Ready to talk about marine fauna in Monterey Bay?

There are so many delightful marine critters to see when you visit our sanctuary by the bay:

• Gray whales can be seen from December to May in Monterey, with peak sightings in mid-January, making it an excellent time for whale watching alongside dolphins and orcas.
• Southern sea otters, the smallest marine mammals in North America, thrive in Moss Landing Harbor and Elkhorn Slough. Unlike most marine mammals that use fat for warmth, sea otters rely on their dense fur, the thickest of any mammal. They can be spotted year-round.
• California sea lions are often the first marine mammals you’ll notice, basking on docks in Moss Landing Harbor and around Monterey Bay. Most encountered are males, weighing over 800 lbs, known for their intelligence and playful behavior.
• Pacific harbor seals are commonly found on sandbars in Monterey Bay. They can be white, gray, black, or dark brown with spots and are independent at just 4 weeks old. Unlike sea lions, they move on their bellies because they can’t rotate their hind flippers.
• Leatherback sea turtles, which migrate from Indonesia to feed on jellyfish, are rare sights in Monterey Bay, especially in the fall when their food is abundant. They can reach 8 feet long and weigh over 2,000 lbs but are highly endangered.
• Mola molas, the heaviest bony fish, can grow up to 10 feet long and 14 feet high, weighing over 5,000 lbs. They often lie on their sides at the surface to attract birds or to warm in the sun.
• Other marine life in the area includes harbor porpoises, sperm whales, fin whales, various species of sharks, and diverse local and migratory birds.

So, we’ll let the animals speak for themselves, but we hear them saying, “Come on over to the Monterey Bay for a visit, and stay at The Olympia Lodge while you’re at it, for the best time.”

The holidays can be so hurried! This is a gentle reminder that even you might need a break sometimes. So, remember, you can head over to The Olympia Lodge, breathe in some of our lovely ocean air, and listen to the gentle sound of the waves lapping the shore.

You may want to skip the organized events and go on a nice holiday shopping trip through the quaint streets of Pacific Grove. Or, you may want to treat yourself to a holiday meal in one of our culinary destinations. You might even need lodging for overflow guests, so we’re here for you and your guests!

Whatever reason brings you to our neck of the woods, you win because we have extended our exceptional deals on rooms (listed below) through the end of December. We’re here for you. AND ROOMS ARE JUST $99/EACH THROUGH DECEMBER 19TH!!

Use the coupon code SPECIAL99 when you check out.

I know you’re busy. But maybe you don’t need to be that busy.

Remember, you can skip the housework, making up guest beds, and cooking this holiday season. Instead, bring yourself and your loved ones for a relaxing getaway. Comfy rooms and friendly staff await you. And all this is just a short stroll from great dining and the spectacular Pacific Ocean.

Now’s the time to take advantage of this special: Any Room – Any Night – ONLY $99! Good through December 19th, 2024.

Use coupon code SPECIAL99 when you reserve at TheOlympiaLodge.com.

The holidays can be overwhelming. We get it. Don’t you think you need a break? We won’t tell a soul. Just head over to The Olympia Lodge, breathe in some of our lovely ocean air, and listen to the gentle sound of the waves lapping the shore.

Perhaps you want to skip the organized events and go on a nice holiday shopping trip through the quaint streets of Pacific Grove. Or, maybe you want to treat yourself to a holiday meal in one of our culinary destinations. You might even need lodging for overflow guests, so we’re here for you–and your guests–too!

Whatever reason brings you to our neck of the woods, you win because we have extended our exceptional deals on rooms (listed below) through the end of December. We’re here for you. AND ROOMS ARE JUST $99/EACH THROUGH DECEMBER 19TH!!

Use the coupon code SPECIAL99 when you check out.

The holidays can be overwhelming. We get it. Don’t you think you need a break? We won’t tell a soul. Just head over to The Olympia Lodge, breathe in some of our lovely ocean air, and listen to the gentle sound of the waves lapping the shore.

Perhaps you want to skip the organized events and go on a nice holiday shopping trip through the quaint streets of Pacific Grove. Or, maybe you want to treat yourself to a holiday meal in one of our culinary destinations. You might even need lodging for overflow guests, so we’re here for you–and your guests–too!

Whatever reason brings you to our neck of the woods, you win because we have extended our exceptional deals on rooms (listed below) through the end of December. We’re here for you. AND ROOMS ARE JUST $99/EACH THROUGH DECEMBER 19TH!!

Use the coupon code SPECIAL99 when you check out.

Location: Monterey Fairgrounds

The annual Monterey County Fair offers live music, family entertainment, and more. All performances are free with admission tickets.
Check out some of the events, such as farmers showing off their livestock and the Jr. Livestock Auction. There are also carnival rides and more fun for kids of all ages.

EXHIBITS include:

• Flowers: The Flowers exhibit at the Monterey County Fair showcases stunning floral arrangements and individual blooms, highlighting the creativity and horticultural skills of local gardeners.

• Woodworking: The Woodworking exhibit at the Monterey County Fair features expertly crafted pieces, from furniture to intricate carvings, showcasing the skill and creativity of local artisans.

• Wool: The Wool exhibit at the Monterey County Fair displays high-quality wool products, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in shearing, spinning, and weaving wool into beautiful textiles.

• Swine: The Swine exhibit at the Monterey County Fair features various breeds of pigs, highlighting the care and dedication of local farmers in raising healthy and robust livestock.

• Poultry: The Poultry exhibit at the Monterey County Fair showcases a diverse range of birds, including chickens, ducks, and turkeys, emphasizing the quality and variety of local poultry breeds.

• Rabbits: The Rabbits exhibit at the Monterey County Fair features a variety of breeds, highlighting the care and breeding skills of local enthusiasts and showcasing the charm of these beloved animals.

• Beef Cattle: The Beef Cattle exhibit at the Monterey County Fair highlights top-quality beef breeds, showcasing the strength and health of local cattle and the dedication of ranchers in producing premium beef.

• Sheeps & Goats: The Sheeps & Goats exhibit at the Monterey County Fair features a variety of breeds, showcasing the diversity and quality of these animals and the expertise of local breeders.

• Horticulture: The Horticulture exhibit at the Monterey County Fair showcases a variety of plants and produce, celebrating the region’s gardening expertise with displays of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and landscaping creativity.

• Visual Arts: The Visual Arts exhibit at the Monterey County Fair features a range of artistic creations, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, highlighting the talents of local artists and their diverse expressions.

Summer is here! Now is an excellent time to talk museums. There are so many exciting options near The Olympia Lodge. Here are but a few: 

Museums in the Monterey Bay Area

Monterey Bay is rich in cultural and historical attractions, and there are a variety of museums that cater to every interest.

Top Museums

• Monterey Bay Aquarium: Not just a museum but an immersive experience of the marine world, showcasing local marine life and conservation efforts.
• Monterey Museum of Art: This museum features a diverse collection of California art, from early American works to contemporary pieces.
• Pacific House Museum: Located in the Custom House Plaza, this spot offers insights into Monterey’s historMonterey’sapital of Alta California.

Unique Exhibits

• Cannery Row History: Learn about Monterey’s sardine industry at the Pacific House Museum.
• Historic Artifacts: Explore the rich history of Monterey through various exhibits in the city’s historical center.
• Monterey History & Art Association Salvador Dalí Exhibition in the heart of old Monterey.

For the kids in our lives, and the kid-in-us, here are some of the enticing activities in our neck of the woods. (Don’t forget your room is waiting at the Olympia Lodge for your next visit. Just RSVP now.) 

Kids Activities in Monterey Bay

Monterey Bay is an excellent destination for family vacations, offering numerous activities that are perfect for children and the young-at-heart:

Top Activities

• Monterey Bay Aquarium: Interactive exhibits and touch pools where kids can learn about marine life.
• Dennis the Menace Park: A fun-filled playground with slides, climbing structures, and a locomotive engine.
• Elkhorn Slough Safari: A wildlife boat tour where kids can see sea otters, seals, and a variety of birds.

Family-Friendly Attractions

• Monterey Mirror Maze: An exciting and challenging maze experience for kids and adults alike.
• Monterey Zoo: Home to a wide variety of animals, offering educational programs and guided tours.

Did you know that the Monterey Bay is a premier destination for diving enthusiasts, offering a rich underwater ecosystem and stunning marine biodiversity? The bay’s cold, nutrient-rich waters are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for divers of all skill levels–as well as ocean lovers who are content to stay on shore and take in its beauty while staying dry.

Here are some fun facts to consider: 

Top Dive Sites

• Monterey State Beach is ideal for beginning divers due to its shallow waters and easy access.
• Breakwater Cove is a popular spot known for its vibrant marine life, including seals and a variety of fish.
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers some of the most breathtaking underwater (and out-of-water) scenery, including kelp forests and diverse marine species.

Marine Life

• Monterey Bay Kelp Forests are home to sea otters, harbor seals, and a variety of fish.
• Marine Species, which divers and dry ocean lovers 🙂 encounter, include everything from the cutest otters to majestic sea lions and playful seals.

Dive Shops and Tours

• Monterey Bay Dive Center offers equipment rentals, guided tours, and certification courses.
• Aquarius Dive Shop is known for its friendly staff and comprehensive diving services.

It’s not too late to book your stay and come play. Here’s what’s happening this month around The Olympia Lodge. All that’s missing is you, so RSVP and plan your visit now.

Highlights and Notable Events for July

Independence Day Fireworks (July 4)

• Location: Monterey Bay Waterfront
• Description: Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display over the bay. Various festivities and family-friendly activities will be held throughout the day.

First Fridays Art Walk (July 5)

• Location: Downtown Monterey
• Description: Explore local art galleries, enjoy live music, and sample delicious food during this monthly event

Carmel Bach Festival (July 20 – August 3)

• Location: Various venues in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Description: This renowned classical music festival celebrates the works of Johann Sebastian Bach and other composers. Attend concerts, recitals, and educational events.

Whale Watching Tours

• Daily: Departing from Fisherman’s Wharf and Moss Landing
• Description: July is an excellent time to watch whales in Monterey Bay. Look out for humpback whales, blue whales, and other marine wildlife.

Other Ongoing Activities

• Monterey Bay Aquarium: Open daily with special summer programs and exhibits.
• Monterey County Fairgrounds Events: Check the schedule for various events, including flea markets, food festivals, and live music.