Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

image of a humpback whale breaching

News & Upcoming Events

Coastal Discover Center Closed Until Further Notice
Due extended maintenance, the center is temporarily closed (11/8/2024)


Notice of Availability for Sur Ridge Groundfish Exclusion Area: Amendment 34 (Oct 9, 2024) (11/8/2024)


Sanctuary Exploration Center in Santa Cruz Closed Nov. 28, Dec 25, and Jan 1 This Holiday Season (11/8/2024)


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Welcome to Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary! One of our nation's most spectacular marine protected areas, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the world! This "Serengeti of the Sea" stretches along the central coast from San Francisco to Cambria and includes pristine beaches, jewel-like tide pools, lush kelp forests, steep canyons and an offshore seamount teeming with life—from tiny shrimp to giant blue whales. The National Marine Sanctuary System promotes environmental protection, stewardship and ocean research. We invite you to explore and help protect this national undersea treasure.
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Reviewed: July 18, 2024
Web Site Owner: National Ocean Service

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