Mission:
To inspire conservation of the oceans by increasing public interest in and enjoyment of marine life in Monterey Bay and the surrounding areas and shoreline.

Background:
The aquarium stands on the site of what was Cannery Row's largest fish-packing plant, the Hovden Cannery. The property, which includes adjoining cannery and warehouse properties, was sold in 1978 to the Monterey Bay Aquarium Foundation after four marine biologists at Stanford University's Hopkins Marine Station proposed the aquarium. Funded in part by a one-time gift from the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, construction began in the spring of 1981 and the aquarium opened its doors on October 20, 1984.

Outstanding Web Features:
The aquarium's Web site offers live webcams of marine life in the aquarium's various exhibits, Aquarium of the Air podcasts, and videos related to ocean science and conservation. Visitors can also explore an online animal field guide; read Official Explorer online journals; learn more about scuba diving and snorkeling; send sea creature e-postcards; and have fun with print-and-do games and activities.