2022 Get Into Your Sanctuary Photo Contest results

Thank you to all the photographers who shared their view of national marine sanctuaries with us! Click each photograph to see the full version.

Please note that we may use any of the photos we received for this contest on our website, on social media, and in other NOAA and National Marine Sanctuary Foundation publications. We will provide credit to photographers whenever we use any of the photos. Organizations other than NOAA and the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation may use photographs submitted in this contest to promote sustainable and responsible activities in the National Marine Sanctuary System, as long as the photographer is credited. These photos are not for sale and are not for commercial use unless prior permission is arranged.

Sanctuary Life

From tiny krill to enormous gray whales, thousands of species call the National Marine Sanctuary System home! This category depicts the amazing marine life that you can find in your national marine sanctuaries. All photographers followed marine life viewing guidelines while taking photos.

Flamingo tongue snail on a sea rod with a diver in the distance.
1st Place: Daryl Duda. Flamingo tongue snail (Cyphoma gibbosum) on a sea rod with a diver in the background at Elbow Reef off Key Largo in Florida Keys National Sanctuary.
Spoonbill gliding through a scenic sunset with the water reflecting the sky's cotton candy-like hues.
2nd Place: Jack Louden 'Spoonbill Over Paradise' - A pink spoonbill (Platalea) soars over Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
A humpback whale lunge feeding while cormorants and gulls swarm the oceanscape.
3rd Place: Douglas Croft. "A lunge feeding humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae). This humpback was feeding just outside of Moss Landing Harbor in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The school of anchovies (Engraulidae) brought a bunch of cormorants (Phalacrocoracidae) and gulls (Larinae) with it as it used our boat for cover."
Blenny fish exiting its colorful and textured den.
Honorable Mention: Justin Wallace. Macro shot of a blenny fish (Blennioidei) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary.
Sunlight casting a unique pattern on galapago shark's head while its dorsal fin pokes out of the water slightly.
Honorable Mention: Leighton Lum. Galapagos shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis) off the North Shore of Oahu.
Back to category winners

All submitted photos

Squinting fox walking along rocky terrain.
Island fox (Urocyon littoralis) in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Kristy Porteous
Aerial shot of two dolphins under water.
Dolphins (Delphinus) underwater in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Kristy Porteous
Group of sea lions lounging on a buoy.
California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) relaxing on a buoy. Photo: Kristy Porteous
Wood-pewee tucked under a leaf.
A baby eastern wood-pewee (Contopus virens) enjoying the shade under a leaf at Selkirk Shores near Lake Ontario. Photo: Alison Hibbert
A close-up image of a small bird on the beach.
Snowy plover (Charadrius nivosus) at Carmel Beach. Photo: Allison Formica
Young elephant seal resting on the beach.
Juvenile elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris) hanging out at Hopkins Beach, Monterey. Photo: Allison Formica
Group of birds drying off on a cliffside.
Brandt's cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) drying off after dive at Lover's Point, Monterey. Photo: Allison Formica
Plover standing on pebbled beach.
Plover (Charadriinae) at Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park. Photo: Allison Formica
A small fish swimming near a blue shark.
"This photograph was taken during a dive in Stellwagen Bank in 1980. The blue shark (Prionace glauca) is the most abundant species of shark offshore New England. They are common in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary during the summer and fall months." Photo: Kevin McCarthy
Bird landing in the water with wings spread wide.
The great shearwater (Ardenna gravis) can be seen in great numbers resting on the sea surface in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Here, a bird lands in the water near my boat during a trip into the sanctuary. Photo: Kevin McCarthy
A close-up of two stalked tunicate.
The stalked tunicate (Boltenia ovifera) is one of several species of tunicates found on the seafloor and attached to the boulders of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Kevin McCarthy
Northern gannet in flight.
The northern gannet (Morus bassanus) is a common visitor to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary in spring and fall. These graceful birds can soar at great heights and then plunge dive at a high rate of speed to capture prey. Photo: Kevin McCarthy
Humpback whale surfacing with a mouthful of fish.
This humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) has taken a mouthful of water and prey fish as it feasts in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Kevin McCarthy
Person walking along a coastline.
"Take utmost care of our coastal line and everything that comes with it." Photo: Anush Ge
A mountain range with snowy peaks.
"National marine sanctuaries and preservation contributes to the water cycle. Clean water sources allow marine life to thrive. Photo: Anush Ge
Sea lion pup sunbathing on a sandy beach.
'Mischievous Pup' - A northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris) at Año Nuevo Natural Preserve in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Darr
Sea otter bobbing above water.
'Sea Otter Kelping' - A southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) at Point Lobos in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Darr
A caspian in flight.
'Caspian in Flight' - Caspian term (Hydroprogne caspia) at Moss Landing Harbor in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Darr
A close-up of a bass peaking out from kelp.
'Kelp Bass' - Kelp bass (Paralabrax clathratus) at Seymour Marine Discovery Center in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Darr
White egret walking along a grassy beach.
'Egret Hunts' - A great egret (Ardea alba) at Pomponio Beach in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Darr
A group of sea lions lounging on a buoy.
'Buoy Buddies' - California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) at Moss Landing Harbor in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Darr
A pair of playful egrets on the beach.
'Surf Dancing' - Great egrets (Ardea alba) dance on the shore. Photo: Bill Sullivan
A pair of sea otters bobbing above water.
Southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) in Elkhorn Slough Estuarine Reserve. Photo: Bill Sullivan
A close-up of brain corals.
Spawning boulder brain coral (Colpophyllia natans) in Flower Gardens National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
A golden trunkfish swimming among corals.
Golden smooth trunkfish (Lactophrys triqueter) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
An aerial closeup of a tessellated blenny.
Tessellated blenny (Hypsoblennius invemar) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
An aerial shot of a spotted scorpionfish.
Spotted scorpionfish (Scorpaena plumieri) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
An angelfish swimming along the ocean floor.
French angelfish (Pomacanthus paru) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
A manta ray swimming by.
Manta ray (Manta birostris) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
A ruby brittle star sprawled on a coral.
Ruby brittle star (Ophioderma rubicundum) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
A close-up of a barred blenny.
Barred blenny (Hypleurochilus bermudensis) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
A front-facing shot of a red lion fish.
Red lion fish (Pterois volitans) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jennifer Ackerman
A mother and calf humpback whale tails surfacing above water.
"A mother and calf humpback whale (Megaptera novaengliae) diving together in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. I love how their flukes are tipped toward each other, as if in a gesture of love between the mother and her calf." Photo: Beth Anne Miller
A humpback whale breaching the water during sunset.
A humpback whale (Megaptera novaengliae) breaching at sunset in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Anne Miller
A humpback whale back showing above water on a misty morning.
A humpback whale (Megaptera novaengliae) in the morning mist, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Anne Miller
A humpback whale tail flapping above water among flying seagulls.
Three humpback whales (Megaptera novaengliae) feeding together in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Beth Anne Miller
Blue-banded goby peaking out from a darkened corner.
Blue-banded goby (Lythrypnus dalli) in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Bruce Sudweeks
Barnacle-backed hawksbill sea turtle resting on barren ocean floor.
Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) in the East Bank of Flower Gardens National Marine Sanctuary during coral spawning. Photo: Joseph "Butch" Henderson
White and yellow flakes fluttering around a Brain Coral.
Brain coral (Diploria labyrinthiformis) spawning in Flower Gardens Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Joseph "Butch" Henderson
A close-up shot of congregating mollusks, sea anemones, and oysters in a tide pool.
"Out of the 64 miles along Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, there’s a plethora of opportunities for visitors to get a glimpse into the marine life that exists in tide pools. This is a photo of chitons (Polyplacophora), cnidarians (Cnidaria), and a few oysters (Ostrea lurida)." Photo: Carlton Thompson
A thin, shallow strip of water flowing through stumpy hills of mollusks and sea anemones.
Another view of the tide pools within Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Featured are a variety of little critters such as chitons (Polyplacophora), cnidarians (Cnidaria). Photo: Carlton Thompson
Golden-backed Risso's dolphins breaching the water's dark grey surface.
This photo is of Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) breaching while hunting for squid in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The gold pigmentation is caused by diatoms on the skin. Photo: Chelsea Mathieson
A smiling Risso's dolphin breaching the water's bright blue surface.
Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) looks as if it's smiling for the camera during an early morning marine wildlife tour in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Christine Curry
A group of jellyfish suspended upside down in the water column.
'Happy Dance' in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. "The happy choreography by local jellyfishes, also known as Pacific sea nettles (Chrysaora fuscescens) was a success among marine friends and observers." Photo: Clarissa Cervantes
Shimmery tarpon surfacing still blue waters for a gulp of air.
An Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) comes to the surface for a gulp of air in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Chuck Wagner, Jr.
Shimmery tarpon surfacing green-blue waters for a gulp of air.
An Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) comes to the surface for a gulp of air in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Chuck Wagner, Jr.
Angled view of shiny tarpon surfacing baby blue waters for air.
An Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) comes to the surface for a gulp of air in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Chuck Wagner, Jr.
Side profile of tarpon surfacing green waters gasping for air.
An Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) comes to the surface for a gulp of air in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Chuck Wagner, Jr.
White egret perched on branch against a clear blue sky.
A great egret (Ardea alba) perched on a tree branch against a blue sky in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Chuck Wagner, Jr.
White egret perched on a branch, mouth agape, against a clear blue sky.
A great egret (Ardea alba) perched in a tree with open mouth against blue sky. Photo: Chuck Wagner, Jr.
Black-shouldered kite flying against a greyish-blue sky with branches in its grasp.
Black-shouldered kite (Elanus caeruleus) in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daniel Costa
Great blue heron feeding in a pale lagoon, accompanied by its glistening reflection.
Great blue heron (Ardea herodias), feeding in younger lagoon, in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daniel Costa
Sea lion mother and pup sleeping on an elephant seal's back.
"California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) will sleep anywhere, even on the back of an elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris). This image was taken at Año Nuevo Island, in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Daniel Costa
Pigeon guillemot perched on a rock with a sculpin in its mouth.
Pigeon guillemot (Cepphus columba) returning to the nest with a sculpin (Cottoidea), at Año Nuevo Island, in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daniel Costa
A Cuvier's beaked whale breaching the surface with its head awashed in gentle sunlight.
"We found this pod of Cuvier's beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris) in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary while on a whale watching trip to the outer bay. We were fortunate that their dive times were relatively short (less than 30 minutes) and they stayed in the same general area." Photo: Douglas Croft
A humpback whale breaching the grey water's surface with water spraying out of its mouth.
A humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) out of the water in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Douglas Croft
A pod of northern right whale dolphins and Pacific white-sided dolphins racing atop the surface of the water.
"We found a huge mixed pod of northern right whale dolphins (Lissodelphis borealis) and Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) while out on Monterey Bay. Both species came rushing to the boat to surf in the wake and ride in our bow wave. This bunch all got airborne and I was able to get a shot." Photo: Douglas Croft
Two humpback whales lunge feeding with cormorants and gulls dotting the waters and skies.
"We were in the outer reaches of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and came across a large group of humpbacks (Megaptera novaeangliae) feeding on a huge school of anchovies (Engraulidae). We stayed in the area for four hours and the feeding frenzy never slowed. It was beyond amazing!" Photo: Douglas Croft
Multiple humpback whales lunge feeding while gulls encircle the feasting pod.
"In Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, we came across dozens of humpbacks (Megaptera novaeangliae) feeding on a huge school of anchovies (Engraulidae). We stayed in the area for four hours and the feeding frenzy never slowed." Photo: Douglas Croft
Multiple humpback whales lunge feeding while gulls encircle the feasting pod.
"When you're standing north of a southbound humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae). We were in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary watching a group of feeding whales when this one swam under the boat and came up very close on the other side." Photo: Douglas Croft
A close up, frontal view of a humpback whale's dorsal fin and blowhole.
"We were on the outer edges of Monterey Bay watching a large group of feeding humpbacks (Megaptera novaeangliae). The swell was quite large and the two lunged through the surface at the top of the swell. It was quite amazing!" Photo: Douglas Croft
An Orca fastened to chords of water breaching the light grey surface.
Orca (Orcinus orca) on the hunt. A pod of Orcas in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary stealthily attacked a large group of Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) that we were watching. The hunt was quick and successful. Photo: Douglas Croft
A sea otter floating along the water's surface with its hands clasped together.
Southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) in Sun Moss Landing, CA. Photo: Jody Parker
A great barracuda outlined by glimmering sunlight, against a backdrop of Bermuda and Brassy Chubs.
A visit by a great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) with an entourage of Bermuda and Brassy Chubs during a safety stop after a dive at Molasses Reef in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daryl Duda
Grean sea turtle emerging from a gathering of purple sea fans.
Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) getting his belly rubbed the sea fans (Gorgonia ventalina) at Horsehoe Reef off Key Largo in Florida Keys National Sanctuary. Photo: Daryl Duda
Black margate grunts, a schoolmaster snapper, and a queen angelfish passing through a reddish-orange coral crevice.
A couple of black margates (Anisotremus surinamensis), a schoolmaster snapper (Lutjanus apodus), and a queen angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris) make their way through a crevice at French Reef off Key Largo in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daryl Duda
Green sea turtle passing through the water with corals in the distance.
Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) in the water column at Molasses Reef off Key Largo in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daryl Duda
A school of schoolmaster snappers congregating under an overhanging structure.
Schoolmaster snappers (Lutjanus apodus) find some structure in which to gather on the Benwood Wreck off Key Largo in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daryl Duda
An orca's dorsal fin breaching the water's surface, the evening sun glistening off the fin and water.
Orca (Orcinus orca) on the hunt near San Miguel Islands, in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jeff Gomas
Orca's dorsal fin jutting out of shadowy waters, contrasting with the surrounding water's soft evening glow.
Alpha male orca (Orcinus orca) hunting near San Miguel Islands, in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jeff Gomas
Close-up of a larval flying fish against a black background with white specks haphazardly strewn about.
Larval flying fish (Exocoetidae) collected during research cruise at Anacapa Island. Photo: Jeff Gomas
Orca's dorsal fin breaching the surface, dragging a veil of sunlight-saturated water behind it.
Female orca (Orcinus orca) hunting seals with her family near San Miguel Island in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jeff Gomas
Orca's dorsal fin poking out of still waters, with seaspray refracting the light into a faint rainbow.
Killer whale (Orcinus orca) in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jeff Gomas
Viper moray eel staring out of a dark crevice, mouth agape and fangs bared.
A viper moray eel (Enchelynassa canina) in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Donna Rodes Goodale
Close-up view of a banded urchin, a vast array of striped whites and blacks against a dark background.
Banded urchin (Echinothrix calamaris) in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Donna Rodes Goodale
A group of kona crabs buried in sunlit sands, with a single red kona crab uncovered.
Kona crab (Ranina ranina) in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Donna Rodes Goodale
Whitetip reef shark hovering over a coral reef.
Whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus) in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Donna Rodes Goodale
Haig's hermit crab peering forward curiously as it crawls atop a rock laden with white flakes
Haig's hermit crab (Calcinus haigae) in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Donna Rodes Goodale
Red-tailed hawk flapping its wings against a bright white background.
A red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) drops from a tree on Tomales Point Trail. Photo: Vinny Vance
Red-tailed hawk perched atop a barbed fence post, taking in the early morning light
"A red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) in early morning light on Sir Francis Drake Blvd, taken from my car window." Photo: Vinny Vance
Playful humpback whale leaping out of the water, the trail of ocean spray leaving behind the faintest remnants of a rainbow.
"Just after departing Santa Cruz Island, an extremely playful humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) breached several times in front of the ferry boat. Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is bounded by a busy international shipping lane, but these whales still come here annually to feed and play." Photo: Dustin Harris
Anacapa Island arch and lighhouse watches an orca breaching the surface and a commercial fishing boat chugging by.
"Crossing through Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary provides many opportunities for rare wildlife. On a calm winter day, this pod of orcas (Orcinus orca) passed by the iconic Anacapa Island arch and lighthouse, while a commercial fishing boat chugged its way home." Photo: Dustin Harris
Humpback whale flipping out of the water with droplets and sprays cocooning its majestic form.
"Just after departing Santa Cruz Island, an extremely playful humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) breached several times in front of the ferry boat. Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is bounded by a busy international shipping lane, but these whales still come here annually to feed and play." Photo: Dustin Harris
Surf green anemone and sea lemon nudibranch against a mauve background.
'Lemon and Lime' - Sea lemon nudibranch (Dorididae) and surf green anemone (Anthopleura xanthogrammica) at Shi-Shi Beach in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daniel von Staats
A collection of green surf anemones on a mauve-colored surface.
'Hungry hungry Anemone' - Green surf anemone (Anthopleura xanthogrammica) at Shi-Shi Beach in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Daniel von Staats
Layson albatross soaring against a pale blue sky, streaked with hazy clouds.
"Banking out to sea on high aspect ratio wings, this mōlī, or Laysan albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis), will wander for thousands of miles over the Pacific using its remarkable olfactory acuity to locate surface forage at upwelling sites." Photo: Robert Weber
Two horn-eyed ghost crabs standing at a sand burrow with a sand hill looming just behind them.
"A horn-eyed ghost crab (Ocypode ceratophthalmus) digging a burrow in the intertidal zone on the north shore of Oahu in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. The excavated sand is thought to be a territorial signal to other crabs or to attract a potential mate." Photo: Robert Weber
Hawaiian monk seal pup suckling a meal with waves crashing on the rocky coast behind them.
"A one week old pup suckles a meal after a morning swimming lesson while mom takes a well-earned nap, but remains vigilant. Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi), known in Hawaiian as ilio holo i ka uaua, or dog that runs in rough water." Photo: Robert Weber
Red-tailed tropicbird gliding againt a pale blue sky tinged with a few clouds.
"A red-tailed tropicbird, koa’e ‘ula (Phaethon rubricauda), hovers near a sea cliff nest after fishing in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Tropicbirds are superb aerial acrobats and one of the few bird that can also fly backwards." Photo: Robert Weber
White tern balancing a fish and squid in its mouth against a light grey sky.
A white tern, or manu o Kū, returns to a nest site after a successful fishing trip in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. The manu o Kū (Gygis alba) catches fish and squid to feed whole to its hatchling, somehow sequentially alternating the heads and tails in their bill. Photo: Robert Weber
Side profile of a laysan albatross jetting across a clear blue sky.
Laysan albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis) flying over Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Ed Marussich
Red-footed booby flying against a greyish-blue background, its brown and angled wing dipped slightly.
Red-footed booby (Sula sula) flying over Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Ed Marussich
Red-footed booby soaring through the dark blue sky, displaying its black-tipped wings.
Red-footed booby (Sula sula) flying over Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Ed Marussich
Sea otter waving from a kelp bed.
Sea otter (Enhydra lutris) waving from a kelp bed off the Coast Guard Pier in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Emily Belding
Sea otter feasting on a crab in sun-tinged waters.
Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris) eating a crab off the Coast Guard Pier in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Emily Belding
Sea otter snacking on a crab as it relaxedly floats along the water.
Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris) eating a crab off the Coast Guard Pier in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Emily Belding
Sea otter dining on a crab while keeping a watchful eye on its surroundings.
Sea otter (Enhydra lutris) eating a crab off the Coast Guard Pier in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Emily Belding
Harbor seal lounging atop a rock, staring wonderingly in the distance.
Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) sitting atop a rock off the Monterey Coastal Recreation Trail in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Emily Belding
Harbor seal balancing atop a single rock as rich blue waves ripple underneath.
Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina) sitting on a rock off the coast of the Monterey Coastal Recreation Trail in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Emily Belding
Blue starfish splayed out on rock and lichen-littered sand.
Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) mom and pup on a beach near Hopkins Research Center in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Emily Belding
Blue starfish splayed out on rock and lichen-littered sand.
Blue starfish (Linckia laevigata) in Aoa Bay, National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa. Photo: Francis De Lacrose
Green sea turtle cruising out of an arch-like structure.
Shot of a green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) hanging out near an arch structure in Hanauma Bay. Photo: Gavin Iwai
Beaver amidst pine needles, staring off into the distance.
"We call him Castor! A beaver (Castor) at home on a 1918 wooden freighter ship in Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Michele Perrie
Bald eagle swooping and catching a fish along the shoreline.
Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) catches fish along shoreline of Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: J P Brooks
Osprey fiercely defending its nest from an intruder, with the two birds' talons locked in a heated battle.
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) fends off intruder of its nest on a sunken ship at Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: J P Brooks
Swan drifting through still waters, root-like structures sparsley peppering the landscape.
Swan (Cygnus) in Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Tanya Iretskaia
Worm snail tucks into its tube built on rocks.
A worm snail (Vermetidae) tucks into its tube built on the rocks of the Pacific Grove Great Tide Pool in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jacqueline Villa Rajerison
Ten-tentacled burrowing anemone nestled between rocks and a gravelly bottom.
A ten-tentacled burrowing anemone (Halcampa decemtentaculata) hides between rocks and nestles in the gravelly bottom of a tide pool in Point Arena Stornetta Public Lands, part of Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jacqueline Villa Rajerison
Ten-tentacled burrowing anemone reaching out while squished between rocks.
A ten-tentacled burrowing anemone (Halcampa decemtentaculata) stretches out its tiny tentacles while buried between the rocks of a gravelly tide pool. This friend was found in a cove in Jenner, CA, part of Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary). Photo: Jacqueline Villa Rajerison
Two birds peeking out from a short cliffside, admiring the sun setting over a bridge-like structure.
'Solitude at Bahia Honda Seashore' in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jack Louden
Spoonbill perched atop a leafless branch, its ruby-red eyes staring straight ahead.
'Goin' My Way?' - A pink spoonbill (Platalea) perched in a tree in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jack Louden
Spoonbill perched atop a leafless branch, scratching its head with its foot.
'Itchin' to Survive' - A pink spoonbill (Platalea) in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jack Louden
Pelicans huddled together by a pile of sunken driftwood.
'Pelican Pride Party' in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jack Louden
Great egret taking flight from its leafy home.
'Leap of Faith' - A great egret (Ardea alba) takes flight in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jack Louden
Doe staring warily ahead as fawn curiously faces a slightly angled direction.
'Mother and Child Reunion' - Two deer (Cervidae), side-by-side in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jack Louden
Two California brown pelicans preening on some rocks.
California brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) preening in Point Lobos State Reserve. Photo: Jacolyn Harmer
Close up of a California brown pelican preening against a rocky backdrop.
California brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) preening in Point Lobos State Reserve. Photo: Jacolyn Harmer
Harbor seal staring straight ahead, its dark brown eyes almost half-closed.
Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) in Point Lobos State Reserve. Photo: Jacolyn Harmer
Brown harbor seal against a tan rock.
Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) in Point Lobos State Reserve. Photo: Jacolyn Harmer
Sea anemones atop a gravelly base.
Sea anemone (Actiniaria) at Muir Beach, CA. Photo: Judy Barnett
Two humpback whales rocketing out of relatively still waters.
'Humpback Synchronicity' - Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) out of water. Photo: John F. Hunter
Pacific white-sided dolphins leaping several feet into the air and into golden waters.
Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) near Monastery Beach, Carmel. Photo: John F. Hunter
Orca leaping out of blue waters and posing against a pinkish-lavendar sky.
"Happy lady! This female orca (Orcinus orca) had just eaten a nice meal." Photo: John F. Hunter
Two orcas chugging through the water, sending seaspray every which way.
"All of my shots were taken in Monterey Bay. This was roughly 12 miles out of Santa Cruz during heavy rain. The orcas (Orcinus orca) charged our boat because there was seal hiding under the boat. Notice the new born calf, born in the bay, second from the left, the cheeks are still red. Very curious little orca." Photo: John F. Hunter
A pod of common dolphins racing along churning waves.
"Common dolphins (Delphinus), 5 or 6 miles out of Santa Cruz on the Monterey Bay. A huge pod that swam right past us." Photo: John F. Hunter
Humpback whale feasting on anchovies with buildings outlining the background.
"All of my shots are taken on Monterey Bay. This is in Aptos, CA. I was drifting in a rental boat taking pics when suddenly the water started boiling with anchovies. This humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) came up right next to the boat! I always keep a respectable distance, but you never know where they coming up." Photo: John F. Hunter
Humpback and seabirds dining on jittery anchovies.
Humpbacks (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Capitola, feeding on anchovies in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: John F. Hunter
Hermit crab gazing intently into the distance, surrounded by bits and pieces of gravel.
Hermit crab (Paguroidea). Photo: Joana Lourenço
Hawaiian brown slipper lobster tucked between two rocks.
Hawaiian brown slipper lobster (Parribacus antarcticus). Photo: Josie Herrin
Hawaiian blood spotted crab looking out into the world from the safety of its rocky refuge.
Hawaiian blood spotted crab (Carpilius maculatus). Photo: Josie Herrin
Portuguese man O' War against a solid white background.
Portugese Man O' War (Physalia utriculus). Photo: Josie Herrin
Hawaiian cymbal bubble snail inching along a lichen-covered rock and toward a thin strip of rainbow.
Hawaiian cymbal bubble snail (Physalia utriculus). Photo: Josie Herrin
Hawksbill sea turtle casually gliding through the water, in contrast to the sessile coral below.
Hawaiian Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata). Photo: Josie Herrin
Hawksbill sea turtle casually gliding through the water, in contrast to the sessile coral below.
Hawaiian yellow margined spanish dancer (Hexabranchus aureomarginatus). Photo: Josie Herrin
Hawaiian clumpy nudibranch on a tan rock.
Hawaiian clumpy nudibranch (Asteronotus cespitosus). Photo: Josie Herrin
Brain coral flashing a rich cobalt blue under UV lights.
Brain coral (Diploria labyrinthiformis) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, on a night dive under UV lights. Photo: Justin Wallace
Orange sponge spawning into water column.
Spawning sponge (Porifera) shot during a scuba diving trip in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
Close up of a spotted moray eel sporting a toothy grin.
Spotted moray eel (Gymnothorax moringa) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
Blenny fish peering out of a barnacle-like structure.
Tessellated blenny fish (Hypsoblennius invemar) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
Black sailfin blenny fish against an orange and beige background.
Sailfin blenny fish (Emblemaria pandionis) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
A black sailfish blenny fish surrounded by light oranges and beiges glowering into the distance.
Sailfin blenny fish (Emblemaria pandionis) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
Harbor seal sheltered in brown kelp gazing ahead with child-like wonder.
A friendly and curious harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) makes an excellent snorkel buddy. This buddy hails from Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Katie Koehn
Nurse shark swimming under swirly cerulean waters with a white lighthouse in the distance.
Nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) at Alligator Reef Lighthouse, Islamorada, in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Caitlyn Mentel
Sea turtle swimming along the border between seagrass and sand.
Sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) at Alligator Reef Lighthouse in Islamorada in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Caitlyn Mentel
Perched double-crested cormorant calling to a nearby white pelican, also perched.
Double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) and white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) in Las Gallinas. Photo: Lew Jacobson
Snowy egret slowly wading through swampy waters.
Snowy egret (Egretta thula) in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Lonell Rice
Hawaiian monk seal briefly making a surface appearance from azure depths.
Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) at Makako Bay, Big Island, HI. Photo: Michael O’Connor
White-colored egret standing in murky body of water, its reflection dimmed by the smoggy surface.
Egret (Ardea alba Linnaeus) in Marin Center Lagoon. Photo: Steve Keysre
Green sea turtle and Hawaiian monk seal snoozing together on a beach.
A Hawaiian green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) snooze together on a beach in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
Two Hawaiian monk seals joust on a sandy beach, a mass of seabirds soaring through the sky.
Two Hawaiian monk seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi) joust on Laysan Island in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
Hawaiian monk seals lounging on the beach on a clear day with the waves crashing into the rocky coast behind them.
Hawaiian monk seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi) relax on the beach of Nihoa Island in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
A rocky cliff overlooking two Hawaiian monk seals resting by tidepools.
Hawaiian monk seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi) rest in the tide pools of Mokumanamana Island in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
Two green sea turtles contentedly basking on a sandy beach, with one head resting atop the other's shell.
Hawaiian green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) bask on Tern Island in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
Hawaiian monk seal and pup staring intently at each other while bluish-green waves roll along the shoreline.
A Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) mother and pup bond on Trig Island in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
Green sea turtle and Hawaiian monk seal napping atop a hill of sand.
A Hawaiian green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) rest together on East Island in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
Hawaiian Monk Seal pup peaking over its mother's head.
A Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) pup peaks over its mother's head on Tern Island in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Mark Sullivan
A lone purple sea urchin sitting on a rock.
A purple sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) in the tide pools at Point Lobos, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Christine Craddock
A lone purple sea urchin sitting on a rock.
A California Gull (Larinae) perched outside the Monterey Bay Aquarium, in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Christine Craddock
Black and white shot of California brown pelicans diving in a feeding frenzy.
California brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) diving in a feeding frenzy in the Santa Barbara Channel just off the shores of Anacapa. Photo: Meg DeCoite
Top-down view of two Pacific white-sided dolphins bolting through the teal waters.
These are Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) that were spotted in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary while the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada was conducting acoustic transects. Photo: Megan O’Neill
Top-down view of two Pacific white-sided dolphins breaching just above the teal waters.
These are Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) that were spotted in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary while the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada was conducting acoustic transects. Photo: Megan O’Neill
Top-down view of two pacific white-sided dolphins splashing into the teal waters.
These are Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) that were spotted in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary while the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada was conducting acoustic transects. Photo: Megan O’Neill
A pod of Pacific white-sided dolphins continually breaching and swimming just under the surface.
These are Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) that were spotted in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary while the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada was conducting acoustic transects. Photo: Megan O’Neill
A single Pacific white-sided dolphin breaching the ocean's surface.
These are Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) that were spotted in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary while the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada was conducting acoustic transects. Photo: Megan O’Neill
Multiple Pacific white-sided dolphins leaping out of the water.
These are Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) that were spotted in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary while the NOAA Ship Bell M. Shimada was conducting acoustic transects. Photo: Megan O’Neill
White tern feeding fish to its small chick amidst a canopy of leaves.
A parent white tern (Gygis alba) flies in with fish for its small chick. Of the main Hawaiian Islands, white terns are a migratory bird found only on Oahu along the stretch of coast from Hanauma Bay to Pearl City in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
Hawaiian short-eared owl sitting on a fence post, its striking gaze facing the camera directly.
A Hawaiian short-eared owl (Asio flammeus sandwichensis) or Pueo sitting on a back country fence post off the Kona Coast of the Big Island in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
Wrinkly Hawaiian monk seal molting out of its brown fur.
Rocky (RH58), an endangered Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) rests on an Oahu Beach as she spends several days going through her annual "catastrophic molt" (the shedding of their fur) in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
Nesting laysan albatross stretching its legs, giving a brief peek of its little chick.
A laysan albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis) parent stands up to stretch its legs and gives a brief peek as it broods its little chick in a colony of nests located off of the Kahuku Coastline in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
White terns marveling at a freshly-laid egg.
White tern (Gygis alba) parents marvel at their egg laid just seconds ago. white terns are a migratory bird that do not build nests. On the main Hawaiian Islands they are only found on Oahu from Hanauma Bay to Pearl City in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
Hawaiian monk seal nursing her almost-ready-to-wean pup as water pools about their rocky platform.
A Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) mom nursing her almost-ready-to-wean pup lay on an ocean shelf along the Kahuku Coastline in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
Shama thrush perched on a fence with a lighthouse blurred in the background.
A shama thrush (Copsychus malabaricus) greets visitors from the fence at the entrance to Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
Hawaiian monk seal holding pup with her flipper.
A Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) mom Kaiwi (RK96) holds her energetic pup Loli'i (RP96) with her flipper so he doesn't fall backward as he tries to crawl over her while they rest on a Waikiki Beach in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Melody Bentz
Green sea turtle munching on a moon jellyfish.
"I found this green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) munching on a moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) in the clear waters of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Michael Schilling
Sunbeams filtering through water column, casting a gentle spotlight on a barracuda.
"The sun shown through on this barracuda (Sphyraena) as I free dived in the shallow waters of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Michael Schilling
Horseshoe crabs mating in clear waters near a mangrove forest.
"I found these mating horseshoe crabs (Limulidae) near the mangrove forest at a tiny beach in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. These crabs are not only critically important to the Florida Keys ecosystem, but also to humans. We use their blood for research and the pharmaceutical industry." Photo: Michael Schilling
Rainbow parrotfish skimming just below the water's surface.
This rainbow parrotfish (Scarus guacamaia) was skimming the surface of the water at Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary munching on whatever it found. Photo: Michael Schilling
Orange staghorn coral against an azure background.
Critically endangered staghorn coral (Acropora cervicornis) has been decimated in the Florida Keys. Luckily, there are several passionate and dedicated organizations out planting these corals back into the ecosystem as seen here in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Michael Schilling
Rainbow parrotfish encircled by a thousands of fish.
Under the Alligator Reef Lighthouse in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, there are thousands of fish, including this rainbow parrotfish (Scarus guacamaia). Photo: Michael Schilling
School of schoolmasters and smallmouth grunts swimming through and around each other.
Amongst the school of schoolmasters (Lutjanus apodus) and smallmouth grunts (Haemulon chrysargyreum) in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Michael Schilling
Low tide revealing ochre sea stars and anemones.
Low tide on Beach 3, Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Ochre sea stars (Pisaster ochraceus) and anemones (Actiniaria). Photo: Mia Wyatt
Sunlight glinting off a Humpback whale's tail as spectators watch.
Sunglint off a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) tale in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Timothy Gallaudet
Two common dolphins chasing after a boat's wake.
Common dolphins (Delphinus) chase our wake as we head back toward Ventura. Photo: Timothy Gallaudet
Common dolphin breaching the expansive ocean.
A common dolphin (Delphinus) shows off his skills by our boat. Photo: Jessie Simon
Pelican taking flight, whipping a trail of water in its departure.
A pelican (Pelecanus) takes flight. Photo: Jessie Simon
Vested dog warily watches breaching dolphins.
Captain Zeus (canine) watches dolphins on the way back to the dock. Photo: Jessie Simon
A fireworm taking a stroll across some coral.
'Beauty with a Sting' - A fireworm (Hermodice carunculata) takes a stroll across the coral at Flower Gardens National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Paul Cater Deaton
Goliath grouper swimming about a structure akin to a sunken ship.
A goliath grouper (Epinephelus itajara) cruising for mate in Florida Key National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Peisen
Green sea turtle suspiciously eyeing the world outside its coral crevice.
"Good morning from green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), Benwood Wreck, in Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Peisen
Hawksbill emerging from between two coral-laden rocks.
Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) craving attention in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Peisen
A school of grunts swimming through the sunken USS Spiegel Grove.
Grunts (Haemulidae) on the USS Spiegel Grove, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Peisen
Flying crabs gliding through the pitch-black water column.
Flying crabs (Liocarcinus holsatus) in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Peisen
Flying crabs gliding through the pitch-black water column.
Flying crabs (Liocarcinus holsatus) in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Peisen
Hawaiian monk seal lovingly caressing sandy pup.
Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) in Oahu's North Shore. Photo: Leighton Lum
Two Hawaiian monk seals barking at each other on a sandy beach.
Hawaiian monk seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi) in Oahu's North Shore. Photo: Leighton Lum
Hawaiian monk seal resting head on bundle of brown seaweed.
Recently weaned Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) on Oahu's North Shore. Photo: Leighton Lum
New born Hawaiian monk seal climbing its sleeping mother's head.
Newly born Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) taken on Oahu's East Shore. Photo: Leighton Lum
Humpback whale tail diving back into watery depths.
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) off the west coast of Maui during the whale season. Photo: Leighton Lum
Several galapagos sharks cruising just underneath the water's surface.
A galapagos sharks (Carcharhinus galapagensis) off the North Shore of Oahu. Photo: Leighton Lum
Whip goby facing upside down on a whip coral.
Whip goby (Bryaninops amplus) on its whip coral home at Makena Landing, Maui in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Paul Rosenblum
A pair of whip gobies on a whip coral.
A pair of whip gobies (Bryaninops amplus) on their whip coral home at Ulua Beach, Maui in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Paul Rosenblum
Green sea turtle resting on a sandy bottom.
'Just Resting' - Hawaiian green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) at Kamaole Beach Park 1, Maui in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Carol Riccio
Imperial nudibranch ambling across a lichen-covered rock.
Imperial nudibranch (Hypselodoris imperialis) taken at 15 feet depth at Kealia Coastal Boardwalk in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Carol Riccio
Hawaiian swimming crabs facing each other under a vast array of corals.
Mating Hawaiian swimming crabs (Goniosupradens hawaiensis) at Kealia Coastal Boardwalk in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, at depth of 10 feet. Photo: Carol Riccio
Top-down view of green sea turtle's ember-patterned shell.
The most beautiful shell, seen on this young Hawaiian green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) swimming at Kamaole Beach Park 1 in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Carol Riccio
Smooth seahorse tying down to a green halimeda stalk.
Magical Smooth Seahorse (Hippocampus kuda) holding on to Halimeda seen at Kealia Coastal Boardwalk, Maui in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Carol Riccio
Humpback whale summoning a waterfall with a single lift of its tail.
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaengliae) tail waterfall in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Robin K. Craig
Seagull floating in algae-abundant waters, squawking.
"Pesky Tourists! A California gull (Larinae) in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary lets us know of its displeasure at our passing." Photo: Robin K. Craig
Longnose hawkfish sitting on its stony perch while brown algae sway in the background.
A longnose hawkfish (Oxycirrhites typus) sits on its perch in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Sanctuary. Photo: Susan Bryan
Hawaiian monk seal wiping its face with its flipper as it relaxes on a rocky shoreline.
Monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi) relaxing on the rocky shore of Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Susan Bryan
Green sea turtle angling its neck downward, preparing for a deeper dive.
Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) at the surface of the ocean in the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Sanctuary. Photo: Susan Bryan
A school of bigeye tevally swimming under the sun.
Bigeye trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus) in the sun at Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Susan Bryan
Goldlace nudibranch shuffling along a rock patterned with reds and pinks.
Endemic goldlace nudibranch (Halgerda terramtuentis) found only in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Susan Bryan
A school of brown surgeonfish out in the open drifting under the sun.
Brown surgeonfish (Acanthurus nigrofuscus) in the sun at Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Susan Bryan
Yellow-spotted guard crab fiercely protecting the coral and its next generation.
Yellow-spotted guard crab (Trapezia flavopunctata) guarding the coral and its next generation in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Susan Bryan
Thick-horned nudibranch sporting orange tips and blue accents along its body.
"Tide pooling in and around the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve sometimes reveals the prettiest creatures- in this case, a thick-horned nudibranch (Hermissenda crassicornis), of which this little bug was not the only one found that day." Photo: Faith Schell
Seals perched on exposed basalts while they sleepily inspect their human visitors from afar.
"Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) like to perch on the exposed basalts in the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve, sometimes they charm spectators with a little wink and a wiggle." Photo: Faith Schell
Close up of giant green anemone's blue hues centered in their stinging tentacles.
The giant green anemone (Anthopleura xanthogrammica) is one of the more common creature sightings when tide pooling at the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve; the shoreline is composed mostly of basalt and ancient lava flows, which these anemones cling too and call home, regardless of the tidal phase. Photo: Faith Schell
Queen angelfish slowly backing up into a long-spined urchin.
'Don't Back Up' - Queen angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris) and long-spined urchin (Diadema antillarum) at Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Roger Veteto
Great white shark flashing a sharp-toothed smile.
'Great White Grin' - Great white shark (Carcharhinus carcharius) in Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Taken under NOAA permit. Photo: David McGuire
Close up view of great white shark's ampullae of lorenzini.
Great white shark (Carcharhinus carcharius) in Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Taken under NOAA permit. Photo: David McGuire
Ocean sunfish floating on the water's surface.
'Sun Fish Stare' - Ocean sunfish (Mola mola) in Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: David McGuire
Northern fulmar brisking striding across water.
'Walk on Water' - Northern fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) in Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: David McGuire
California sea lions balancing on a yellow lighthouse rimmed with barnacles.
'Hanging Out' - California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) in Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: David McGuire
A pod of Risso's dolphins flaunting their dorsal fins.
'Ghosts of SEFI' - Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: David McGuire
School of mahi-mahi swimming through the deep blue sea, light softly slipping between the waves.
Mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) swimming at Woods Wall just south of American Shoal Light House. Photo: Jessica Connell
Massive school of mahi-mahi swimming through the deep blue sea, light softly slipping between the waves.
Mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) in a massive school swimming at Woods Wall, just south of American Shoal Lighthouse. Photo: Jessica Connell
Roseate spoonbill spreading its blush pink wings against a light grey sky.
Roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) flying at Old Finds Bight in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jessica Connell
Morning light shining on boulder star coral and schooling french grunts.
Morning light shinning on boulder star coral (Orbicella annularis) with juvenile French grunts (Haemulon flavolineatum) schooling across Man Reef in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Jessica Connell
Schools of mangrove and schoolmaster snappers together with bluestriped grunts swim about a sunken structure lost to time.
"This photo was snapped at Alligator Reef located in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The lighthouse pictured above that used to be used to protect ships and sailors is now a monument to protecting the aquatic life below, pictured are schoolmaster snappers (Lutjanus apodus) and bluestriped grunts (Haemulon sciurus)." Photo: Michael Sipos
Humpback whale breaching lapis-colored waters.
Breaching humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) during a whale watching trip in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Sandra Cunha-Rocha
Long-billed curlew eyeing its surroundings carefully, leg propped slightly in a relaxed manner.
Long-billed curlew (Numenius americanus) looking for its next meal. Photo: Sandra Cunha-Rocha
Sea otter enjoying bright orange crab.
Sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) enjoying lunch at the end of Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey Bay. Photo: Sandra Cunha-Rocha
Risso's dolphins leaping out of the water, flaunting their unique patterns.
Leaping Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in Monterey Bay. Photo: Sandra Cunha-Rocha
Pod of orcas cruising through churning waters
Pod of orcas (Orcinus orca), cruising through Monterey Bay. Photo: Sandra Cunha-Rocha
Black-footed albatross soaring above the waves
Soaring black-footed albatross (Phoebastria nigripes). Photo: Sandra Cunha-Rocha
Pod of orcas spouting mist from their blowholes.
Orca (Orcinus orca) cruising in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Sandra Cunha-Rocha
Assortment of different colored and shaped rocks.
Tidepool at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. Photo: Sharon Steckline
Black-footed albatross dipping its massive wing with a determined glint in its eyes.
'Formal Skywear' - Black-footed albatross (Phoebastria nigripes) in Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve, Oahu, HI. Photo: Sean T.C. O'Malley
Albatross fledgling soaking in the sunset.
Albatross (Diomedeidae) fledgling soaking in the sunset at Midway Atoll in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Taylor Williams
White tern pair looking out towards some wild bushes while perched atop a white railing.
White tern (Gygis alba) pair at Midway Atoll in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Taylor Williams
Albatross flaunting a funky hairdo.
An albatross (Diomedeidae) at Midway Atoll in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Taylor Williams
White tern chick learning how to take flight amongst a spread of foliage and flowers.
White tern (Gygis alba) chick learning how to take flight at Midway Atoll in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Taylor Williams
Albatross fledgling posing against a backdrop of pink flowers.
Portrait of an albatross (Diomedeidae) fledgling at Midway Atoll in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Photo: Taylor Williams
Island scrub jay looking off to the side atop a black, beam-like structure.
Island scrub jay (Aphelocoma insularis) at Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Taylor Williams
Laysan albatross dipping its wing against a dark grey sky.
A laysan albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis) effortlessly making its way towards our boat as we were parked to observe some nearby black-footed albatrosses (Phoebastria nigripes) in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Patrick Sysiong
Close up of an inquisitive black-footed albatross and its tube nose.
This inquisitive black-footed albatross (Phoebastria nigripes) made an approach to our boat thinking we were a fishing vessel, giving great views of their tube nose. Taken in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Patrick Sysiong
Close up of an inquisitive black-footed albatross and its tube nose.
A black-footed albatross (Phoebastria nigripes) gave some great and close views of its majestic wingspan in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Patrick Sysiong
Black-footed albatross parading its majestic wingspan against a dark grey sky.
"California condor (Gymnogpys californianus) 204, "Amigo," was pretty cooperative and gave some amazing looks as he perched to wait for the fog to clear along the Big Sur coastline in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Patrick Sysiong
Lunge-feeding humpback whale utilizing the abundance of fish.
The fish were aplenty in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary as evident by the many lunge-feeding humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). Photo: Patrick Sysiong
White Risso's dolphin standing out brilliantly against its pod and smooth waters.
"The white Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) known as "Casper" was giving some great looks and was relatively easy to spot even among the large pod of Risso's dolphins he was hanging with in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Patrick Sysiong
White Risso's dolphin breaching the surface.
"'Casper,' a white Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), was somewhat easy to follow as you can make out his lighter coloration just under the water's surface. Taken in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Patrick Sysiong
A pod of orcas loudly proclaiming their presence with a breach; a single gull watches them.
"Orca (Orcinus orca) pods 58s and 200s were circling the area as they were feeding on a carcass of a kill they likely made that morning in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Patrick Sysiong
Three orcas breaching the water while a lone Seagull watches.
"The orca (Orcinus orca) pod known as the CA 51 'friendlies' were giving some close passes as they were observing some of the boats in the area. Taken in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Patrick Sysiong
Black and white shot of a purple-striped Jellyfish; its unique pattern is made all the more obvious and striking.
"The purple striped jelly (Chrysaora colorata), shown here in black and white at the Breakwater Cove Marina in Monterey, graces our shores on occasion and has a beautiful striking pattern. Best to admire from a distance, its sting isn't fatal but can be very painful." Photo: Topher Mueller
An opalescent nudibranch meanders over an empty mussel shell.
An opalescent nudibranch (Hermissenda crassicornis) meanders over an empty mussel shell near the fuel docks in Breakwater Cove Marina, Monterey. Photo: Topher Mueller
An opalescent nudibranch skirts the top of a Giant Rock Scallop.
An opalescent nudibranch (Hermissenda crassicornis) skirts the top of a giant rock scallop (Crassadoma gigantea) near the fuel dock's at Monterey's Breakwater Cove Marina. Photo: Topher Mueller
San Diego dorid nudibranch navigating a field of small acorn barnacles.
A San Diego dorid nudibranch (Diaulula sandiegensis) navigating a field of small acorn barnacles (likely Chthamalus fissus) on a wharf piling in Monterey's Breakwater Cove Marina. Photo: Topher Mueller
Doto nudibranch moving along an angled, brown, pole-like structure.
"Doto nudibranch (Dotidae) thrive in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary - but you'll miss them unless you have help! This species, Doto columbiana, is smaller than a grain of rice with details that only the right camera equipment can capture. Seen at the Breakwater Cove Marina boat launch in Monterey." Photo: Topher Mueller
Doto nudibranch relaxing on a brown, pole-like structure while white, transulcent grains float about.
"Doto nudibranch (Dotidae) thrive in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary - but you'll miss them unless you have help! This species, doto columbiana, is smaller than a grain of rice with details that only the right camera equipment can capture. Seen at the Breakwater Cove Marina boat launch in Monterey." Photo: Topher Mueller
Sunburst anemona situated next to a clump of sea grapes.
"This sunburst anemone (Anthopleura sola) was captured at Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf, and is situated next to a clump of sea grapes, a type of red algae (Botryocladia pseudodichotoma)." Photo: Topher Mueller
Three-lined aeolid resting on a kelp frond with a coiled string of eggs.
A striking rose anemone (Cribrinopsis albopunctata) in full display, captured under the docks at Monterey's Breakwater Cove Marina. Photo: Topher Mueller
Striking rose anemone lilting in the water.
A striking rose anemone (Cribrinopsis albopunctata) in full display, captured under the docks at Monterey's Breakwater Cove Marina. Photo: Topher Mueller
Purple shore crab crawling on a rocky beach.
"This was the largest purple shore crab (Hemigrapsus nudus) I've ever seen, with a carapace almost 2" across! It was crawling on a rocky beach in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. We hiked there from Lake Ozette." Photo: Wendy Feltham
A flock of whimbrels flying over a sandy beach littered with kelp bunches.
'Whimbrel in Flight' - "This flock (Numenius phaeopus) was foraging along the edge of the ocean in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, then flying together to another spot. We hiked to this beach from Lake Ozette." Photo: Wendy Feltham
Northern fur seal pup atop tan rocks, a sprinkle of seawater dampening its coat.
"Home! Northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus) at Point Lobos Nature Reserve, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary." Photo: Yvonne P. Wright
Spotted moray eel flashing its teeth and splotchy throat.
Spotted moray eel (Gymnothorax moringa) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Zane Shapiro
Sharpnose puffer huddled between canary-colored anemones and dark grey rocks.
Sharpnose puffer (Canthigaster rostrata) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Zane Shapiro
Strawberry grouper peering out of its anemone-decorated den.
Strawberry grouper (Cephalopholis spiloparaea) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Zane Shapiro
Close up of a lionfish against a colorfully red backdrop.
The invasive lionfish (Pterois) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Zane Shapiro
Humpback whale falling lackadaisically back into the water.
Wild and free a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) breaches in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Breaching humpback whale splaying its flippers outward.
"From the depths, this large adult humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) continues to breach over and over." Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Humpback whale tail careening out of the water.
A large humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) throws its tail. Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Close up of an opalescent nudibranch during low tide.
A glimpse at an opalescent nudibranch (Hermissenda crassicornis) during low tide. Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Breaching humpback whale observing the world above water.
An amazing look at a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) taking a look around above the surface. Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Humpback whale jetting straight up and out of the water, water tassles stringing down its side.
A humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) launches out of the water also known as a breach. Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
HHarbor seal pup resting on a bed of lichen, curiously gazing into the distance.
A curious harbor seal pup (Phoca vitulina) resting at a favorite haul out site. Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Barnacle-riddled humpback whale flipping backwards.
"Seeing a breach never gets old! Pictured is an energetic humpback whale calf (Megaptera novaeangliae)." Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Brandt's cormorant displaying its jewel-blue throat and eyes.
A striking portrait of a beautiful Brandt's cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) during their nesting season in Monterey Bay. Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Killer whale lunging out of water, flippers raised in celebration.
"Male transient killer whale (Orcinus orca) CA50B "Jimmy" does a stunning breach celebrating a successful hunt on a California sea lion (Zalophus californianus)." Photo: Kaelyn DeYoung
Over-under shot of coral heads in crystal clear ocean water.
Coral heads (Montastraea) at the Grecian Rocks at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Caitlyn Mentel
A Spanish shawl nudibranch on rocks and corals.
A Spanish shawl nudibranch (Flabellinopsis iodinea) at Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Laura Gray
A Spanish shawl nudibranch on the edge of a reef with kelp in the background.
A Spanish shawl nudibranch (Flabellinopsis iodinea) at Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Laura Gray
A variety of seabirds peacefully coexisting on a grey, sandy beach.
Bird's day at Sunset Beach with brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis) and gulls (Larinae). Photo: Leslie Rootsaert
Scuba diver culling a purple urchin from a giant kelp forest.
"Tanker's Reef Giant Kelp Restoration Project in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Diver culls a purple urchin (Strongylocentrus purpuratus) to promote the growth of giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera)." Photo: Jenny Adler
Scuba diver taking note of a colony of urchins collecting on a rock's surface.
Diver counts urchins (Strongylocentrus purpuratus) at Whaler's Cove in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Ian Markham
Massive coral head dwarfing a scuba diver in the distance.
Scuba diver swimming next to massive coral head with mountainous star coral (Orbicella faveolata) in the background of Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
Green-eyed shrimp parading its famous green eyes and spotty colorings.
Green eye shrimp (Caridea) macro shot in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
Coral polyp bordered with vivid green outstretching tentacle-like structures.
Supermacro shot of a coral polyp, likely a great star coral (Montastrea cavernosa) in Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Justin Wallace
Three Risso's dolphins surfacing dark grey-blue waters.
A pod of Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in Moss Landing, CA. Photo: Jody Parker
Green anemone ebbing with the water, a bluish-green light overcasting its features.
Green anemone (Anthopleura xanthogrammica) in Aña Nuevo, CA. Photo: Jody Parker
Brown seaweed splayed over the vibrant blues and greens of the ocean.
Bull kelp (Nereocystis) in Big Sur, CA. Photo: Jody Parker
A seal contentedly resting on a rocky platform.
Happy harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) in San Mateo County. Photo: Jody Parker
School of fish spiraling about a shark's bright white tail.
'Under Water Dreams' in Monterey National Marine Sanctuary. "The bright, light shark tail swimming with other small fishes generating spiral flowing waters was like under water dream visions." Photo: Clarissa Cervantes
A sanderling picking for something in the sand.
A sanderling (Calidris alba) on Asilomar State Beach, in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Brenda Wilson
A sanderling standing in shallow water.
A sanderling (Calidris alba) on Asilomar State Beach, in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Brenda Wilson
Close up of the head of a wolf eel.
Wolf eel (Anarrhichthys ocellatus) in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Bruce Sudweeks
School of fish swimming in a kelp forest near the top of the ocean.
Blacksmith damselfish (Chromis punctipinnis) in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Bruce Sudweeks

Please note that we may use any of the photos we received for this contest on our website, on social media, and in other NOAA and National Marine Sanctuary Foundation publications. We will provide credit to photographers whenever we use any of the photos. Organizations other than NOAA and the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation may use photographs submitted in this contest to promote sustainable and responsible recreation in the National Marine Sanctuary System. These photos are not for sale and are not for commercial use unless prior permission is arranged.