Chomp

MONTEREY, Calif.--Given that it's probably the world's best aquarium, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has a long list of attractions that leave visitors smiling and talking afterwards. But ask a lot of those visitors what their favorite is, and they'll say without hesitating, "the otters."

And why not? Sea otters are among the most adorable marine creatures around, evincing a keen intelligence and a lot of personality, and seem determined to please their many fans.

As part of Road Trip 2012, CNET's Daniel Terdiman spent a recent day at the aquarium getting a behind-the-scenes tour. And a special look at one of the otters' daily feedings was top of the list of the day's accomplishments.

Other highlights (see later in this slideshow) included visits with the people running the jellyfish laboratories, a look at how the aquarium uses remote operated vehicles (ROVs) in its giant Open Sea tank, some amazing seahorses, and more.