will delight the advanced diver. Numerous shipwrecks, many uncharted, also occur here. Remote surfing spots, low-tide beach hiking (beware private property including patrolled military area) and viewing of southern sea otters are also available. Longer range SCUBA dive operations may be available. Jalama Beach County Park is the nearest coastal access to the north with Gaviota State Park the closest coastal access to the south. Lompoc is the nearest town and has numerous eateries and modest outfitting services. Point Conception SMR prohibits the take of all living marine resources. California’s marine protected areas encourage recreational and educational uses of the ocean. Activities such as kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and swimming are allowed. Scientific monitoring As specified by the Marine Life Protection Act, select marine protected areas along California’s south coast are being monitored by scientists to track their effectiveness and learn more about ocean health. Similar studies in marine protected areas located off of the Santa Barbara Channel Islands have already detected gradual improvements in fish size and number. References External links Marine Life Protection Act Initiative CalOceans Point Conception Lighthouse Jalama Beach Gaviota State Park Lompoc CA Protected areas of Santa Barbara County, California Protected areas established in 2010 2010 establishments in California