On June 8th of each year, a global conservation organization known as The Ocean Project promotes the majesty of our oceans with World Ocean Day. Since 2002, this day has been a celebration of the five oceans that connect us — and it emphasizes our responsibility to protect the ocean and the many organisms that call the ocean home.

The Ocean Project is quick to note that in reality there is one global ocean that connects us all, so World Oceans Day is also a day of coming together and promoting the human community. Monterey County celebrates this unifying mission with plenty of local events that promote the sustainability of the ocean. 

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most iconic spots in Monterey County and a must-visit for families — or anyone with even a passing interest in marine life. What better place to celebrate World Oceans Day than at an aquarium featuring over 35,000 animals, representing more than 550 species, all housed in 2.3 million gallons of water! Few places so fully capture the majesty, mystery, and magic of the ocean.

Monterey Bay Aquarium Kelp Forest

Eat Sustainably With the Seafood Watch

The Monterey Bay Aquarium isn't just an educational experience — its mission is to also make a difference. The aquarium's Seafood Watch program seeks to promote sustainable fishing practices. It applies marine science to seafood purchasing decisions so that consumers, chefs and business professionals can make responsible and sustainable decisions when it comes to consuming seafood. 

On World Oceans Day 2018, Seafood Watch encouraged over 500 businesses and partners to communicate how they plan on catching and serving seafood sustainably. This year is another opportunity to use World Oceans Day to campaign for protection and respect for the world of creatures that live in our nautical realms.  

Sustainable Seafood

Celebrate Sustainable Moments

The ocean is what makes Monterey Bay such a unique destination. So it's no wonder the people in and around Monterey County see World Oceans Day as the perfect opportunity to celebrate its beauty and power together as a community. 

Naturally, the Monterey County CVB wants to get in on the action and encourage sustainability, too. That's why we have launched Sustainable Moments, a campaign that promotes responsible travel to Monterey County. Visiting Monterey County can be so much more than a 'gramable getaway — it can also be a chance to engage with the native environment and pay respect to the communities who live here year-round, whether on land or under sea.

Big Sur Couple

Planning a trip this World Oceans Day? Click here for some more valuable tips for responsible travel to Monterey County.