Naples Reef has drawn praise from California Diving News as among the most scenic coastal dives available in southern California. Access via small boat or kayak is possible from either El Capitan State Beach to the north or from the Bacara Resort to the south – each requires a several mile trip over water. Recently, the adjacent Santa Barbara Ranch relaxed access rules so that a lengthy overland access to the coastal section of the protected area is possible, although routes and trails are informal and require a hazardous cliff descent. On the reef, diving and snorkeling are fantastic as the complex bottom structure hosts an extraordinary diversity of marine life. Surge and current are often significant however. Shoreline visits feature spectacular tidepooling along low tide-exposed “hog back” reef areas, and a Harbor Seal colony has appeared recently along the shore. Points and reefs nearshore can produce rideable surf in the right conditions as well. Natural recreational opportunities are the mainstay along the Gaviota Coast, with a string of State Parks and Beaches dotting this rural, agricultural coastline. Refreshments and minimal supplies are available in-season at the El Capitan and Refugio State Beaches, which also provide beach and hiking opportunities. Urban amenities are virtually absent beyond a 15-mile drive south to the greater Santa Barbara area. Naples SMCA prohibits the take of all living marine resources except that recreational spearfishing for pelagic species including white seabass is permitted, as is kelp harvesting. However, 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. See also Naples Reef References External links Marine Life Protection Act Initiative CalOceans El Capitan State Beach Bacara Resort Ca Diving News, Naples Reef Gaviota Coast Conservancy Refugio State Beach Protected areas of Santa Barbara County, California Protected areas established in 2010 2010 establishments in California