The identification of Aquaculture Opportunity Area (AOA) options requires a transparent, science-based spatial planning approach that integrates environmental, social, economic, and regulatory considerations. This work describes the NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) spatial planning framework for identifying and evaluating AOA options for sustainable marine aquaculture development in the U.S. The process combines geospatial analyses, best available science, and extensive stakeholder engagement to assess spatial suitability and potential conflicts. Environmental data layers—such as oceanographic conditions, habitat sensitivity, and protected resources—are analyzed alongside human use patterns including fishing activity, navigation, defense operations, and energy infrastructure. Regulatory and management constraints are incorporated to ensure alignment with existing legal authorities and ocean policies. Iterative engagement with Tribal nations, state and federal agencies, industry, non-governmental organizations, and coastal communities informs the refinement of spatial criteria and the evaluation of tradeoffs. The outcome is a set of spatially explicit AOA options that highlight areas with high aquaculture potential and relatively low user conflict, while acknowledging uncertainty and data gaps. This planning process is intended to support informed decision-making, reduce permitting risk, and advance environmentally responsible aquaculture development consistent with NOAA’s mission to steward ocean resources and foster a sustainable economic growth.