Get Into Your Sanctuary

recreation photos and surfboard graphic with the text

Every year, NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries hosts Get Into Your Sanctuary events and the Get Into Your Sanctuary Photo Contest to encourage responsible recreation and enjoyment in national marine sanctuaries. The annual photo contest runs from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, with winning photos featured on the winners page and the Earth Is Blue social media campaign.

Enter your best photos from Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary! Remember to practice responsible recreation when taking your photos. When photographing marine mammals and other protected species, always follow wildlife viewing guidelines to ensure that you are not disturbing animals.

You're Invited!

Check back for celebration events taking place in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary this summer.

But wait, there's more!

  • Follow @mbnms on Facebook to learn about upcoming Get Into Your Sanctuary events.
  • Share photos of your sanctuary experience on social media with #ILoveMySanctuary and #RecreateResponsibly.
  • Collect Badges with the National Park Trust using ParkPassport app for your virtual fun or in-person activities!
  • Take the pledge for wildlife! #WildSanctuaries
Whale tale above the water during a breathtaking sunset.
A humpback whale (Megaptera novaengliae) makes a dive at sunset in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. This photo was taken with a zoom camera lens from a safe distance. Please remember to follow wildlife viewing guidelines when observing marine life.