We are all drawn to the ocean's edge to wonder at life's most basic questions, and marvel at the ocean's astonishing diversity. Bottom samples from the Sanctuary help researchers map communities of bottom-dwelling organisms. Small charter boat operators lead visitors to the isolated waters near Cape Flattery, home to seabird colonies, gray whales, sea otters and sea lions. Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary is recognized for profound its ecological value.
Maritime commerce is an important use of the ocean.
The Sanctuary serves as an important living classroom for students. Human presence on the Olympic Coast predates historical record and attests to the subtle understandings of the marine environment. Fishing is an allowable use of sanctuary resources. 1853 Survey of the Olympic Coast by Lt James Alden. Juan de Fuca was the name of a Greek ships' pilot who reported visiting what is now known as the the Strait of Juan de Fuca in the 1590s.