Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Casino Point State Marine Conservation Area

Catalina Casino, and the adjacent Casino Point State Marine Conservation Area
CDFW photo

California offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the world, thanks to its magnificent kelp forests. An underwater counterpart to the incomparable redwood forests on land, divers glide through kelp stipes and blades just as

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Scorpion State Marine Reserve

Northeast Santa Cruz Island
photo by A. Van Diggelen

Are you looking for an island getaway? Somewhere off the beaten path with unparalleled views, and few people with whom to share the island? While more than 17 million people live less than 100 miles away in bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, the largest of Southern California’s eight Channel Islands sits just offshore beckoning visitors from the mainland.

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Bodega Head State Marine Reserve and Bodega Head State Marine Conservation Area

 

Coastline overlooking Bodega Bay from the Bodega Head Trail, with Tomales Point in the distance
CDFW photo by A. Frimodig

The splendor and natural productivity of California’s coastal ocean waters is well known to locals and visitors alike. One of the more prominent features along the southern Sonoma County coastline is Bodega Head, a rugged headland located about 40 miles northwest of San Francisco.

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Pillar Point State Marine Conservation Area

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Pillar Point State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA) is located on the stunning coastline of San Mateo county just south of San Francisco. This marine protected area (MPA) lies on the northern edge of Half Moon Bay and is known for its abundant marine life, “fish in grey suits” (white sharks), surfers in rubber suits, and wild waves. 

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Morro Bay State Marine Recreational Management Area and Morro Bay State Marine Reserve

White pelicans, with Morro Rock in the background
photo by T. Heitzenrater

As you drive on Highway 1 into Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo County, a towering rock comes into view marking the edge of the Pacific Ocean. More than 575 feet tall, Morro Rock is evidence of the area’s volcanically active past.