NOAA's Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary hosts a remarkably productive marine environment containing extensive kelp forests, rugged rocky shores, wave-swept sandy beaches, tranquil estuaries, towering seamounts, and deep-sea canyons. Stretching 276 miles of coastline and consisting of 6,094 square miles, the sanctuary was designated in 1992 to protect incredible marine ecosystems and cultural and maritime resources while promoting sustainable use. The sanctuary allows for recreational and commercial activities while conserving natural resources, water quality, habitats, and bountiful resident and migratory marine life.
Check out the latest Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary news and events.
Join us November 5th for the 2026 Ricketts Lecture by Dr. Andrew T. Fisher at the Sanctuary Exploration Center or remotely via webinar.
Five staff members from four national marine sanctuaries in California recently completed drone pilot and field training in Monterey, expanding the region's ability to use aerial technology for research, emergency response, and outreach.
Explore the sanctuary’s kelp forests, rocky reefs, and the deep, dark seafloor. Discover colorful sea stars, ghostly anemones, playful sea lions, and other mysterious creatures from the depths!
Understand priority areas of impact in education, science, and resource protection that support current management of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary as a place of national significance.
Visit one of our free visitor centers to enjoy interactive exhibits and education programs about the sanctuary.
Explore the many opportunities to get involved in protecting Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Safeguarding America's Premier Marine Places
From Washington state to the Gulf of America and from the Great Lakes to the Pacific Islands, the National Marine Sanctuary System protects 18 underwater parks spanning over 629,000 square miles of ocean and Great Lakes waters. By investing in innovative solutions, we strengthen these iconic places to address 21st-century challenges while supporting America's commerce and tourism. These unique locations inspire people to visit, value, and steward our nation’s iconic ocean and Great Lakes waters.
