Olympic Coast

Olympic Coast Sanctuary exhibit at the New England Aquarium
Olympic Coast Sanctuary exhibit
Discover the marine life of the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, including anemones and the remarkably intelligent giant Pacific octopus, the world’s largest species of octopus.

Know Before You Go

This exhibit features marine life found in the shallower tidepools and kelp forests of the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, which protects 135 miles of shoreline along Washington State.

  • The Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary is home to a large variety of seabirds, marine mammals, fishes, and invertebrates, including the largest known species of octopus, the giant Pacific octopus.
  • Aquarium educators are often present to provide in-depth information about this important ecosystem and other marine protected areas (MPAs). Feel free to ask them if you have any questions!
ABOUT THE HABITAT

What is a Marine Sanctuary?

A marine sanctuary like the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary is a type of marine protected area (MPA). There are legal limits on human activity in the sanctuary to conserve its important ecosystem. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is an 842-square-mile marine protected area right in our backyard—only about 21 miles from Boston.

Anemone
Anemone
CONSERVATION CONSIDERATION

Join the Movement to Protect 30% of our Planet by 2030

30x30 is a scientifically informed global movement with the goal of protecting at least 30% of the planet’s lands, waters, and ocean by 2030. This initiative aims to prioritize protection of diverse ecosystems in the greatest need. Through their research, our Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life scientists help inform what vital biodiverse areas to protect.

Giant Pacific Octopus on exhibit
Giant Pacific octopus in the Olympic Coast Sanctuary Exhibit

Take a Look Around

  • Olympic Coast exhibit
    Olympic Coast exhibit
  • Tiger rockfish
    Tiger rockfish
  • Olympic Coast exhibit
    Olympic Coast exhibit
  • Giant Pacific Octopus on exhibit
    Giant Pacific Octopus on exhibit

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Become a Member

As a member of the New England Aquarium, you have access to 10,000 marine animals, 70 awe-inspiring exhibits, and exclusive events all year. But that is just the beginning.

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