Diving in Southern California Bight
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Southern California Bight's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Southern California Bight, ecoregion. This region features 42 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Southern California Bight has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Southern California Bight (2)
Popular Spots in Southern California Bight (42)
Anacapa Island
Anacapa Island is characterized by its diverse marine environment, featuring steep walls and significant drop-offs. The site is known for its population of inquisitive sea lions, which can often be seen interacting with divers. The underwater landscape includes extensive kelp forests that host a variety of marine life, including numerous species of fish, seals, lobsters, crabs, and nudibranchs. Access to Anacapa Island is exclusively by boat, with multiple dive charters operating daily from the mainland, ensuring regular opportunities for divers to explore this unique ecosystem.
Beacons
Beacons is situated on the California coast in Encinitas, just a block west of the historic 101 coastal highway. Access to the site is via a parking lot located above, with a trail leading down to the beach. The trail is approximately a couple of hundred yards long and features several switchbacks. The dive site is characterized by a rocky bottom with numerous crevices, providing habitats for various marine life. Divers can expect to encounter species such as octopus, lobster, and garibaldi among the rocky formations.
Bird Rock - Catalina Island
Bird Rock, located on Catalina Island, offers a diverse underwater landscape that includes shallow rocky areas and steep drop-offs, as well as a notable arch. This site is suitable for divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The waters are typically clear and calm, with minimal current, making it an ideal spot for both diving and snorkeling. The reef is home to a variety of marine life, including numerous blue-banded gobies, the rare abalone, resident rockfish, painted greenlings, and moray eels.
Camp Emerald Bay
Camp Emerald Bay is located on Catalina Island and serves as a popular dive site with easy access from the beach. The dive features a gently sloping bottom and is characterized by extensive kelp forests that are home to a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to see kelpfish, opaleye, rockfish, urchins, wrasse, seabass, sheepshead, and garibaldi. Additionally, the area is frequented by batrays, electric rays, sea lions, and occasionally dolphins.
Casino Point, Avalon, Catalina Island
Casino Point is a popular shore dive site in Avalon, Catalina Island, with depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters (15 to 100 feet). Divers can explore boulders, rock walls, and small wrecks such as the Kist Met and Sue-Jac, with good visibility and calm water conditions.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a notable diving location in California, featuring over 70 designated dive sites. Divers can access the underwater environment from the shore, exploring diverse habitats including kelp forests. The area is rich in marine life, showcasing a variety of species such as nudibranchs, gobies, anemones, seals, sea lions, rays, otters, and sharks. The vibrant ecosystems support both macro and larger marine animals, making it a significant site for underwater exploration.
Channel Islands Break Wall
Channel Islands Break Wall is a shore-accessible dive site located at 34.157500, -119.232300. It is suitable for beginner divers due to the straightforward swim to the site. The area features a break wall with numerous marine creatures residing among the rocks. Divers can expect to see a variety of California kelp species, along with sea lions, horn sharks, rays, octopuses, and a diverse array of invertebrates such as urchins, sea stars, and nudibranchs.
Corona Del Mar State Beach
Corona del Mar State Beach is suitable for beginner divers, with entry and exit designated at lifeguard tower 5, as required by the City of Newport Beach. Divers should swim approximately 100 meters out to reach the first buoy located in front of the tower. Upon descending, divers can follow the reef towards the east. The marine life in this area includes Garibaldi, sea lions, octopus, halibut, and stingrays, which can often be seen in the shallower waters. Additionally, dolphins are known to interact with sea lions in the vicinity.
Corral Canyon State Beach
Corral Canyon State Beach features a kelp forest that is accessible from the shore, with the best entry point located at the northwest end of the beach. Divers should be mindful of surf and ocean conditions prior to diving. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including perch, opaleye, barred sand bass, lobsters, octopuses, Spanish shawl nudibranchs, sheep crabs, and gorgonian sea fans. Additionally, divers may encounter larger species such as sheepshead and garibaldi.
Crescent Bay
Crescent Bay is situated in Laguna Beach, Southern California, and is accessible from Circle Way via stairs or from Cliff Drive using a paved ramp. The stairway access is located between private residences, so divers should be considerate of the local community. The site is known for its diverse marine life, including large rays, sand dollars, lobsters, sheepshead, garibaldi, sand bass, and sculpin, providing a rich underwater experience.
Cress Street
Cress Street offers a shore entry dive in Laguna Beach, where divers must navigate carefully to enter and exit either north or south of the nearby houses to avoid shallow reefs. This site is located in a protected marine area, where the collection of shells or wildlife is prohibited. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including sea lions, lobsters, and numerous fish species.
Deer Creek
Deer Creek offers a straightforward beach entry for divers. Access is available by parking along Pacific Coast Highway at Deer Creek Road, followed by a descent down a set of stairs to the beach. The site features two distinct kelp forest and reef systems that divers can explore. Caution is advised after heavy storms, as the sand may be washed away, resulting in a rocky entry. The marine life commonly encountered includes rockfish, kelp bass, barred sand bass, and the occasional sheephead. Invertebrates such as lobsters and sheep crabs are also present in this area.
Divers Cove
Divers Cove is a shore dive accessible via stairs on the north side of the parking lot at Beverly & Myrtle Streets or a ramp on the south side. Caution is advised as the sand can make these entry points slippery. Approximately 30 yards from the shore, divers can explore numerous mini reefs that provide opportunities to observe a variety of marine life, including lobsters, eels, rays, octopus, garibaldi, calico bass, and Kellet's welks.
Doctors Cove
Doctors Cove is located on the mainland side of Catalina Island, just northwest of Emerald Bay. Access is primarily by boat, but divers with permission can enter from the shore at Boy Scout Camp or via kayak. The dive site features depths ranging from 20 to 55 feet, with visibility typically between 30 and 50 feet. Divers can explore a wreck and a variety of kelp, including elk kelp. The marine life here includes typical Catalina fish, as well as larger species such as bat rays and leopard sharks, particularly during the summer months.
Eagle Reef
Eagle Reef is a substantial rocky formation rich in marine biodiversity, located off Catalina Island. This dive site is accessible exclusively by boat, either through private vessels or dive charters. It is advisable to dive in the morning to avoid increased wind conditions and to be aware of potential strong currents. The underwater environment features rocky crevices and extensive kelp forests, where divers can observe a variety of marine life including colorful limpets, abalone, sea urchins, yellowtail, seabass, lobsters, garibaldi, and sheepshead.
Goleta Beach Park
Goleta Beach Park offers a shore entry with easy access to the water. The visibility typically ranges from 15 to 20 feet, allowing divers to observe a variety of marine life. The area is known for its dense populations of octopus, giant keyhole limpets, large pisaster stars, nudibranchs, and sheep crabs. This site is suitable for beginners due to its straightforward navigation and the presence of beachside facilities.
Hen Rock
Hen Rock is a dive site that can be accessed by boat, suitable for divers of all experience levels. The underwater landscape features a mix of reef and sandy bottom, with depths ranging from 15 to 85 feet, particularly on the outer pinnacles. Divers can explore swim-throughs, encounter schools of fish, and observe mini-walls and overhangs. Marine life includes large calico bass, numerous kelpfish, lobsters, rockfish, and vibrant Spanish shawl nudibranchs, along with colorful gorgonians.
Hmcs Yukon
The HMCS Yukon is a 111-meter (366 feet) wreck located off Mission Bay at a depth of approximately 30 meters (100 feet). Divers can penetrate the wreck through large cutouts into areas like the captain's cabin and engine room. Only certified wreck divers are allowed for interior exploration.
HMCS Yukon (Wreck)
The HMCS Yukon is located in 'Wreck Alley' off the coast of Mission Bay, making it a notable wreck dive in San Diego. This site features a substantial wreck measuring 366 feet in length, resting at depths exceeding 100 feet, which classifies it as an advanced dive. The wreck is adorned with large white Metridiums, vibrant strawberry anemones, and various gorgonians. Marine life commonly observed here includes seabass, perch, lingcod, and crabs, with occasional sightings of seals and sea lions. Divers should be prepared for the conditions associated with deep dives.
Indian Rock
Indian Rock, located in the heart of Catalina Island, features rocky outcroppings and extensive kelp beds. This site is a favored mooring area for recreational boats, so divers should remain cautious of boat traffic. Access to Indian Rock is best achieved via boat charter, as it is too distant for a swim from the shore. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of mackerel, Garibaldi, and various invertebrates such as gorgonians and sea fans. Additionally, sightings of octopus, small lobsters, moray eels with their cleaner shrimp, and blue-banded gobies are common in this vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Isla de Guadalupe
Isla de Guadalupe is a volcanic island located off the western coast of Baja California, Mexico. It is recognized as one of the few locations globally where cage diving with Great White Sharks is possible. The primary draw for divers is the opportunity to observe these sharks, particularly abundant during the early fall months. The site is accessed by boat, providing a direct route to the diving areas where these marine predators can be encountered.
Isthmus Reef
Isthmus Reef is located off the coast of Catalina Island and is accessible exclusively by boat. This dive site is characterized by its shallow depths, making it suitable for open water students and novice divers. The underwater environment is rich with various kelp fish species, including garibaldi, sheepshead, senorita wrasse, and kelpfish. Divers can also observe a variety of marine life such as sea urchins, sea stars, and gobies in the area.
La Jolla Canyon
La Jolla Canyon features kelp beds along the outer edges of the slope, providing habitat for various marine life including seals, dolphins, and numerous fish species. The canyon itself descends sharply, reaching depths of 600 feet (180 m) within the park. Divers may encounter rockfish, bat rays, and large schools of market squid, along with swarms of jellyfish and salp chains. The site is accessible from the shore.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is located near La Jolla Shores and is characterized by its rocky terrain and kelp forests. This site is known for its resident sea lions, which are frequently observed during dives. Divers can also expect to see various marine life, including garibaldi, stingrays, horn sharks, leopard sharks, and kelp fish. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore this unique underwater environment.
La Jolla Shores
La Jolla Shores is a well-known dive site located in San Diego County, accessible from Kellogg Park. The entry is typically a beach entry, although divers should be cautious of high surf conditions, which may require experience in handling such entries. The site offers diverse wildlife encounters that vary with the seasons, including common stingrays, octopuses, squids, horn sharks, leopard sharks, gobies, and sea lions.
Ledbetter Beach
Ledbetter Beach is a shore dive site located at coordinates 34.400800, -119.698900. The site features a gently sloping bottom with shallow depths, making it accessible for divers of all levels. Conditions typically include low surf and minimal current, which contribute to its popularity. Marine life commonly observed here includes opaleye, wrasses, sheepshead, garibaldi, stingrays, and lobsters. Divers may also spot seals and sea lions on occasion. The area offers picnic facilities, including barbeques, enhancing the overall experience.
Leo Carrillo State Beach
Leo Carrillo State Beach features a diverse underwater environment with a large kelp forest easily accessible from the shore. The site is suitable for both diving and snorkeling due to its shallow depths. Marine life includes colorful nudibranchs, golden gorgonian coral, and various fish species such as sheephead, bright orange garibaldi, black perch, painted greenlings, as well as octopus and crabs.
Lulu Reef
Lulu Reef consists of three rock pinnacles located within Eagle Reef, situated off the mainland of Catalina Island's west end. Access to this dive site is primarily by boat due to its offshore location. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life including lobster, moray eels, sheepshead, garibaldi, crabs, calico bass, and bat rays. There are occasional sightings of sea lions, seals, and the rare Mola mola.
Mission Bay
Mission Bay serves as a backup dive location, particularly useful for open water training when ocean conditions are unfavorable. The bay is sheltered, resulting in calm waters, although visibility tends to be limited. Divers can expect to encounter marine life such as sea bass, sculpin, and stingrays. Additionally, the rocky areas near the jetties may reveal octopuses, lobsters, crabs, sea hares, smaller fish, and whelks.
Parson’s Landing
Parson’s Landing is a secluded cove located on Catalina Island, offering diving and snorkeling opportunities directly from the shore. The area is generally calm due to its protection from adverse weather conditions. Underwater, divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including garibaldi, opaleye, calico bass, halfmoons, green abalone, leopard sharks, bat rays, and halibut. The site is suitable for both novice and experienced divers, providing a scenic underwater experience.
Pirates Cove
Pirates Cove features a steep, rocky beach with stairs leading down to the water. The rocky surface can be slippery due to moss growth. Divers should exercise caution while navigating the thick kelp forest, which is a notable characteristic of the site. The water temperature tends to be cold, and visibility can be poor. Marine life commonly observed includes Pacific coast species such as sheepshead, sea urchins, bass, fingerlings, and kelp fish.
Refugio State Beach
Refugio State Beach offers a shore entry into protected waters, ideal for divers seeking to explore the underwater environment. The site features expansive kelp forests located just offshore, providing a habitat for a variety of marine life. Common species include purple sea urchins, crabs, rays, kelpfish, rockfish, sheepshead, and wrasses. Divers may also encounter dolphins, seals, and sea lions during their dives. While the beach can be crowded due to its popularity and the presence of 100 campgrounds, the underwater experience is typically serene.
Rock Quarry
Rock Quarry is located at an old quarry site where materials were extracted for the construction of Long Beach Harbor. This dive site is accessible only by boat and features both shallow and deeper water areas. Divers can encounter strong currents, making it essential for divers to be aware of their surroundings. The marine life here includes various kelp fish such as Garibaldi, Sheepshead, and Senorita Wrasse, along with sea urchins, sea stars, and a range of micro and macro life forms.
Ruby E (Wreck)
The Ruby E wreck is located in San Diego's Wreck Alley, situated offshore from Mission Bay. This dive site is accessible exclusively by boat and is recommended for advanced divers due to its deeper water conditions. Marine life commonly observed here includes vibrant strawberry anemones, various invertebrates such as nudibranchs and crabs, as well as fish species like cabezon, scorpionfish, halibut, and gobies.
San Clemente Island
San Clemente Island offers divers the opportunity to explore a diverse marine ecosystem characterized by kelp forests. The site is known for frequent encounters with sea lions and a variety of fish species including garibaldi, opaleye, sheepshead, Cabazon, rockfish, and gobies. This location is accessible via shore entry, making it a convenient option for divers looking for a less crowded alternative to more popular sites in Southern California.
Santa Cruz Island
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.
Shaws Cove
Shaws Cove is a well-known shore diving location situated in Orange County, California. Access to the site is convenient from Fairview Street and Cliff Drive, with the stairway from Cliff Drive being the most straightforward route to the beach. Caution is advised as the stairs can be slippery due to sand accumulation. The underwater environment is rich with marine life, including sea urchins, lobsters, eels, rays, octopus, garibaldi, calico bass, Kellet’s welks, tree fish, small sheepshead, and bat stars. Occasionally, dolphins may be observed in the area.
Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf is located in Santa Barbara and features a gentle beach entry leading to a shallow, sloping sandy bottom. This site is suitable for beginner divers. While marine life is limited, divers may encounter creatures such as stingrays, sand dollars, and small fish, including schools of anchovies.
Sunset Point
Sunset Point offers divers an opportunity to explore a rocky reef structure with depths ranging from 10 to 30 feet. Expect to see a variety of fish species, along with marine invertebrates and occasional visitations from larger pelagics.
Sutil Island
Sutil Island is situated approximately 700 yards from Santa Barbara Island and is characterized more as a rock formation than a traditional island, with its height reaching 300 feet above sea level. The structure features numerous caves both above and below the waterline. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including anemones, nudibranchs, scallops, kelpfish, and bass. Additionally, brittle stars and sea stars are commonly found throughout the area.
The Marine Room
The Marine Room offers a shore entry located next to The Marine Room Restaurant. Divers should exercise caution during high tide as water can wash over the steps. The sandy bottom remains at a depth of 3 to 5 meters for approximately 100 meters from the shore. Marine life includes small creatures such as sand dabs, blue crabs, and nudibranchs. At the canyon wall, divers may encounter sea hares, sculpins, and red octopuses.
WaterWorld Universal Studios
WaterWorld at Universal Studios Hollywood features the deepest dive tank within the park. This site is accessible for SSI Dive Leaders affiliated with Universal Technical Services or Scuba Schools of America & Swim, who can arrange dives here. The tank is devoid of marine life, but divers should remain vigilant for piping and floating bullet heads. It is essential to adhere to lockout/tagout procedures while diving.