Instead of falling down on the ice skating rink or wiping out on the ski slopes, you might want to check out the scene in Monterey, Calif. It is a place where many sea creatures can be found and the ocean can be enjoyed.

For ocean fascination, the Whale Watch Cruise in the Monterey Bay is popular. Gray whales and dolphins can be observed during the winter and spring season in a three-hour guided trip. The daily trips are run by marine biologists and are held from January to March. Reservations are recommended. The cost varies from $25 to $40 for adults and $18 to $33 for those under age 18.

A 60-passenger boat tour is also available through Eagle Eye Tours. The Monterey County Parks Department offers guided tours of Lake San Antonio, Fridays through Sundays during the winter. The cost begins at $6 and can range up to $17 for the Sunday brunch special.

For dining pleasure, the Tutto Buono Italian restaurant offers brick-oven pizzas, a fabulous eggplant sandwich, a full bar, and the largest variety of appetizers. In the center of Monterey lies Epsilon, a Greek restaurant. The environment is found to be friendly and the food is said to be great. There is a choice of vegetarian items available, as well.

A common place to visit is the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, which has been the town’s main attraction. It is the nation’s largest marine sanctuary that re-creates the Bay’s habitats.

The aquarium features the million-gallon Outer Bay Exhibit, a three-story Kelp Forest, and a two-story Sea Otter exhibit. The aquarium is open every day of the year except Christmas Day and is located at the end of the historic Cannery Row. Tickets are $12.95 with a college identification or $15.95 for general adult admission. For children ages 3 to12, the cost is $7.95.

Monterey offers a variety of activities for everyone. Not only are there oceanic activities, there are museums, art galleries, and special holiday events. For a 24-hour access to the Monterey Peninsula, visit www.mty.com. This site provides all the information you need about tours, trips, restaurants, hotels, and the weather forecasts in Monterey.