Looking for some water-type Pokemon? Check out your national marine sanctuaries.

July 2016

some of the water-type pokemon found at the olympic coast discovery center — Images taken in the Olympic Coast Discovery Center, Becca Lewis/NOAA

Perhaps this week you've caught a Rattata (or twenty) walking down the street or a Pidgey wandering through the park. But what's a Pokemon Go player to do when looking for the elusive Tentacruel or Omanyte?

National marine sanctuaries are here for you. While you're out exploring these marine protected areas, you never know if you might find a certain pocket monster.

While you're visiting, don't forget to look up -- you might find some real-life wildlife! Just make sure to give it plenty of space; northern elephant seals and Pokeballs really don't mix well.

northern elephant seal resting on the shore — Make sure to keep your distance from any wild animals. Photo: Robert Schwemmer/NOAA

Pokemon-hunter or not, national marine sanctuaries have something for everyone. Jump in the water to come face-to-face with an incredible array of fish. Wander down the beach to explore the shoreline or discover the diversity of life in a tidepool. Don't want to get your feet wet? Pop into a sanctuary visitor center to learn more about these special places.