polar seas provide a broader understanding of the interconnectedness of the world's oceans.

The Monterey Submarine Canyon is one of the largest and deepest underwater canyons in the world, and it’s even larger than the Grand Canyon when measured from its base to the ocean floor. This massive geological feature plunges more than 10,000 feet below the ocean surface, creating a dramatic underwater landscape that is teeming with life.

Sea otters play a crucial role in maintaining the health of Monterey Bay’s kelp forests, one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth. As natural predators of sea urchins, which graze on kelp, sea otters help control the urchin population and prevent overgrazing. Without sea otters, urchin populations can explode, leading to the destruction of kelp forests. By keeping urchins in check, otters allow kelp to thrive, providing shelter and food for a variety of marine species.