Kelp forests, giant black sea bass, and island time just offshore from Los Angeles
Updated Nov 21, 2025 • 10 sources
Top species linked to approved dive spots in Catalina Island.
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Catalina's flagship shore dive park with kelp, walls, and easy stairs.
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Last updated: November 21, 2025 • 10 sources
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Overview
Catalina Island delivers cold-to-cool water diving with classic giant kelp forests, friendly garibaldi, and seasonal giant black sea bass within a short ferry ride of Southern California. Casino Point Dive Park in Avalon is one of North America’s most famous shore dives, protected as a State Marine Conservation Area with easy stairs, clear water, and small wrecks in a compact footprint. Inland, 100+ kilometers of trails cross Conservancy lands, including the 42 mile Trans Catalina Trail. Non divers get laid back beach clubs, glass bottom boat rides, and mellow coves at Two Harbors, all under a mild Mediterranean style climate.
Casino Point shore dives and short boats from Avalon or Two Harbors hit kelp, sea lions, bat rays, and seasonal giant black sea bass.
Lovers Cove, Casino Point, and other SMCAs limit take so fish and kelp stay bold.
Eighty-eight percent is Conservancy land with permits, shuttles, and the Trans Catalina Trail to ridges, canyons, and remote coves.
Avalon and Two Harbors are walkable; golf carts, water taxis, and shuttles keep docks minutes from beds.
8 linked spots
Best time to go
July - October
Warmest sea temperatures around 19°C to 21°C, stable kelp canopies, long daylight, and typically the best visibility of the year.
Main caution: Cooler air and water, more Pacific storms, and shorter days. Great deals are possible, but ferry cancellations and rough seas are more likely.
