Diving in Warm Temperate Northeast Pacific
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Warm Temperate Northeast Pacific's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Warm Temperate Northeast Pacific, province. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Warm Temperate Northeast Pacific 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 Warm Temperate Northeast Pacific (2)
Sub-regions in Warm Temperate Northeast Pacific (4)
Popular Spots in Warm Temperate Northeast Pacific (100+ spots)
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.
Aquarium - Loreto
Aquarium in Loreto is recognized for its rich marine biodiversity, often referred to as the 'aquarium of the world' by Jacques Cousteau. The site offers encounters with a variety of marine species, including octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions. There is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater life.
Aquarium - Loreto
Aquarium in Loreto is recognized for its rich marine biodiversity, often referred to as the 'aquarium of the world' by Jacques Cousteau. The site offers encounters with a variety of marine species, including octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions. There is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater life.
ARM Santos Wreck
The ARM Santos Wreck is an Auk Class Minesweeper with a history linked to World War II in the Pacific. After decommissioning post-war, it was briefly recommissioned for the Korean War and sold to the Mexican Navy in 1973. The vessel was intentionally sunk as an artificial reef in March 2022. It measures 220 feet in length and is positioned partially upright at a depth of 55 feet, with its highest point reaching 20 feet below the surface. Since its sinking, the wreck has become a habitat for various marine life, including octopuses on the stern and numerous nudibranchs during winter months. Schools of snappers and barracudas are also frequently observed around the site.
ARM Santos Wreck
The ARM Santos Wreck is an Auk Class Minesweeper with a history linked to World War II in the Pacific. After decommissioning post-war, it was briefly recommissioned for the Korean War and sold to the Mexican Navy in 1973. The vessel was intentionally sunk as an artificial reef in March 2022. It measures 220 feet in length and is positioned partially upright at a depth of 55 feet, with its highest point reaching 20 feet below the surface. Since its sinking, the wreck has become a habitat for various marine life, including octopuses on the stern and numerous nudibranchs during winter months. Schools of snappers and barracudas are also frequently observed around the site.
Arroyo - San Pedro
Arroyo - San Pedro offers divers the opportunity to encounter playful sea lions, particularly females, along with schools of groupers and the occasional turtle. The dive site features black coral forests and reaches a maximum depth of 90 feet. Water temperatures typically range from the low to mid 80s. While the female sea lions are known for their playful behavior, the male bulls tend to observe from a distance.
Arroyo - San Pedro
Arroyo - San Pedro offers divers the opportunity to encounter playful sea lions, particularly females, along with schools of groupers and the occasional turtle. The dive site features black coral forests and reaches a maximum depth of 90 feet. Water temperatures typically range from the low to mid 80s. While the female sea lions are known for their playful behavior, the male bulls tend to observe from a distance.
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.
Bob’s Cave
Bob's Cave is a dive site characterized by its sandy bottom and a maximum depth of 90 feet. The water temperature typically remains in the low 80s, providing comfortable conditions for divers. The site is notable for its populations of sea lions, which are often observed playing and interacting, making them a central attraction during dives. Additionally, divers can encounter black coral forests and schools of fish, enhancing the underwater experience. The site generally experiences little to no current, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
Bob’s Cave
Bob's Cave is a dive site characterized by its sandy bottom and a maximum depth of 90 feet. The water temperature typically remains in the low 80s, providing comfortable conditions for divers. The site is notable for its populations of sea lions, which are often observed playing and interacting, making them a central attraction during dives. Additionally, divers can encounter black coral forests and schools of fish, enhancing the underwater experience. The site generally experiences little to no current, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
Bob’s Mistake
Bob's Mistake is a suitable dive site for night diving, particularly for novice divers. The maximum depth reaches 45 feet, and the site typically experiences minimal current. The sandy bottom is home to a variety of marine life, which is characteristic of night dives. Divers can expect to encounter species such as octopuses, eels, electric stingrays, green turtles, starfish, scorpionfish, lobsters, and crabs.
Bob’s Mistake
Bob's Mistake is a suitable dive site for night diving, particularly for novice divers. The maximum depth reaches 45 feet, and the site typically experiences minimal current. The sandy bottom is home to a variety of marine life, which is characteristic of night dives. Divers can expect to encounter species such as octopuses, eels, electric stingrays, green turtles, starfish, scorpionfish, lobsters, and crabs.
Butt Hole
Butt Hole is located in Lake Havasu and is known for its significant depth, reaching approximately 80 feet. Divers can enter the site from the shore and follow a morning line that leads to several submerged boats. The area is relatively sparse in marine life, with occasional sightings of catfish, but overall, there is limited biodiversity to observe.
Butt Hole
Butt Hole is located in Lake Havasu and is known for its significant depth, reaching approximately 80 feet. Divers can enter the site from the shore and follow a morning line that leads to several submerged boats. The area is relatively sparse in marine life, with occasional sightings of catfish, but overall, there is limited biodiversity to observe.
C-59 Wreck
The C-59 wreck is located at a depth of 70 feet (18 meters) and is accessible from the shore. Originally an American military vessel, it was transferred to the Mexican government to serve as an artificial reef. This site is suitable for both Open Water and Advanced Open Water divers. Marine life commonly observed here includes eels, Cortez angelfish, various species of surgeonfish, schools of sardines, grunts, and snapper.
C-59 Wreck
The C-59 wreck is located at a depth of 70 feet (18 meters) and is accessible from the shore. Originally an American military vessel, it was transferred to the Mexican government to serve as an artificial reef. This site is suitable for both Open Water and Advanced Open Water divers. Marine life commonly observed here includes eels, Cortez angelfish, various species of surgeonfish, schools of sardines, grunts, and snapper.
Cabo Pulmo
Cabo Pulmo National Park is known for its diverse marine ecosystem, hosting over 6,000 species of marine life. The site offers a range of diving experiences, from shallow reef dives to deeper drift dives. Divers can encounter a variety of marine fish and mammals, including migrating humpback whales, sperm whales, and whale sharks. Sea lions are also frequently observed in the area. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
Cabo Pulmo
Cabo Pulmo National Park is known for its diverse marine ecosystem, hosting over 6,000 species of marine life. The site offers a range of diving experiences, from shallow reef dives to deeper drift dives. Divers can encounter a variety of marine fish and mammals, including migrating humpback whales, sperm whales, and whale sharks. Sea lions are also frequently observed in the area. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas provides diverse diving opportunities suitable for all experience levels. Shore diving offers calm conditions with an aquarium-like environment, while deeper dives at locations such as Gordo Banks present chances to encounter large pelagic species including orcas, humpback whales, hammerhead sharks, and tuna. The marine life in the area includes semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, and sea lions, with the possibility of spotting hammerheads during dives.
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas provides diverse diving opportunities suitable for all experience levels. Shore diving offers calm conditions with an aquarium-like environment, while deeper dives at locations such as Gordo Banks present chances to encounter large pelagic species including orcas, humpback whales, hammerhead sharks, and tuna. The marine life in the area includes semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, and sea lions, with the possibility of spotting hammerheads during dives.
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.
Casa Del Árabe
Casa Del Árabe is located just outside of Acapulco Bay and offers divers the opportunity to explore various rock formations and some coral structures. The site is home to a variety of semi-tropical Pacific marine life, including octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, and several species of fish such as butterflyfish, angelfish, and damselfish. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience the local underwater ecosystem.
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.
Chaparral Aquatics Center
Chaparral Aquatics Center is a 13-foot deep swimming pool located in Scottsdale, AZ, designed for open water training and other confined water training activities. The facility includes a large shaded area for divers to rest and avoid sun exposure when not in the water. As an artificial environment, the pool does not support any natural flora or fauna and is maintained with chlorinated water.
Chaparral Aquatics Center
Chaparral Aquatics Center is a 13-foot deep swimming pool located in Scottsdale, AZ, designed for open water training and other confined water training activities. The facility includes a large shaded area for divers to rest and avoid sun exposure when not in the water. As an artificial environment, the pool does not support any natural flora or fauna and is maintained with chlorinated water.
Chayo’s Cave
Chayo’s Cave features a short horseshoe swim-through, making it an ideal location for novice divers exploring an overhead environment for the first time. The maximum depth at this site reaches 55 feet, with water temperatures typically ranging from the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Divers can often encounter a playful family of sea lions near both the entrance and exit of the cave, enhancing the experience for those new to diving.
Chayo’s Cave
Chayo’s Cave features a short horseshoe swim-through, making it an ideal location for novice divers exploring an overhead environment for the first time. The maximum depth at this site reaches 55 feet, with water temperatures typically ranging from the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Divers can often encounter a playful family of sea lions near both the entrance and exit of the cave, enhancing the experience for those new to diving.
Christmas Tree Reef
Christmas Tree Reef is a freshwater dive site located in Lake Pleasant, ideal for novice divers and training sessions. The site is known for its calm waters, making it suitable for both diving and snorkeling. Divers can expect to encounter various species of fish, including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Walleye, Catfish, Spotted Bass, White Bass, and Striped Bass, as well as crayfish. The site is popular among divers due to its accessibility from the shore.
Christmas Tree Reef
Christmas Tree Reef is a freshwater dive site located in Lake Pleasant, ideal for novice divers and training sessions. The site is known for its calm waters, making it suitable for both diving and snorkeling. Divers can expect to encounter various species of fish, including Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Walleye, Catfish, Spotted Bass, White Bass, and Striped Bass, as well as crayfish. The site is popular among divers due to its accessibility from the shore.
Copper Canyon
Copper Canyon is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 34.426000, -114.307700. The area is characterized by underwater trees and various submerged objects, including anchors. Divers can encounter a variety of freshwater fish species such as catfish, bass, crappie, carp, and strippers. The site is also known for its cliff jump, which attracts divers looking for treasure hunting opportunities. Items such as iPhones, watches, sunglasses, and box anchors have been recovered from the area.
Copper Canyon
Copper Canyon is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 34.426000, -114.307700. The area is characterized by underwater trees and various submerged objects, including anchors. Divers can encounter a variety of freshwater fish species such as catfish, bass, crappie, carp, and strippers. The site is also known for its cliff jump, which attracts divers looking for treasure hunting opportunities. Items such as iPhones, watches, sunglasses, and box anchors have been recovered from the area.
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.
Corralito
Corralito is a dive site known for its diverse marine life, including turtles, scorpion fish, sea cucumbers, octopus, nudibranchs, electric rays, sea lions, starfish, and anemones. The site features a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) and experiences light to moderate currents. Water temperatures typically range from the high 21°C to 26°C (70s to low 80s °F). This location is also suitable for night dives, providing opportunities to observe nocturnal marine species.
Corralito
Corralito is a dive site known for its diverse marine life, including turtles, scorpion fish, sea cucumbers, octopus, nudibranchs, electric rays, sea lions, starfish, and anemones. The site features a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) and experiences light to moderate currents. Water temperatures typically range from the high 21°C to 26°C (70s to low 80s °F). This location is also suitable for night dives, providing opportunities to observe nocturnal marine species.
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.
Desert Tortoise
Desert Tortoise is a dive site that is well-suited for beginner open water divers and training classes. The underwater terrain features gentle slopes, allowing for a gradual increase in depth. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of freshwater fish species, including catfish, perch, bass, carp, and crayfish, which are commonly found in the area throughout most of the year.
Desert Tortoise
Desert Tortoise is a dive site that is well-suited for beginner open water divers and training classes. The underwater terrain features gentle slopes, allowing for a gradual increase in depth. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of freshwater fish species, including catfish, perch, bass, carp, and crayfish, which are commonly found in the area throughout most of the year.
Diamond Dive Site
Diamond Dive Site is situated at the entrance of Steambpat Cove, characterized by underwater cliffs that feature overhangs. The average depth ranges from 15 to 30 feet, providing decent visibility for divers. Marine life commonly observed includes large catfish residing beneath the cliff overhangs, along with bass and carp swimming in the area.
Diamond Dive Site
Diamond Dive Site is situated at the entrance of Steambpat Cove, characterized by underwater cliffs that feature overhangs. The average depth ranges from 15 to 30 feet, providing decent visibility for divers. Marine life commonly observed includes large catfish residing beneath the cliff overhangs, along with bass and carp swimming in the area.
Dive Site 5
Dive Site 5 features a platform that provides straightforward access from the shore. The site has a maximum depth of approximately 25 feet, where divers can observe three boats. The water visibility at this location is around 5 feet, which may affect the overall diving experience.
Dive Site 5
Dive Site 5 features a platform that provides straightforward access from the shore. The site has a maximum depth of approximately 25 feet, where divers can observe three boats. The water visibility at this location is around 5 feet, which may affect the overall diving experience.
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.
Eagle Rock
Eagle Rock is accessible from the shore and is suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site features a rocky reef that gently slopes down to a sandy bottom at a depth of 60 feet. In the shallower areas near the wall, there is a canyon that opens to the south, reaching depths of approximately 20 feet. To the north, the reef transitions into a boulder field. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Cortez and King Angelfish, as well as moray eels, lobsters, and Giant Hawkfish.
Eagle Rock
Eagle Rock is accessible from the shore and is suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site features a rocky reef that gently slopes down to a sandy bottom at a depth of 60 feet. In the shallower areas near the wall, there is a canyon that opens to the south, reaching depths of approximately 20 feet. To the north, the reef transitions into a boulder field. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Cortez and King Angelfish, as well as moray eels, lobsters, and Giant Hawkfish.
El Bajo - Cabo Pulmo
El Bajo, located in Cabo Pulmo, features underwater topography that reflects the cliffs above, providing a striking environment for divers. The site is known for potential encounters with large marine species such as manta rays, eagle rays, sea lions, and whale sharks, alongside a variety of sub-tropical reef fish. The entry to this dive site is by boat, allowing access to its unique underwater landscape.
El Bajo - Cabo Pulmo
El Bajo, located in Cabo Pulmo, features underwater topography that reflects the cliffs above, providing a striking environment for divers. The site is known for potential encounters with large marine species such as manta rays, eagle rays, sea lions, and whale sharks, alongside a variety of sub-tropical reef fish. The entry to this dive site is by boat, allowing access to its unique underwater landscape.
El Bajo Sea Mounts
El Bajo Sea Mounts consists of a series of underwater mountains located in the Sea of Cortez, near La Paz, Mexico. This dive site is characterized by strong currents, making it suitable for advanced to expert divers only. Access is exclusively by boat. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including giant manta rays (mobulas), turtles, hammerhead sharks, and occasionally humpback and sperm whales.
El Bajo Sea Mounts
El Bajo Sea Mounts consists of a series of underwater mountains located in the Sea of Cortez, near La Paz, Mexico. This dive site is characterized by strong currents, making it suitable for advanced to expert divers only. Access is exclusively by boat. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including giant manta rays (mobulas), turtles, hammerhead sharks, and occasionally humpback and sperm whales.
El Canal - Acapulco
El Canal in Acapulco is characterized by its small canyons, large boulders, and sandy substrates. The site offers varying depths suitable for both snorkeling and deeper diving. Marine life commonly observed includes nudibranchs, turtles, seahorses, eagle rays, and various fish species such as doctor fish, puffer fish, and trumpet fish.
El Cantil
El Cantil is a shallow dive site with depths ranging from 20 to 50 feet. The area is characterized by a reef structure that includes numerous cracks and caverns, providing habitats for various marine species. Divers can encounter semi-tropical Pacific wildlife such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, and potentially manta rays. Other common sightings include eels, parrotfish, angelfish, jacks, grouper, and reef sharks. The site is accessible from the shore, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels.
El Cantil
El Cantil is a shallow dive site with depths ranging from 20 to 50 feet. The area is characterized by a reef structure that includes numerous cracks and caverns, providing habitats for various marine species. Divers can encounter semi-tropical Pacific wildlife such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, and potentially manta rays. Other common sightings include eels, parrotfish, angelfish, jacks, grouper, and reef sharks. The site is accessible from the shore, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels.
El Islote
El Islote is a prominent rock pinnacle located in Cabo Pulmo, Mexico. Divers typically navigate the site in a circular route around the pinnacle, which features wall diving and various rock outcroppings. The site is known for its large schools of fish, including a consistent presence of sardines at the surface. Additionally, divers can observe numerous leopard grouper and may encounter bull sharks. The area is adorned with purple sea fans, enhancing the underwater landscape.
El Islote
El Islote is a prominent rock pinnacle located in Cabo Pulmo, Mexico. Divers typically navigate the site in a circular route around the pinnacle, which features wall diving and various rock outcroppings. The site is known for its large schools of fish, including a consistent presence of sardines at the surface. Additionally, divers can observe numerous leopard grouper and may encounter bull sharks. The area is adorned with purple sea fans, enhancing the underwater landscape.
El Jardin
El Jardin is a dive site located off the coast of Acapulco, characterized by a diverse array of hard and soft corals. This site offers a shallow diving experience, making it accessible for divers of various skill levels. Marine life commonly observed here includes Balloonfish, Scorpionfish, Stingrays, Boxfish, Moray Eels, Starfish, Turtles, Barberfish, Sergeant Major fish, Blennies, Surgeonfish, and Eagle Rays. The site is known for its vibrant underwater ecosystem and is ideal for those looking to explore a rich marine environment.
El Mar Diving Center Pool
El Mar Diving Center Pool is a saltwater training facility measuring 40 feet in length and 20 feet in width. The pool has a depth that varies from 5 feet in the shallow section, which includes a bench and stairs for easy access, to 12.5 feet in the deeper area. This site accommodates various diving activities, including SCUBA diving, freediving, and technical diving throughout the year.
El Mar Diving Center Pool
El Mar Diving Center Pool is a saltwater training facility measuring 40 feet in length and 20 feet in width. The pool has a depth that varies from 5 feet in the shallow section, which includes a bench and stairs for easy access, to 12.5 feet in the deeper area. This site accommodates various diving activities, including SCUBA diving, freediving, and technical diving throughout the year.
El Rincon - Acapulco
El Rincon, located in Acapulco, offers a sheltered environment suitable for snorkeling and shallow diving, particularly for beginners and those pursuing various diving specialty courses. The dive site reaches depths of up to 12 meters, providing ample opportunity to explore a diverse range of marine life. Notable attractions include artificial reefs that support a variety of species. Divers can expect to encounter butterflies, angelfish, trumpetfish, surgeonfish, seahorses, nudibranchs, moray eels, and rays. The flora includes various sponges and corals, contributing to the site's ecological richness.
El Vencedor (Wreck)
El Vencedor is a wreck dive located in Cabo Pulmo, where a tuna trawler sank in the early 1980s after colliding with the reef. The wreck now serves as an artificial reef, surrounded by sandy areas and attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to see large schools of snapper and grunts, along with sizable grouper, numerous pufferfish, and both moray and garden eels. Bull sharks are also commonly observed in the vicinity. The site is accessible from the shore.
El Vencedor (Wreck)
El Vencedor is a wreck dive located in Cabo Pulmo, where a tuna trawler sank in the early 1980s after colliding with the reef. The wreck now serves as an artificial reef, surrounded by sandy areas and attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to see large schools of snapper and grunts, along with sizable grouper, numerous pufferfish, and both moray and garden eels. Bull sharks are also commonly observed in the vicinity. The site is accessible from the shore.
Eldorado Aquatic & Fitness Center
Eldorado Aquatic & Fitness Center features a heated pool with a depth of 13.5 feet, located in South Scottsdale. This chlorinated facility is primarily utilized for training purposes, including Open Water training, Full Face Mask, Perfect Buoyancy, and Photo/Video courses. The pool environment is devoid of marine life, with only divers present, and minimal algae growth can occur during the summer months.
Eldorado Aquatic & Fitness Center
Eldorado Aquatic & Fitness Center features a heated pool with a depth of 13.5 feet, located in South Scottsdale. This chlorinated facility is primarily utilized for training purposes, including Open Water training, Full Face Mask, Perfect Buoyancy, and Photo/Video courses. The pool environment is devoid of marine life, with only divers present, and minimal algae growth can occur during the summer months.
Fang Ming (Wreck)
The Fang Ming, referred to as the 'Chinese Wreck,' is a sunken cargo vessel located at coordinates 24.430300, -110.374400. This wreck was seized by the Mexican navy in 1995 while attempting to transport 88 undocumented Chinese immigrants to California. Divers can access the site from the shore. Marine life in the area includes semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions, with the possibility of encountering hammerhead sharks.
Fang Ming (Wreck)
The Fang Ming, referred to as the 'Chinese Wreck,' is a sunken cargo vessel located at coordinates 24.430300, -110.374400. This wreck was seized by the Mexican navy in 1995 while attempting to transport 88 undocumented Chinese immigrants to California. Divers can access the site from the shore. Marine life in the area includes semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions, with the possibility of encountering hammerhead sharks.
Faro de Bucerias
Faro de Bucerias is located in a tranquil area known for its sub-tropical Pacific diving. The site features a sunken ship situated just offshore, which serves as the primary attraction for divers. The marine life here includes a variety of semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, and various fish like butterflyfish, angelfish, and damselfish. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater environment.
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.
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is situated on the California side, directly across from site 6. Divers can enter the water from the shore and descend along a mooring line to discover a sunken sailboat, which serves as a starting point for exploring various submerged vessels and fish habitats. This site connects to the Butt Hole dive site, recognized as the deepest area of the lake. The cove is home to a diverse array of fish species, including bass, crappie, carp, and catfish, making it an engaging location for underwater observation.
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is situated on the California side, directly across from site 6. Divers can enter the water from the shore and descend along a mooring line to discover a sunken sailboat, which serves as a starting point for exploring various submerged vessels and fish habitats. This site connects to the Butt Hole dive site, recognized as the deepest area of the lake. The cove is home to a diverse array of fish species, including bass, crappie, carp, and catfish, making it an engaging location for underwater observation.
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.
Islas Marietas
The Islas Marietas, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, are notable for their rich biodiversity and the variety of marine species present. Depending on the season, divers may encounter humpback whales, whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and large sea turtles. The site is accessible only by boat, allowing divers to explore its unique underwater ecosystems.
Islas Marietas
The Islas Marietas, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, are notable for their rich biodiversity and the variety of marine species present. Depending on the season, divers may encounter humpback whales, whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and large sea turtles. The site is accessible only by boat, allowing divers to explore its unique underwater ecosystems.
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.
La Lobera - Coronado Island
La Lobera is a notable wall dive located on the southern side of Coronado Island near Loreto, Mexico. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to its depth, reaching approximately 30 meters (100 feet). Divers can explore numerous caves and caverns adorned with black coral and sea fans. The area is home to a variety of marine life, including semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions, with the possibility of encountering hammerhead sharks.
La Lobera - Coronado Island
La Lobera is a notable wall dive located on the southern side of Coronado Island near Loreto, Mexico. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to its depth, reaching approximately 30 meters (100 feet). Divers can explore numerous caves and caverns adorned with black coral and sea fans. The area is home to a variety of marine life, including semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions, with the possibility of encountering hammerhead sharks.
La Marina - Acapulco
La Marina in Acapulco is suitable for snorkeling and divers with limited experience, while also offering sections that cater to advanced divers. The site features a depth range from 3 meters (10 feet) to 30 meters (100 feet). Marine life includes a large coral colony, surgeonfish, trumpetfish, sea urchins, starfish, crabs, lobsters, lemon fish, butterflyfish, various pufferfish and boxfish, as well as eagle rays and turtles.
La Muela
La Muela is located on the northern end of Angel de la Guarda, featuring a sandy bottom with a maximum depth of 70 feet. The water temperature typically ranges in the low 80s Fahrenheit. This site is particularly noted for its macro life, including jawfish, gobies, blennies, scorpionfish, hogfish, groupers, electric rays, moray eels, surgeonfish, and butterfly fish. It is suitable for divers interested in fish identification courses.
La Muela
La Muela is located on the northern end of Angel de la Guarda, featuring a sandy bottom with a maximum depth of 70 feet. The water temperature typically ranges in the low 80s Fahrenheit. This site is particularly noted for its macro life, including jawfish, gobies, blennies, scorpionfish, hogfish, groupers, electric rays, moray eels, surgeonfish, and butterfly fish. It is suitable for divers interested in fish identification courses.
La Paz
La Paz offers divers an opportunity to explore the diverse marine life of the Sea of Cortez. The site features various underwater landscapes, including swim-throughs, caves, and deep pinnacles, as well as colorful shallow reefs. Marine encounters may include species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions, with the possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
La Paz
La Paz offers divers an opportunity to explore the diverse marine life of the Sea of Cortez. The site features various underwater landscapes, including swim-throughs, caves, and deep pinnacles, as well as colorful shallow reefs. Marine encounters may include species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, and sea lions, with the possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
La Roca Grande
La Roca Grande features rocky terrain transitioning into sandy areas, characteristic of many dive sites around San Pedro Nolasco Island. The site is located approximately one hour from the marina, with an average depth ranging from 50 to 60 feet, allowing for deeper exploration if desired. Divers can encounter sea lions along with a variety of fish species, including angelfish, damselfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, pufferfish, blennies, and guitarfish. Rays and numerous invertebrates are also abundant, contributing to the site's rich marine biodiversity.
La Roca Grande
La Roca Grande features rocky terrain transitioning into sandy areas, characteristic of many dive sites around San Pedro Nolasco Island. The site is located approximately one hour from the marina, with an average depth ranging from 50 to 60 feet, allowing for deeper exploration if desired. Divers can encounter sea lions along with a variety of fish species, including angelfish, damselfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, pufferfish, blennies, and guitarfish. Rays and numerous invertebrates are also abundant, contributing to the site's rich marine biodiversity.
La Vela
La Vela offers a shore entry dive characterized by minimal current, making it accessible for divers interested in macro photography as well as observing schools of fish at various developmental stages. The dive reaches a maximum depth of 65 feet, with water temperatures typically in the low 80s Fahrenheit. Marine life includes black coral, jawfish, electric rays, hogfish, pufferfish, chubs, blennies, gobies, scorpionfish, wrasse, parrotfish, grouper, and snapper.
La Vela
La Vela offers a shore entry dive characterized by minimal current, making it accessible for divers interested in macro photography as well as observing schools of fish at various developmental stages. The dive reaches a maximum depth of 65 feet, with water temperatures typically in the low 80s Fahrenheit. Marine life includes black coral, jawfish, electric rays, hogfish, pufferfish, chubs, blennies, gobies, scorpionfish, wrasse, parrotfish, grouper, and snapper.
Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant is a versatile dive site suitable for divers of all levels, from Open Water to Technical divers. The lake is home to various species of fish, including crayfish, catfish, bass, perch, and carp. Divers may also encounter some items that have been placed in the lake illegally, adding an element of exploration. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, allowing easy access for divers.
Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant is a versatile dive site suitable for divers of all levels, from Open Water to Technical divers. The lake is home to various species of fish, including crayfish, catfish, bass, perch, and carp. Divers may also encounter some items that have been placed in the lake illegally, adding an element of exploration. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, allowing easy access for divers.
Lake Pleasant - East of Boat Ramp
Lake Pleasant, located east of the boat ramp, is suitable for deeper dives due to its proximity to a 10-lane boat ramp. The site can experience choppy conditions in the morning, influenced by winds from the surrounding mountains. Common marine life includes perch, bass, carp, catfish, and crayfish. Divers may also encounter freshwater shrimp if they are observant.