User:Jackiezzzz/Point Sur State Marine Reserve and Marine Conservation Area

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Habitat and wildlife
The Point Sur marine protected areas contain a wide diversity of habitats that support a range of fish, seabirds and invertebrate species. The protected lee of Point Sur supports a large kelp bed that provides a shelter and nursery habitat to rockfish and other species. Remote from ports and urban development, the Point Sur Marine protected areas protect one of the few remaining areas in central California that support large, healthy fish populations and pristine habitat.

'''Sea otters, sea lions, and harbor seals live along the shore, and abalone and mussels can be found along the coast. Every year gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales migrate past Point Sur. The kelp forests of the Point Sur SMCA are home to cabezon, vermillion rockfish, and blue fish, while mola mola live near the ocean surface. Spotted ratfish have been spotted in the Point Sur SMCA near the ocean floor.  Migrating birds shelter and nest on nearshore rocks, including gulls, cormorants, guillemots, ashy storm-petrels, Cassin’s auklet, and tufted puffins.'''

Geography and natural features
These two marine protected areas adjoin each other off the coast of Point Sur. The Big Sur coastline is known for its spectacular and rugged scenery. The Point Sur SMR is adjacent to Andrew Molera State Park and Point Sur State Historic Park. '''The Point Sur SMR extends from Point Sur in the north to Cooper Point in the south and starts at the coastline and extends to the west. The Point Sur SMCA is directly adjacent to Point Sur SMR, further to the west. '''

Recreation and nearby attractions
Andrew Molera State Park, adjacent to Point Sur SMR, has miles of hiking trails and a primitive walk-in camp. Point Sur State Historic Park features the Point Sur Lighthouse, the only complete turn-of-the-century lighthouse open to the public in California. The light station is on the National Register of Historic Places.

California's marine protected areas encourage recreational and educational uses of the ocean. Activities such as kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and swimming are allowed unless otherwise restricted.