Santa Cruz Island

Warm Temperate Northeast PacificSouthern California Bight
Type:
Scuba Diving
Entry:Boat Entry
Tags:
Great ScubaKelp ForestWall
About This Dive Spot

Santa Cruz Island is the largest of the Channel Islands, featuring diverse topography that includes both east and west sections. The eastern part is managed by the National Park Service, while the western section is under the Nature Conservancy. Access to both areas is exclusively by boat. The waters surrounding the island are home to a variety of marine life, including 28 documented species of whales and dolphins found in the Santa Barbara Channel and Southern California Bight. This site offers opportunities for divers to explore its unique underwater environments.

Where is this?
Map location of Santa Cruz Island
This spotNearby spots
Community sourced coordinates.
Dive Statistics
Average conditions based on logged dives
Activity
Total Logs
0
Unique Divers
0
Dive with These Shops
Local dive shops offering trips to this spot
Recent Logged VisitsRecent Dive Logs
No dive logs yet for Santa Cruz Island

No Dive Logs Yet

Be the first to log a dive at this spot and share your experience!

Quick Facts

  • Best season: Check recent logs for current conditions
  • Typical visibility: Variable
  • Entry types: boat
  • Highlights: scuba diving

Spots Near Santa Cruz Island

Ledbetter Beach dive spot
📍 44.8 km

Ledbetter Beach

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba DivingSnorkelingHangout Sesh
Goleta Beach Park dive spot
📍 46.0 km

Goleta Beach Park

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba DivingSnorkelingHangout Sesh
Anacapa Island dive spot
📍 46.2 km

Anacapa Island

Entry:

Boat Entry

Type:

Scuba Diving
Stearns Wharf dive spot
📍 46.2 km

Stearns Wharf

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba DivingSnorkelingHangout Sesh
Refugio State Beach dive spot
📍 60.1 km

Refugio State Beach

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba DivingSnorkelingHangout Sesh
Channel Islands Break Wall dive spot
📍 62.9 km

Channel Islands Break Wall

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba Diving

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at Santa Cruz Island?
Entry at Santa Cruz Island is detailed in the spot description above. Look for specific landmarks, access paths, and any tide or condition requirements. Local divers often share updated entry tips in their dive logs.
What conditions are best for diving Santa Cruz Island?
Optimal conditions at Santa Cruz Island depend on several factors including tide, wind, and season. Check recent dive logs for current condition reports and patterns. Generally, calmer seas and high tide provide better visibility and easier entry.
What is the maximum depth and typical visibility at Santa Cruz Island?
Depth and visibility information for Santa Cruz Island can be found in the spot details and recent dive logs. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather, tide, and season. Always plan your dive according to current conditions and your certification level.
Are there any safety considerations or local etiquette at Santa Cruz Island?
When diving Santa Cruz Island, respect local regulations, marine life, and other water users. Be aware of any specific hazards like currents or boat traffic mentioned in the spot description. Follow Leave No Trace principles and local diving etiquette.