888-745-6343

Now’s the Time to Reserve your Room for Whale Fest!

Date & Time

April 13 & 14, 2024

The Monterey Whale Fest offers an unprecedented opportunity to learn about the whales that visit our Monterey Bay year-round. There are educational booths, fun events, music, and food for the whole family.

In the event founder’s own words:

Why: Beyond the family-friendly activities, Whalefest Monterey carries a deeper mission. The event supports local and national marine organizations dedicated to educating, inspiring, and empowering the public to protect the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS)

More Information: Whalefest Monterey is an “edutaining” free family-friendly event that includes fun and educational activities for all ages, musicians, and dozens of fascinating marine-related interactive exhibits by numerous local and national organizations. In addition, there will be several research and rescue boats available for public tours.

The event supports marine organizations dedicated to educating the public about the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS).

New this year: The Symposium with marine research and environment-conscious experts will move to the Stanton Center on Sunday, April 14th. We welcome Dan Haifley from the Board of Directors for the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Foundation and former Director of the Sea Odyssey of Santa Cruz as our MC for the Symposium. Interactive marine-themed exhibits will be available on Saturday, April 13th. Live music and activities like Gyotaku, Scrimshaw, and the “almost famous” Abalone Races will be featured on both April 13th and 14th on Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

According to Mary Alice Cerrito Fettis, Director of Whalefest Monterey, “We are excited to provide attendees with the opportunity to delve into all the exhibits on Saturday and subsequently engage in the Symposium on Sunday this year! This ensures that participants can experience the full spectrum of the event, all while enjoying the exceptional live music by local musicians and participating in special activities on both days.”

Whalefest Monterey isn’t just an event; it’s an immersive experience for families. Dive into a sea of knowledge with educational activities catering to all ages. Enjoy the fun of an array of live music and dance. Explore marine-related interactive exhibits presented by both local and national organizations. Take an up-close look at research and rescue boats, open for public tours, creating an engaging atmosphere for all attendees for both days. Learn cutting-edge information from a variety of marine experts.

Last year, “Save the Whales brought “Dee”, a 43 ft inflatable model of a humpback whale” along for people of all ages to enter and examine her organs.” There are sure to be more surprises this April!
Whalefest Monterey offers a rare opportunity to visit active marine research vessels.
The 14th Annual Whalefest Monterey will feature activities, including a Symposium with world-renowned marine experts and stunning photography, ocean, and environment-related exhibits, live music and more on Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14, 2024, from 10 am – 5 pm.
Enjoy over three dozen exhibits by non-profits offered many opportunities to learn more about the oceans in general, and Monterey Bay in particular, including all its inhabitants.
Almost-world-famous abalone races!
As always, you can also visit the shops, restaurants, galleries, museums, golf courses, and cafes in Pacific Grove, Carmel, Pebble Beach, Seaside, Salinas, and Monterey. This is the perfect escape!

Bring your family! Bring your friends. Enjoy our sanctuary by the bay,

The Olympia Lodge
1140 Lighthouse Avenue
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
(831)373-2777
TheOlympiaLodge.com
PS: You can spot humpback whales in Monterey Bay almost any time of year, but they’re most prevalent in the summer and fall. So this month is also a great time to go out on a whale-watching boat. Whether you take to the waters or enjoy the view from our cliffs, we can’t wait to provide you with a cozy retreat during your visit to The Olympia Lodge.