Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation

04/02/2026

A thoughtful perspective from longtime ocean advocate and Foundation board member, Dan Haifley, on why sustained funding for our national marine sanctuaries matters now more than ever.

Protecting these extraordinary places takes all of us—public support, private philanthropy, and strong partnerships working together to ensure their future.

“Our national marine sanctuaries have value, and our federal representatives in both political parties agree,” writes columnist Dan Haifley. “To keep the momentum going, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is asking…

04/01/2026

Big news for ocean conservation...

The Port of Oakland is being recognized for meaningful steps to protect whales and reduce environmental impacts along our coast—proof that smart partnerships can drive real change.

We’re proud to help fund the phenomenal Blue Whales, Blue Skies initiative—directing support from our donors and grantors through our partners at the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation—and we’re encouraged to see leadership like this making our ocean safer for these incredible animals.

Protecting wildlife and supporting sustainable maritime practices go hand in hand—and we are honored to be a part of it.

Port receives Gold Award from Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Oakland, Calif. – March 30, 2026: The Port of Oakland will receive a special Gold Award by the organization Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) on April 22 for participation in the 2025 Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) Seaso...

03/13/2026

A concerning development along our coast.

Scientists are tracking an outbreak of avian flu affecting elephant seals, seabirds, and even a sea otter near Año Nuevo. While the risk to people is very low, experts urge beachgoers to keep their distance from sick or stranded wildlife and report sightings to NOAA’s stranding hotline.

Our ocean is full of wonder—but also vulnerable. Staying informed and giving wildlife space helps protect the animals that call this sanctuary home.

"We are starting to see some carcasses on public beaches."

03/09/2026

A rarely seen glass squid was recently spotted in Monterey Bay—its nearly transparent body making it look like something from another world.

Encounters like this offer a glimpse into the mysterious deep-sea life that exists just offshore in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

Proof that even in a place we know well, the ocean still holds surprises.

This baby creature lives in the ocean's twilight zone.

03/09/2026

https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/monterey-bay-squid-21952608.php

This baby creature lives in the ocean's twilight zone.

03/08/2026

02/26/2026

Bird flu isn’t just a land-based story anymore.

A new report highlights how avian influenza is impacting elephant seals along the California coast — a sobering reminder of how connected our ecosystems truly are.

When wildlife health is disrupted, it ripples across the entire ocean system. From seabirds to marine mammals, these impacts underscore why protecting coastal habitats and investing in science and monitoring matter more than ever.

Here in and around the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, we are fortunate to witness thriving marine life — but it depends on vigilance, research, and public awareness.

The ocean connects us all. Let’s stay informed — and stay committed to its protection.

Thirty seals, primarily weaned pups, have died since late last week, scientists said.

02/23/2026

A little Ocean Monday chuckle...

Yes Raymond, you look cool!

Comic by Liz Climo

02/23/2026

New research reveals that s***m whale communication is far more intricate than we once thought — with sounds that resemble human speech patterns, including “vowel-like” elements. This discovery not only reshapes our understanding of these majestic ocean giants but also highlights how much we still have to learn about life beneath the waves.

Groundbreaking research is revealing that communication among whales is far more complex and sophisticated than previously believed.

02/02/2026

A reminder of the power and splendor of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary...

Winter storms are sending massive swells toward our coast, putting the sanctuary fully on display—raw, dynamic, and humbling. These waters shape life, coastline, and community, and moments like this remind us why they deserve both admiration and respect.

If you’re heading to the coast, please keep a safe distance and follow local advisories. Witness the beauty—but give the ocean the space it commands.

📖 Read more:

On Thursday at 12:13 p.m. the NWS San Francisco CA released a beach hazards statement in effect until Monday at 9 a.m. The statement is for Northern Monterey Bay and Big Sur as well as San Francisco County.

01/31/2026

Must-read for ocean lovers and sanctuary supporters!
In his latest Ocean Currents column, longtime ocean advocate Dan Haifley invites all of us to pause, look closely, and “go see that life” in Monterey Bay — our spectacular, dynamic marine ecosystem. From coastal currents that shape underwater life to the vibrant communities thriving beneath the waves, Haifley’s message is a powerful reminder that the ocean’s wonders are right in front of us if we take the time to truly observe and appreciate them.

“Santa Cruz, Moss Landing and Monterey harbors and Pillar Point Harbor just north of Half Moon Bay host vessels that offer marine mammal trips,” writes columnist Dan Haifley. “Eac…

01/29/2026

Once-in-a-lifetime ocean encounter! A diver off Monterey Bay recently spotted a King-of-the-Salmon — a deep-sea ribbonfish rarely seen alive near the surface — during a clear water dive off McAbee Beach. Marine biologists later confirmed it’s a juvenile of the elusive species Trachipterus altivelis, typically found hundreds of feet below. Only a handful of sightings have been recorded in decades of ocean research. -Further evidence of the rich biodiversity lying within MBNMS!

“I saw this amazing, cool, spectacular, rare fish while diving in Monterey,” Judah wrote online.