Monterey Bay Aquarium Shelf to Shore Program was created for families who otherwise cannot afford to visit the Aquarium.

Eligible adults (18 years of age and older) can receive one free pass to the Aquarium per program year from the Monterey or Pacific Grove Public Library. One pass admits up to six (6) family members for a one-time visit.

Passes are available in the Fall (September through November 30, 2022) and in the late Winter/early Spring (January through April 30, 2023). Note that you can only receive 1 pass per program year (September 2022 through April 2023).

For free admission to the Aquarium, you must present the ticket with your matching library card and a photo ID at the Aquarium's Main Entrance. Please check the Aquarium's website for up-to-date Covid-19 requirements.

Who is Eligible?

You can get a Shelf to Shore Aquarium pass if you:

1. Are 18 years old or older.
2. Are a resident of the City of Monterey or the City of Pacific Grove.
3. Have a valid Monterey or Pacific Grove Public Library card.
4. Qualify for Free School Lunch, WIC, CalFresh, SNAP, Meals on Wheels, Medi-Cal, Healthy Families, Healthy Kids, Section 8 or subsidized housing, or other similar services.

How Do I Get a Pass?

Bring your library card to the Library and request an aquarium Shelf to Shore pass from the Library Help Desk. Each pass admits up to six family members for a visit. You can get one pass per program year (September through April) per adult library card holder.

When can I Use the Shelf to Shore Pass?

The Shelf to Shore program runs from September through April.
Currently, a pass is valid from January 9, 2023 through April 30, 2023 and cannot be used on the following dates:

• January 14-16, 2023
• January 21-29, 2023
• February 18-20, 2023
• March 31, 2023
• April 1-16, 2023