design a network of protected areas that would preserve sensitive sea life and habitats while enhancing recreation, study and education opportunities. The south coast marine protected areas went into effect on January first 2012. Geography and natural features San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA and Matlahuayl SMR are marine protected areas that extend offshore from La Jolla in San Diego County on California’s south coast. San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA is bounded by the mean high tide line and straight lines connecting the following points in the order listed: and . Matlahuayl SMR is bounded by the mean high tide line and straight lines connecting the following points in the order listed: and . Habitat and wildlife San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA and Matlahuayl SMR protect most of the unique Scripps Canyon branch of La Jolla's submarine canyon system and the southernmost natural California mussel bed. The area is a hotbed of biodiversity and sustains a thriving ecosystem. The areas encompass four distinct habitat zones; rocky reef, kelp forest, sandy flat, and deepwater canyon. In a study focused around the benefits of MPAs, it was found that throughout the La Jolla region, there were half of the known California fish species present. This study also found that 265 species spread across 95 families were found within these La Jolla adjacent MPAs. This marine protected area complex is among the oldest in California. Though the boundaries were recently changed just slightly under the Marine Life Protection Act, the area has been protected since 1970 when the City of San Diego proclaimed it an underwater park and ecological reserve and is known as the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park. Recreation and nearby attractions Nearby La Jolla Shores is one of San Diego’s most popular beach going destinations. The long, wide stretch of sand provides plenty of room for families to picnic and build sand castles, set up volleyball nets, or a game of Frisbee. A vehicle friendly small boat and kayak launch is located at the end of Avenida De La Playa. Local companies offer tours that include kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and trips though the famed sea caves beneath the cliffs. Recreational fishing from a kayak is especially popular just outside the protected areas. For a more tucked away experience, visitors can find Blacks Beach a little farther north along the coast. The easy access makes La Jolla Cove a superb dive location. The abundant