One place you have to go if you are ever in the Monterey Bay area of California, just south of San Jose and the Silicon Valley, is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. See all types of marine life in one single visit: sharks, sea otters, all types of fish, crazy looking jelly fishes, sea stars, and so much more. Kids (and adults too) will love the touch tanks where they can observe stingrays and all sorts of cool tidal creatures.
I would plan on spending at least a few hours at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, just because there is so much to see and do. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out and pick up a souvenir and ask about our RoadSideSecrets Map of the area.
Some of the Jellyfish at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
A Shark in the Outer Bay Exhibit