Laguna Beach is home to some of the most ecologically rich and visually stunning coves and shorelines in California. Much of the city’s coast is already safeguarded by the Laguna Beach State Marine Reserve (SMR) and the adjacent no-take State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA). However, a critical stretch of coastline in South Laguna -- from Table Rock to the southern city limits -- remains unprotected.

This section contains fragile kelp forest and rocky reef ecosystems, vital habitat for the Garibaldi (California’s state marine fish), spiny lobster, sea bass, abalone, and other marine mammals. Across California, kelp forests have declined sharply in the past decade due to warming waters, marine heatwaves, overgrazing by sea urchins, and human impacts. In South Laguna, lobster traps, boat anchoring, and fishing pressure damage the rocky seafloor that kelp needs to grow, slowing recovery.

Without stronger protections, these habitats are at risk of long-term loss.

Extending the SMCA boundary to the Southern City Limits Will:

• Support ecological recovery: No-take MPAs are scientifically proven to increase the abundance, size, and diversity of marine species within their boundaries. This benefits adjacent non-protected areas through a spillover effect. 
• Create a continuous protected coastline: A single, consistent no-take zone across all of Laguna Beach will eliminate confusing patchwork rules, improving compliance and public understanding.
• Simplify enforcement: Uniform boundaries will make it easier for lifeguards, wardens, and the public to follow and enforce MPA regulations.
• Boost ecosystem resilience: Healthy kelp forests help buffer the coast against climate impacts, sequester carbon, and provide critical habitat for commercially and recreationally valuable species.

Current Status

The California Department of Fish & Wildlife is currently reviewing a petition under its Decadal Review process to extend the SMCA protections southward (2023-24MPA-AM). See the proposed change on a map via the CDFW ArcGIS page HERE.  

Why It Matters

South Laguna’s kelp forests are part of a broader network of MPAs along the California coast -- a globally recognized conservation achievement. Strengthening protections here would help sustain marine biodiversity, enhance coastal resilience, and secure healthy ocean ecosystems for future generations.

Please add your name to support protecting South Laguna’s marine ecosystems, ensuring Laguna’s coast remains a sanctuary for marine life and a legacy for Californians.