Overview
Carmel Pinnacles State Marine Reserve (SMR) is located off the Monterey Peninsula, about one mile southwest of Pescadero Point. Encompassing roughly half a square mile of offshore waters, this marine protected area (MPA) protects impressive granite spires and kelp forests and contains dozens of species of rockfish and invertebrates. The diverse underwater landscape draws recreational divers from around the world, with depths ranging from about 70 to 220 feet. Invertebrates like anemones, barnacles, and chestnut cowries occupy the rocks at shallower depths. As depth increases, cabezon, lingcod, kelp greenlings, and larger predators become abundant. An array of rockfish including China rockfish, vermilion rockfish, black rockfish, blue rockfish, and copper rockfish can be found swimming between the rocky spires that rise up from the seafloor.
No take is allowed within the boundaries of Carmel Pinnacles SMR, but anglers can fish for finfish within Carmel Bay State Marine Conservation Area, a short distance to the east.
Regulations
It is unlawful to injure, damage, take, or possess any living, geological, or cultural marine resource.
California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 632(b)(79)(opens in new tab)
Quick Facts
MPA size: 0.53 square miles
Depth range: 69 to 223 feet
Habitat composition*:
- Rock: 0.40 square miles
- Sand/mud: 0.13 square miles
*Habitat calculations are based on 3-dimensional area and may exceed the total MPA area listed above.