Monterey Bay

The entire novel takes place in and around Monterey Bay. The Monterey Bay Aquarium sits on the shore overlooking the sea. The animals in the bay call the aquarium "Highwater." The scientists who work in the aquarium are deeply invested in conservation of the bay, which is an incredibly diverse and lively place.

Elkhorn Slough

Elkhorn Slough is a marshy shallow right off the coast in Monterey Bay. There is a lot of food for otters to eat, and there are lots of humans in kayaks and canoes. Kairi and the other cautious otters like to remain in the slough where it is safe. At the end of the slough is the deep bay, where kelp forests sway in the water and sharks roam.

Moss Landing State Beach

Moss Landing State Beach is a beach in Monterey Bay. After Odder is bitten by the shark, she hauls...