Monterey Bay Audio Tour

Download our free tour and explore!

Download our audio tour and join us for a walk along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, starting just outside the Aquarium. Our Director of Interpretive Programs, Jim Covel, gives you an insider’s view of the rich natural and human history of this spectacular section of the bay. The complete half-mile walking tour (all six segments) takes about half an hour.

See a map of the route. PDF

1. Introduction
This walking tour begins at the main entrance to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and heads south along the “Rec Trail.”

1.1 min | Download (right click on link to save file)

2. Rec Trail
Learn the colorful history of the "Rec Trail" (the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail), which runs from Marina to Pacific Grove.

2.5 min | Download (right click on link to save file)

3. Oceanview and Eardley
Journey back in time and hear stories about the Chinese fishing village that was once located here. You’ll also learn about the Tuna Research and Conservation Center and the American Tin Cannery.

4.5 min | Download (right click on link to save file)

4. Monterey Boat Works
Hear about this historic site where commercial fishing boats were built and repaired, and bootleggers landed during prohibition. You’ll also learn about the Monterey Clipper hull and the history of the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s smokestacks.

4.3 min | Download (right click on link to save file)

5. Hopkins Marine Sanctuary
Learn the history of the oldest marine science lab on the Pacific coast, where valuable information about Monterey Bay’s marine life has been collected for over 100 years. Local author John Steinbeck even studied here, developing an intense interest in marine sciences.

3.4 min | Download (right click on link to save file)

6. Pocket Beach
Learn about the wildlife that frequents this location: harbor seals and their pups; elephant seals; whales; and even local deer and Canada geese. Keep your eyes open!

4.4 min | Download (right click on link to save file)

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Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Get an insider’s view of the Aquarium! Interact with our staff, discover the hidden life of animals and learn about our ocean research.

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