Event Guidelines

Admission includes private use of the facility; all event coordination; and custodial, security and on-site event staff. An aquarium event ambassador will greet your group and take an accurate guest count at the entrance. Aquarium admission charges and the food & beverage rates will be based on the final guarantee number or the actual number in attendance, whichever is greater.

We provide an event coordinator, event ambassador, banquet manager and security staff for all events. The event coordinator will assist you with details regarding venue, menu planning, logistics, guest entry, music, decorations and special interpretive programs.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium requires that all food and beverages for private events be catered by our contracted provider, Bon Appétit. We are not able to allow individuals or groups to bring food and beverage into the aquarium.

Food and beverage prices include set-up of house tables, china and linens. Please add a 20% service charge plus current California sales tax to the menu prices. Prices are subject to change. We guarantee pricing 90 days prior to the event.

Menu selection should take place at least two months prior to your event date. To ensure the best quality, we ask that you choose one menu option for your entire group. However, substitutions due to dietary restrictions can always be arranged.

A final guarantee of the number of guests is due by 12 noon, 3 working days prior to your event. We automatically prepare food for 5% more guests than your final guarantee, up to 1,000 people. For groups larger than 1,000, we will prepare food for 3% over your final guarantee. You will be charged for food and beverages according to the final guarantee number or the actual number in attendance, whichever is greater.

Placement of food and beverage stations in the aquarium is based on lighting availability, exhibit restrictions and fire code requirements. Your event coordinator will develop a floor plan that fits your needs and follows the aquarium guidelines.

The aquarium requires an initial payment for admission charges. A second payment of 100% of all estimated costs is due 30 days prior to the event. The balance of all charges is due after the event, net 30 days.

Should a corporate event be cancelled six months prior to your reserved date, 50% of your payment will be refunded. There is no refund on admission fees for events cancelled less than six months before the reserved date.

We can arrange for decorations, floral centerpieces and special linen rental. All decor and vendors must be approved in advance by the aquarium's coordination staff (handling fees may apply).

Because of the sensitivity of our exhibits and the environment, no confetti, sand, live fish, sea shells or dried marine life, glitter, rice, bird seed, adhesive tape, monofilament line or mylar ribbon are allowed in the aquarium.

We require that nothing be posted, nailed, screwed or otherwise attached to the walls, floors, exhibit graphics or other parts of the buildings, furnishings or surroundings.

All decorations, promotional materials, supplies, rental equipment, etc., must be removed immediately following the event. The aquarium is not responsible for any materials or equipment left behind.

Your event coordinator can assist you with a wide variety of entertainment options including magicians, casino tables, live bands and more. The aquarium must approve all entertainment selections in advance.

All band and entertainment personnel must meet with an aquarium event coordinator to review their electrical, lighting and other requirements at least two weeks before the event.

Any amplified music may be subject to volume control at the discretion of the event coordinator or security staff for the health of the animals.

An event coordinator can arrange for all audio-visual needs. Please note: there is a charge for the use of aquarium audio-visual equipment, based on your needs. Technicians are required for all extensive set-ups at an extra cost.

Wireless internet is available throughout the Aquarium at no additional charge.

All outside vendors must meet with an event coordinator no later than two weeks before the event, to coordinate delivery times, set-up locations, pick-up schedules, etc. Scheduled deliveries may be made the day of the event only, as the aquarium has limited storage facilities. Please note that all décor and decorations must be pre-approved by the aquarium's catering department. Guests are not allowed to bring their own décor or decorations into the aquarium.

Aquarium security personnel will be on-site during your event. In case of an emergency, call security at (831) 648-4840 to reach your group on the night of the event.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium does not assume responsibility for the damage or loss of any merchandise or articles brought into the aquarium, or for any item left unattended.

The sea otter and aviary exhibits are closed at dusk because of the sensitivity of the animals. Aquarium exhibits are subject to change or repair without notice. An event coordinator will apprise you of any changes in the exhibits prior to your event. Aquarium exhibit graphics must remain lit during events.

Parking is available on streets near the aquarium and at several nearby municipal lots. Visit our online Maps & Directions page for parking information or contact event sales to coordinate the bus transportation for your event.