The Monterey Bay is home to one of the largest marine sanctuaries in the world. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary encompasses 6,094 square miles of ocean surrounding the Monterey Bay and stretches up to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and south to the coastal town of Cambria. It is home to many mammals, birds, fish, and plants making it one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.
One particular inhabitant of the Marine sanctuary is the sea otter, the second smallest marine mammal. These furry creatures help support the ecosystem by feeding on sea urchins that may live and feed off the kelp forests along shore. Since the kelp is so vital in providing nutrients and protection to other sea life, the sea otters play a huge role in maintaining the kelp ecosystem, in turn making them vital to our ocean.
In light of Sea Otter Awareness week, check out our Monterey Bay Aquarium packages at our hotels to book your next stay in Monterey and see these adorable mammals for yourself! Plus, learn how you can make the most of your next trip to the aquarium here.