icon of sun setting behind ocean waves

Our Ocean

Explore our curated list of ocean topics to learn about NOAA's role in protecting, exploring, and conserving this vast resource.

an infographic on ways to help our ocean

How can you help our ocean?

Here are 10 simple things you can do at home, around town, on the water, or anywhere!
Squat lobster on deep coral.

Ocean Exploration

The deep ocean holds many mysteries that researchers have only just begun to recognize.
A coral reef with fish swimming through it

Corals

Coral reefs support more species than any other marine environment and rival rainforests in their biodiversity.
View of the Environmental Data Server (EDS) map

Ocean Data Standards

See how NOAA data standards facilitate research and development and create opportunities for 'big data' projects about our ocean.
A jelly fish swims by

Sanctuaries

Protecting Important Marine Ecosystems Around the Nation.
Alt Tag

Marine Protected Areas

The majority of marine protected areas in the United States are multiple-use sites, meaning fishing, boating, surfing, diving, and other recreational activities are allowed.
A jellyfish swims by

Earth Day and Our Ocean

Ten simple choices for a healthier planet.
What do you know about our ocean?

Celebrate 30 Days of Ocean in June

Join us as we celebrate and learn about our world ocean during National Ocean Month.
Weird Ocean Phenomena

Weird Ocean Phenomena

The ocean may conjure images of beautiful waves, shipwrecks, and marine life. But strange things happen in the ocean as a result of weather and currents.
ocean waves, image courtesy of pexels.com

Common Misconceptions about the Ocean

Misconceptions about the ocean can lead people to the wrong conclusions about conservation, climate change, and marine life. There are quite a few widely accepted ideas about the ocean that are not accurate. Here are the facts behind some common ocean myths. How many do you know?