Tag Archives: monterey

Soquel Canyon State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA) lies deep within scenic, half moon-shaped Monterey Bay, where dark mysteries lure scientists and anglers alike. The SMCA encompasses a side branch of the Monterey Submarine Canyon, one of the deepest submarine canyons on the West Coast of the United States. Both Soquel and Monterey canyons funnel nutrient-rich waters […]

California estuaries, with their tidal flats, coastal marsh, eelgrass and brackish water are special places where fresh water flows to meet the salty Pacific Ocean. Elkhorn Slough is a large, iconic estuary near Moss Landing in Monterey County, known for its high species richness and habitat diversity. Combined, Elkhorn Slough and the smaller, adjacent Moro Cojo […]

Portuguese Ledge State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA) lies four miles offshore of the Monterey peninsula in central California. The SMCA was established following the passage of the Marine Life Protection Act in 1999, which mandated the redesign of California’s marine protected area (MPA) system into a cohesive network. Currently, only 14 of the 124 state […]

One stretch of coastline in Central California is so picturesque that it is considered by some to be “the greatest meeting of land and sea in the world.”  Filled with amazing hiking trails, abundant marine life, and unparalleled scuba diving, this area is just a short drive south of the Monterey Peninsula. Given how easy it […]

As you drive south on Highway 1 from Carmel (or north from San Simeon) on the central California coast, you enter a majestic stretch of coastline called Big Sur. This rugged area, known for its breathtaking views and pristine coastline, is wild yet easy to view from the highway. Although access to the water’s edge […]