The Ocean Exploration Center at Point Reyes National Seashore depicts life below the water's surface/NPS

The coastal and marine ecosystem off north-central California is one of the biologically richest ocean zones on the planet, but the sea life is largely hidden beneath the water’s surface. The just opened Ocean Exploration Center at Point Reyes National Seashore provides a new, expanded exhibit space to view and learn about the area.

The National Park Service, along with NOAA’s Cordell Bank and Greater Farallones national marine sanctuaries, are hosting a ribbon-cutting at the Point Reyes Lighthouse Visitor Center today, which is World Oceans Day. The stairs to the lighthouse will be open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Bringing the story of ocean health to life for park visitors is so important,” Superintendent Cicely Muldoon said in a release. “We are excited to open this new exhibit during the National Park Service Centennial year.”

The Ocean Exploration Center features 3-D models of ocean mammals, sharks, and seabirds suspended from the ceiling, painted murals depicting life below the surface, and informative panels describing ocean wildlife and habitats off the coast. A large picture window offers a stunning view of the Great Beach, protected from the legendary winds of the point.

“This is an iconic location within a treasured national seashore that is rich with maritime heritage. This site perched above the ocean is a great place to teach visitors about the incredible ocean ecosystem beyond our shores that are recognized globally as the United Nations Golden Gate Biosphere Reserve,” Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary Superintendent Dan Howard said in a release.