More of these sediments accumulated until a dramatic change began to take place on Earth during the Pleistocene Epoch, between 2 million and 8,000 years ago. It was during this time that the area which is now Gray's Reef was exposed land and the shoreline was as much as 80 miles east of its present location. As a result of this exposure, the sediments there became solidified into porous limestone sandstone rock. As the glacial ice melted, the water flowed back towards the sea, filling the basins back to their original levels. Profile of Gray's Reef Geological Cross Section Profile of Gray's Reef Habitats top Human Use and Values Gray's Reef is a popular recreational fishing and sport diving destinations along the Georgia coast.
Sport fishing occurs year-round but at different levels of intensity.
Commercial fishing is restricted, as are military, mineral extraction, and ocean dumping activities. Little commercial shipping occurs at Gray's Reef. While the site has supported a variety of studies it currently supports reef fish and invertebrate programs. A resource characterization is in progress. Final designation as a National Marine Sanctuary came in January 1981.