When you visit Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is all around you! With direct access along the two-mile stretch of Cannery Row, the Marine Sanctuary provides an exciting opportunity to explore the Monterey Bay’s natural wonders in their home habitat.

Cannery Row's National Treasure

A federally protected marine area, the Marine Sanctuary flanks the coast of Central California extending from Marin to Cambria, a total of 276 miles along the shoreline and 5,322 square miles of ocean. The Marine Sanctuary sustains one of the world's most diverse marine ecosystems and is home to numerous mammals, seabirds, fishes, invertebrates, and plants—many of which cluster in the waters along Cannery Row.

How to Access the Marine Sanctuary

Cannery Row is one of the best places on the Central Coast to experience the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Whether your preference is staying dry or getting your feet wet, all visitors to Cannery Row can get up close to the marine life so precious to California’s coastline.

Take a walk along Cannery Row and the Coastal Recreation Trail to enjoy many vista points along the breathtaking coastline that is the Marine Sanctuary. Or, get sandy at San Carlos Beach where many colorful sea creatures inhabit the tide pools. But if that's not close enough, jump right it! Boats and kayaks may be rented from local Cannery Row vendors, as well as scuba diving gear and lessons.

For more information, please visit the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary web site.