The Naples SMCA is bounded by the mean high tide line and straight lines connecting the following points in the order listed: This small MPA has been designed to provide protection for a highly productive, unique offshore rocky reef with exceptional substrate diversity and relief, low-impact rural adjacent land uses, intertidal areas, surfgrass, kelp forest, and a harbor seal haulout.
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.
Shoreline visits feature spectacular tidepooling along low tide-exposed “hog back” reef areas, and a Harbor Seal colony has appeared recently along the shore.
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.
Similar studies in marine protected areas located off of the Santa Barbara Channel Islands have already detected gradual improvements in fish size and number.