Get Into Your Sanctuary!
You're Invited!
These events are held annually during the first week of August. Join us during the week of August 2-8, 2021 for a variety of activities across the National Marine Sanctuary System - from sea to shining sea. This year, NOAA's National Marine Sanctuary System will be hosting both in-person and online celebrations.
So, wherever you are, you will have the opportunity to visit with more than just the national marine sanctuary nearest you.
- Tell us about your favorite activities in national marine sanctuaries using #ILoveMySanctuary and #RecreateResponsibly!
- Show off your own marine adventures by entering the national photo contest. There are four different categories, including Sanctuaries at Home, so no excuse not to participate!
- Earn a badge with the ParkPassport app for your virtual fun or in -person activities!
- Take the pledge for wildlife! #WildSanctuaries
- And much more!
Northeast and Great Lakes Region
Lake Ontario (in designation) Mallows Bay-Potomac River Monitor Stellwagen Bank Thunder Bay Wisconsin-Shipwreck Coast
Sanctuary News
United in Song: Finding Common Ground to Protect Humpback Whales
Long-term acoustic monitoring by NOAA and the Navy within Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary provides insights into variability of humpback whale presence and behavior.
Virtual Dives
Immerse yourself in the ocean and your national marine sanctuaries without getting wet!
Our planet is an ocean planet: Earth Is Blue. The National Marine Sanctuary System protects some of the most iconic underwater places throughout the United States, but we can't do it without you. No matter where you are, the ocean and Great Lakes are in your hands. We hope these images inspire you to help care for our ocean and to spread the word that Earth isn't green – it's blue.
Join us on 
and submit your own photos.
Stories from the Blue
Stories from the Blue celebrate the people at the center of national marine sanctuaries and marine national monuments. What does the National Marine Sanctuary System mean to you?
Earth is Blue Magazine
Explore Sanctuaries Live
with real-time video and communication feeds
Sanctuary Nomination Process
NOAA invites communities across the nation to nominate their most treasured places in our marine and Great Lakes waters for consideration as national marine sanctuaries.
Visit
National marine sanctuaries are ideal destinations for travelers who enjoy a diversity of recreational activities.
Get Involved
Volunteers help to ensure marine sanctuaries remain America's underwater treasures for future generations.