Sonoma Coast State Marine Conservation Area

The Sonoma Coast State Marine Conservation Area is a protected marine zone stretching between Mussel Point and Schoolhouse Beach with rocky seafloor habitat. Underwater canyons and rocky formations create shelter for numerous fish species and marine organisms throughout the site.

The area was established in 2010 to protect marine ecosystems along California's coast from overfishing and habitat damage. Its creation marked an important step in safeguarding underwater resources in this region.

Local dive operators and visitors come to observe sea stars and urchins in shallow tide pools along the rocky shore. This rocky habitat supports diverse marine life that changes with the seasons and tides.

Fishing is strictly limited in this area, and collecting marine plants or certain invertebrate species is prohibited. Check local regulations before visiting to understand what activities are allowed where you plan to go.

Underwater surveys using remote cameras reveal unusually dense populations of brown rockfish clustered around these rocky reefs. This concentration of fish here is higher than what researchers find in other protected marine areas along California's coast.