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The Monterey Bay Aquarium (or MBA, founded 1984) is located on the site of a former sardine cannery on Cannery Row on the Pacific Ocean shoreline in Monterey, California. It has an annual attendance of 1.8 million and holds 35,000 plants and animals representing 623 species. The aquarium benefits by a high circulation of ocean water which is obtained through pipes which pump it in from Monterey Bay.

Among the aquarium's numerous exhibits, two are of particular note: The centerpiece of the Ocean's Edge Wing is a 10 meter (33-foot) high 1.3 million liter (1/3 million gallon) tank for viewing California coastal marine life. In this tank, the aquarium was the first in the world to grow live California Giant Kelp using a wave machine at the top of the tank (water movement is a necessary precondition for keeping Giant Kelp, which absorbs nutrients from surrounding water and requires turbidity), allowing sunlight in through the open tank top, and circulation of raw seawater from the Bay. The second exhibit of note is a 4.5 million liter (1.2 million gallon) tank in the Outer Bay Wing which features one of the world's largest single-paned windows (crafted by a Japanese company, the window is actually five panes seamlessly glued together through a proprietary process).[1]

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10 meter giant kelp forest aquariumSealife on exhibit includes stingrays, jellyfish, sea otters, an 11 lb. lobster over 50 years old, and numerous other native marine species, which can be viewed above and below the waterline. For displaying jellyfish, the MBA uses an aquarium called a Kreisel tank which creates a circular flow to support and suspend the jellies. Visitors are able to inspect the creatures of the kelp forest at several levels in the building. The aquarium does not house mammals other than otters.

Sourced from:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monterey_Bay_Aquarium

Hearst Castle | Monterey | Big Sur | Pebble Beach

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In 3 days, experience Coastal California's breath-taking scenery, incredible attractions and secret spots only your trip leaders know about!

- See the World Famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Hearst Castle at your own pace

- Experience your California Coastal Trip with fun and knowledgeable leaders

- Visit local hotspots

- Get a taste of Coastal California Culture

- Prepare yourself for a memorable California Experience!

California Coastal Tour

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Prepare yourself to make memories that will last a lifetime as you travel down the scenic California Coast!

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Copyright © 2010 Explore California Travel, LLC. *This is a limited time offer, prices are subject to change. Please check the “Packages” section for our lateste prices and schedule. Explore California operates fully insured PUC/TCP-licensed vehicles. Tour prices include two nights lodging and two breakfasts. We are not responsible for loss or damage of personal property on tours. We are not responsible for delays due to accidents, breakdowns, or adverse traffic and weather conditions on tours. We reserve the right to modify stops, vehicle, visits or activities based on weather conditions, group needs or conditions out of our control. Cancellations or changes must be made 72 hrs before trip departure to get partial refund, or at least 8 days in advance if the reservation includes hotel accommodation. Cancellations and changes are subject to a 10% or $40 fee, whichever is greater.