The pandemic has brought thousands of new visitors to Pillar Point Reef and the increased harvesting is taking its toll on the ecology of the area.
The San Mateo MPA Collaborative and California Academy of Sciences is launching this new initiative to inspire curiosity and discourage unsustainable harvesting practices of marine life, to help the recovery of wildlife in the area and ensure a productive, biodiverse reef for generations to come.

Apply to be a volunteer

We are looking for enthusiastic friendly adults (18+) to volunteer to talk to visitors about 3-5 times a year on Pillar Point Reef in Half Moon Bay during really low tides.
Apply to join the volunteer program
There is a two day training to help you get all the knowledge and techniques you’ll need. If you fill in the volunteer application form, we'll let you know when we schedule the next training
More information
Apply to volunteer
Fishing License information
- CDFW Ocean Sport Fishing Regulations
- Download the regulatins handbook
- You need a license to fish or collect invertebrates and other creatures at Pillar Point Reef. Buy a license online
- … or buy a license locally at Ace Hardware on Main street in HMB or the Sportfishing and Tackle shop near Johnson Pier in El Granada