FAQs

    • May 7

    • 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM

    We are thrilled to welcome you to an inspiring evening celebrating ocean champions from around the world. Below are important details to help you prepare for the event.

    Event Location

    Monterey Bay Aquarium
    886 Cannery Row
    Monterey, CA 93940

    Event signage and volunteers will guide you to check-in upon arrival.

    • VIP Reception: 6:00–7:00 PM
      (Doors open promptly at 6:00 PM for sponsors, awardees, presenters, selection committee members, and special guests.)

    • General Admission Arrival: 7:00 PM

    • Award Ceremony: 8:00–9:30 PM

    • Desserts & Dancing: 9:30–10:30 PM

    • From 6:00–7:00 PM

    • Reserved for:

      • Sponsors

      • Awardees

      • Presenters

      • Selection Committee Members

      • Invited Special Guests

      Enjoy:

      • Open bar & passed hors d’oeuvres

      • Sponsor showcases

      • Step & repeat photography

      • Videographer interviews (select guests)

      • Aquarium gift shop open

    • From 7:00 - 8:00 PM

    • Food stations & passed appetizers

    • Open bars

    • High-top tables for mingling

    • Aquarium exhibits open

    • Step & repeat available for all guests

    • From 8:00 - 9:30 PM

    • Guests ushered into auditorium beginning at 7:45 PM

    • Prosecco served at entrance

    • Honoree videos & award presentations

    • Professional photography & videography

    • Live-stream viewing available in designated areas outside the auditorium for guests who wish to continue enjoying drinks and conversation while watching the ceremony

    • From 9:30 - 10:30 PM

    • Dessert stations

    • Bar remains open

    • Live band & dancing

    • Final photo opportunities

    • Don’t forget to grab your complimentary giveaway, courtesy of Wild Republic, on your way out!

  • The Aquarium is located on Cannery Row. Nearby public parking options include:

    • Cannery Row Garage (601 Foam Street)

    • Wave Street Garage (340 Wave Street)

    • David Avenue Lot

    Street parking may also be available but can be limited. We recommend arriving early to allow time for parking.

    Rideshare services are encouraged.

  • Within walking distance or a short drive:

    • InterContinental The Clement Monterey

    • Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

    • Spindrift Inn

    • Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay

    We recommend booking accommodations early, as May is a busy season in Monterey.

  • Cocktail or ocean-inspired formal attire is encouraged.

  • Professional photographers and videographers will capture the evening. By attending, you consent to being photographed and filmed.

  • The celebration concludes at 10:30 PM. Bars will close in accordance with venue policy.

    We look forward to celebrating ocean leadership with you at the Peter Benchley Ocean Awards.