National Marine Sanctuary
Gray’s Reef
About this sanctuary
Sixteen miles east of the Georgia coast between Savannah and Brunswick, Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary is one of the largest near-shore live-bottom reefs in the southeastern US. Considered an oasis in that region, its rocky habitat of ledges and seafloor attracts more than 200 species of fish and 400 species of invertebrates.
Gray’s Reef is a popular destination for recreational anglers, boaters and experienced divers. In 2011, the local community designated the southern third of the Sanctuary as a protected area for research only. Activities in this research area are limited in order to study and compare the impact of human activities on sanctuary marine resources and to inform future management and conservation strategies.
Travel guide coming soon
The Foundation is actively expanding sanctuary content. This page will grow as the Foundation publishes travel guide entries, related stories, and event calendars for Gray’s Reef.
In the meantime, you can support this sanctuary directly, sign up for our newsletter to be notified when new content is published, or take action on current advocacy campaigns.