How long would you allow to visit the aquarium? We are planning to drive down from SF in the am and were wondering if the afternoon was adequate time to see everything. Also, how are the crowds and do you really need to buy your ticket in advance?

I would allow at least 3 hrs. We had young children with us and by the time we reached the floor with all of the children's exhibits (which is very cool even for adults) we had little time left before the aquarium closed. We could have spent an hour just up there.

We all really love the ocean though, so we had no problem lingering and looking longer at things than most people might. But, we were disappointed that we didn't know how cool the children's floor was and that we didn't have more time for it. I think we were there a total of about 2.5 hrs. which was not enuf.

We visited in mid July a few years ago, and the crowds were tolerable, but definitely there. We didn't buy our tickets in advance. Probably depends on what time you arrive - at opening the ticket booth is probably crowded. We arrived in the early afternoon like it sounds as though you might and didn't have to wait more than 5-10 min. to purchase tickets - if I remember right.

It's really an awesome aquarium. We've been to many, and none compare to Monterey. Enjoy!!

We were there last summer on a weekday, it was a great place, but got very crowded the day we were there. I suggest getting there the moment it opens to try to see more things. Our daughter often could not see over the crowds of people and missed alot. Maybe go 15 minutes early and ask the employees what to see first that gets the most crowded later in the day. Have fun!

Getting there in the morning is best in order to beat the crowds. You could easily spend 4 hours or more at the aquarium. I would suggest staying one night in Monterey. It's really too far to do it as a daytrip from SF.

Actually we are staying overnight in Monterey. Do you think this will work: drive from SF in the am, go directly to the Aquarium (until closing if needed), dinner and walking around. Next day, 17 mile drive and abit more sightseeing before heading down the coast. Wanted to have lunch at Nepenthe.

The only problem with driving from SF in the morning on a weekday is that you will get caught in the morning commute traffic leaving SF for San Jose. Morning commute time is from 7-9 AM. If you leave SF say at 9:30 you should get to Monterey by 12:30. I would probably do 17 Mile Drive and walk around Carmel and drive along the coast on the first day and then see the aquarium the next morning.

Oh, by the way, the best route to Monterey from Sf is 280/17/1.

I did consider that option but then I would be getting away later for the drive down the coast (I think?). How long would the 17-mile drive take? How far is the drive to Nepenthe? And then to Cambria? We wanted a leisurely drive. The next morning we were planning Hearst Castle.

IMHO you could skip the 17-mile drive, especially since you're driving down the scenic coast. Lunch at Nepenthe is a good idea.