What's Current in
Ocean and Beaches
On the water and on the sand, our research explores ocean health and evolution so we can better understand how to protect and preserve the largest area of Earth.
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NOAA Satellites
Sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean were already far higher than average by the first week of June 2026 due to El Niño.
El Niño has become more intense over last 40 years than the previous 1,000 years
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Lopazanski et al.
The Galapagos Marine Reserve is one of many marine protected areas around the globe that safeguards biodiversity, cultural heritage and marine resources.
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Karina Johnston
Beach bur, a native plant that helped to form dunes on a section of Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles
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Elif Bayraktar via iStock
Diatoms are one of the largest groups of phytoplankton, which serve as a foundation of the ocean’s food web.
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Angela YT Chan
Angela YT Chan's collage series is featured in the "Holding Sway" collection of photo essays
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Chris Honeyman
A research diver conducts periodic monitoring of a kelp forest marine protected area
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Split Second Stock
Fishermen and regulatory agencies will need to adapt when marine heatwaves impact the ranges and population levels of targeted species.
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Jeff Liang
Professor Deron Burkepile observes coral in the process of bleaching in the reefs around Moorea.
