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What is a Hope Spot?

A Hope Spot is a place in the ocean critical to its health, biodiversity, or connectivity—from coral reefs and kelp forests to seamounts and coastal waters. Identified and championed by local leaders, each site is grounded in science and shaped by community priorities.

Some Hope Spots strengthen existing marine protected areas, while others help close gaps and build momentum for new protections.

Mission Blue® provides scientific guidance, support, and strategic connections across the Hope Spot network. Through the Hope Spot Council, global experts review nominations to ensure rigorous standards and lasting conservation impact.

Explore Hope SpotsMeet the Council
Alboran Sea Hope Spot © Eco & Dive

Nominate a Hope Spot

Interested in nominating a Hope Spot? Learn about the process, Hope Spot Council review, and how Mission Blue supports Champions from proposal to protection.

Nominate
Ocean Cay Hope Spot. © MSC Foundation

“The question is not whether we can make a difference. It is whether we will”

Dr. Sylvia Earle

Mission Blue CEO & Founder

© Felix Kunze

Hope Spots Making Waves Today

Highlighting progress, leadership, and growing protection across our global network of Hope Spots.

East Africa

Maputaland

East Africa

Walter’s Shoal

East Africa

Coastal Waters of the Black River District

West Africa

St. Helena Island

East Africa

Coral Seamount

West Africa

Tenerife-La Gomera

East Africa

Aliwal Shoal

The Champions Driving Change

These are the people driving change for the places they love. Explore their stories to learn what Mission Blue means to them and see what hope in action looks like.

Meet the Champions

“Being a Hope Spot Champion empowers me and encourages my belief that everyone can make a difference in creating a better world.”

Aline Aguiar

Chief Scientist

Mar Adentro Institut

Learn more

“The efficiency of the Mission Blue program helps areas around the globe. It’s a one-of-a-kind program that we should continue to support.”

Rili Djohani

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Coral Triangle Center

Learn more

“The local community is increasingly recognizing Golfo Dulce’s global importance and the impact of their actions, fostering a strong sense of pride.”

Andrés López

Co-Founder & Director

Misión Tiburón

Learn more

At Least 30% Protection by 2030

By 2030, the global commitment is clear: protect at least 30% of the ocean and advance active restoration across another 30%—safeguarding what remains and recovering what has been lost.

Mission Blue works to ensure this goal is not achieved on paper alone. Through the Hope Spot network, we prioritise highly protected areas, strengthen effective management, and accelerate restoration, aligning science, community leadership, and global advocacy to deliver measurable, lasting outcomes for the ocean.

Get InvolvedExplore Hope Spots
170+Hope Spots worldwide
200+Active Champions
115+Countries with Hope Spots
37M+Square kilometers of ocean protected
© Citizens of the Reef