EXPLORE CALIFORNIA
THE GOLDEN STATE
SCUBA DIVING IN CALIFORNIA
Scuba diving in California offers diverse underwater experiences, from exploring the kelp forests of Monterey Bay to discovering vibrant marine life in the Channel Islands. The state's coastal waters are teeming with sea lions, colorful fish, and fascinating shipwrecks, making it a prime destination for divers of all levels.
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GETTING THERE
Passports
There is no passport required for U.S. citizens to travel to California.
Airports
California's top scuba diving hotspots are easily accessible via major airports: Monterey Bay is closest to Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), Channel Islands and Catalina Island are best reached from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and San Diego is served by San Diego International Airport (SAN).
Transportation
Taxis are available at the airport and major tourist spots. Shared ride apps such as Uber are also available. Car rentals are usually preferred.
DISCOVER UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN CALIFORNIA
BEST SCUBA DIVING IN CALIFORNIA
Monterey Bay
Monterey Bay is renowned for its breathtaking kelp forests and diverse marine life. Divers can explore the protected waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, home to sea otters, harbor seals, and an array of colorful fish. Popular dive spots like the Breakwater and Point Lobos offer stunning underwater topography, including rocky reefs and pinnacles.
Channel Islands
The Channel Islands, often referred to as the "Galapagos of North America," offer some of the best diving in the state. Comprised of eight islands, notable sites include Anacapa, Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara Islands. Divers can encounter sea lions, giant sea bass, and vibrant kelp forests, along with unique underwater arches and caves.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island, located off the coast of Southern California, is famous for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The Casino Point Dive Park is a popular shore diving location, featuring easy access and diverse ecosystems. Divers can see garibaldi, spiny lobsters, and even occasional bat rays. The island also offers various boat dive sites with fascinating underwater landscapes.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove, situated in San Diego, is a prime spot for divers looking to explore rocky reefs and underwater canyons. The protected marine reserve is home to an array of sea life, including leopard sharks, seals, and numerous fish species. The nearby La Jolla Underwater Park offers additional dive sites like the La Jolla Caves, known for their striking underwater caverns.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, near Carmel-by-the-Sea, is considered one of the most scenic dive locations in California. The underwater terrain features dramatic rock formations, kelp forests, and a variety of marine creatures such as harbor seals, sea otters, and nudibranchs. Whalers Cove and Bluefish Cove are two of the most popular dive sites within the reserve.
San Clemente Island
San Clemente Island, the southernmost of the Channel Islands, offers pristine diving conditions and diverse marine habitats. Known for its excellent visibility and vibrant ecosystems, divers can explore kelp forests, rocky reefs, and coral gardens. Marine life includes schools of fish, rays, and occasional sightings of pelagic species like sharks and tuna.
Dive Conditions
California's dive conditions vary by location but generally feature cool water temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F, with visibility often ranging from 15 to 30 feet, though it can exceed 50 feet on a good day. Divers should be prepared for temperate waters and occasional strong currents, making a thick wetsuit or drysuit essential for comfort and safety.
WHEN TO GO
The best time to go scuba diving in California is during the late summer and early fall, when water temperatures are warmer and visibility is at its peak. These months typically offer calmer seas and more favorable weather conditions, providing an optimal diving experience.
WHAT YOU’LL SEE
When scuba diving in California, you'll encounter vibrant kelp forests teeming with marine life, including sea otters, harbor seals, and colorful fish. Dive sites also feature dramatic underwater landscapes with rocky reefs, pinnacles, and fascinating shipwrecks.