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Locals Only

To show appreciation for our local community, we offer a variety of special promotions to residents of Monterey, San Benito and Santa Cruz counties (valid identification required). All offers are valid on site only. Guests of local tri-county residents must pay regular admission prices.

Evenings by the Bay at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Community Open House

  • Dec. 7–15 (Sat.–Sun.)
  • 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tri-county residents enjoy free admission during our annual Community Open House. Visitors must present a photo ID with a local address. Current student IDs from the tri-county area or proof of residence (such as a current utility bill) along with a matching photo ID, will be accepted at the Main Entrance. Bilingual programs will be offered both weekends.

Los residentes del condado de Monterey, Santa Cruz y San Benito pueden disfrutar de admisión gratuita durante nuestra semana comunitaria. Muestra tu identificación con residencia actual. Matricula consular o identificación estudiantil de cualquier universidad o colegio dentro de los tres condados o factura de servicios con una identificación que coincida con la misma residencia será aceptado en la entrada principal. Estaremos ofreciendo programas bilingües ambos fines de semana.

Visitors taking a photo of a sea otter

Membership Extra

Aquarium members enjoy free admission and other benefits all year long. Join during any of the above Locals Only days and receive an extra two months on an annual membership. Visit the Membership and Tours Center for more information and to become a member.

Past Events

Deck program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Summer Sundays

  • June 30–Sept. 1 (Sundays)
  • 2–6 p.m.
We invite locals to spend Sunday afternoons with us. Arrive at 2 p.m. or later and save $10 on each general admission. You can enjoy summer programs like the historical "Turning the Tide," presented at our Great Tide Pool, plus all the rest the Aquarium has to offer, until closing at 6 p.m.
Chef Matt serving small bites at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Evenings by the Bay

  • June 29–Aug. 31 (Saturdays)
  • 6–8 p.m.
Linger later on Saturday nights this summer and enjoy reduced admission prices, live music and amazing food! Join us from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturdays between June 29 and August 31. Locals pay special admission prices of $25 per adult (including seniors and students) and $15 per child after 6 p.m. Visitors must present a photo ID (student IDs also accepted) or proof of residence, such as a current utility bill, at the Main Entrance.
Event at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

An Ocean of Opportunity

  • Feb. 4 (Mon.)
  • 6–10 p.m.

Attention college students and young professionals! Join us for this exclusive event and enjoy food, wine and select exhibits while learning about conservation issues. Network with other young adults who want to get involved with the Aquarium. Tickets are $25 for general public, $20 for members. Advance tickets are required and space is limited. Ages 18 and up.