Free admission for Monterey County residents
When
This event has passed.
Ages
Fees
This September, in appreciation of our local community, we’re offering a limited number of free tickets to Monterey County residents. Thanks for your support throughout the years!
This event has passed.
Things you should know
Tickets
- Tickets are available for Monterey County residents only.
- Ticket inventory is limited and subject to availability.
- Tickets must be reserved online in advance.
- Guests of all ages must have a ticket.
- Limit of six tickets per transaction.
Entry time
Ticket holders can enter the Aquarium from 12–4 p.m. on the day of their reservation.
ID required
All guests age 18 and over must present a photo ID. If the photo ID does not include a Monterey County address, guests must also present one of the following proofs of residency (with a name matching the ID):
- Matricula Consular with Monterey County address
- Current student identification from any university or community college located within Monterey County
- Utility bill with Monterey County address
- Monthly bus pass for Monterey-Salinas Transit
- Document verifying your residence at a group home, such as a senior living center
Exchanges
These free admission tickets may not be exchanged for another date.
Frequently asked questions
What is happening?
September 2–14, 2025, the Aquarium is offering a limited number of free tickets for Monterey County residents.
Why is it happening?
In appreciation of over four decades of support from our local Monterey County community, we’re offering a limited number of free tickets in September for Monterey County residents.
Who is eligible for free tickets?
All Monterey County residents are eligible, but free tickets are limited, and online reservations are required.
Reservations are not required for Aquarium members or SNAP / CalFresh EBT cardholders.
All guests (including children under four) must have a ticket to enter.
Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Are other local communities eligible for this event?
No. This event is eligible for Monterey County residents only. We do offer other ways for eligible individuals and groups to visit the Aquarium for free.
How do I confirm my Monterey County residency?
When you arrive at the Aquarium, have your tickets printed or accessible on your mobile device.
At the Aquarium front entrance, all guests age 18 and over must present a photo ID. If the photo ID does not include a Monterey County address, guests must also present one of the following proofs of residency (with a name matching the ID):
- Matricula Consular with Monterey County address
- Current student identification from any university or community college located within Monterey County
- Utility bill with Monterey County address
- Monthly bus pass for Monterey-Salinas Transit
- Document verifying your residence at a group home, such as a senior living center
Does every adult in my group need to show ID and proof of residency, or just the person who made the reservation?
All adults ages 18 and over must show ID and proof of Monterey County residency, along with their tickets, for free admission.
What if I can’t prove my residency?
If you are age 18 or over, we need to verify your residency in order to provide you with free admission. People who do not bring proof of residency will be asked to purchase a ticket.
If I live in Monterey County and make a reservation, can I bring someone not from Monterey County with me?
Not for free. Guests who reside outside of Monterey County are welcome to join you with a paid ticket. They are not eligible for free tickets.
When will tickets be available?
For 2025, tickets for admission from September 2–14 will be available for reservation starting on August 12 at 7 a.m.
How do I reserve tickets?
Starting August 12, Monterey County residents can reserve tickets online.
How many tickets can I reserve?
Monterey County residents can reserve up to 6 tickets total per transaction.
Do kids ages 4 and under need tickets? Do they count toward the limit of 6 tickets per transaction for free admission?
Yes, children ages 4 and under need tickets. Yes, they count toward the 6-ticket maximum per transaction.
What if free tickets are sold out online for the date I want?
If free tickets are sold out on the day you want to visit, you can either purchase a regular-priced ticket for that day, or reserve free tickets for a different day.
When are these tickets valid?
During September 2–14, these special tickets allow Monterey County residents to enter the Aquarium from 12–4 p.m. on the day of their reservation.
Can I cancel the tickets after I make a reservation?
No. These free admission tickets cannot be canceled.
Can I change the dates of my reservation?
These free admission tickets cannot be exchanged. If you need to change your reservation dates, please do another transaction. Free tickets are subject to availability.
What if I have more questions?
If you still have questions, please call us at 831.648.4800, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Sunday.
Is there a limit on the number of free admission tickets available?
Yes, there is a limit on the number of free tickets made available each day to allow us to manage attendance and ensure that all visitors have a safe and enjoyable day at the Aquarium.
These free tickets will be available online on a first-come, first-served basis.