The aquarium is non-profit. The ticket sales go toward research and conservation of the oceans. I don't know if they still do this, but the local inns sold aquarium tickets good for two consecutive days during off season. I don't know if May qualifies as off season.

You can purchase Monterey Bay Aquarium tickets from AAA that have a small discount, about $2, on both adult and children's tickets.

Local hotels sell tickets that are valid for 2 days, instead of one - which is a really great value if you will be staying in town or just want to visit on another day.

The San Jose area Entertainment 2007 coupon book has a $5 off of the adult tickets (Up to 4 adults)

I'll be going there later in the year and have been looking into the same topic. Here's the best that I've got so far (though, I'll be on the lookout for deals up to the last minute!!).

I'll be part of a group of 14...6 adults, 6 children, and 2 infants. Regular price would be $245.40

Since my mother in law is part of the group, it would be best if she purchased a regular annual membership for $120 which would take care of herself, 1 other adult and all the kids (this level of membership allows the passholder to bring in children and grandchildren ages 2-21). We also purchased the 2007 Entertainment book which has $5 off coupons (for up to 4 adults) which brings the admission price for the remaining 4 adults at $19.95 each. Total cost $199.80 - a savings of $45.60 which will hopefully buy a few bowls of clam chowder at the Wharf after we tour the aquarium!

Note that the Entertainment Book cost $16 (they're all 50% off now), however, because the book has paid for itself at least 10 times over with the car rental and hotel savings alone, I'm not going to factor it into my aquarium costs.

Here you can save $2 for Monterey Bay Aquarium http://www.visitcalifornia.com/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Fun_Spots

Military servicemembers can get adult tickets for $23 (not much of a discount) at the presidio.

At certain times of each month, locals can get free tickets for up to 6 or 8 people through the monterey county public library. Then they can bring their non-resident relatives in using these. So, if you have any local connection, ask them to look into this.

The acquarium also has free days for locals (they must bring a utilities bill or some such as proof.) I believe the free days are the 20th of each month at the moment.

Getting a membership is a really good way to go. You'll get admission for you and the kids plus, you don't have to wait in the line that usually forms at the entrance. Plus, since you live in the bay area you can come back all year for free admission. This level of membership is $120.

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