Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

  • image of a humpback whale breaching

    A humpback whale breaching in MBNMS

  • image of Deep-sea octopus along the seafloor near Davidson Seamount

    Deep-sea octopus along the seafloor near Davidson Seamount

  • image showing a map of both MBNMS and Davidson Seamount.

    Map of MBNMS with Davidson Seamount in the front

  • image of water fall at Julia Pfieffer Burns State Beach

    Julia Pfieffer Burns State Beach

  • image of Deep-sea octopuses discovered near Davidson Seamount at 3300 meters below

    Deep-sea octopuses discovered near Davidson Seamount at 3300 meters below

News & Upcoming Events

Position Announcement: Full–Time Volunteer Coordinator/Education Assistant (6/12/2024)


The MBNMS Research Team is looking for an intern to aid in the development and implementation of the sanctuary's Kelp Plan. For more information and to apply, click on "INTERNSHIPS" on this page (6/3/2024)


Sanctuary Exploration Center Closed 6/19 and 7/4 For Federal Holidays
The center will be open ist normal hours Wed-Sun 10a-4p (6/3/2024)


Superintendent Statement: Report and Do Not Disturb Cotton Bales Washed Up on Local Beaches! (3/15/2024)


Get Involved and Go Outdoors for Snapshot Day 2024!
Please check out this page for information and training dates. (2/6/2024)


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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: April 11, 2024
Web Site Owner: National Ocean Service

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