Tag Archives: california department of fish and wildlife

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

December 6th, 2018

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. The majestic beauty of Bodega Head is unparalleled, and can be explored […]

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

November 15th, 2018

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 […]

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Ten Mile Beach State Marine Conservation Area and Ten Mile State Marine Reserve

October 19th, 2018

Winding along Highway 1 north of Fort Bragg takes you through coastal plains, patches of forest, and hidden dunes, with a glimpse of the ocean from time to time. As you approach the bridge that crosses Ten Mile River, the scenery suddenly opens up to a panoramic view of ocean and estuary in an area […]

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

August 17th, 2018

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. Morro Rock also marks the beginning of a safe haven for local wildlife living in […]

Exploring California’s Marine Protected Areas: Point Dume State Marine Reserve and Point Dume State Marine Conservation Area

July 23rd, 2018

Just over 30 miles due west of downtown Los Angeles, one of the world’s most popular coastal destinations — Malibu — attracts millions of visitors each year. Famous for expansive beaches, sprawling estates, and majestic mountains, Malibu averages over 280 sunny days a year, and is an outdoor haven for locals and tourists alike.