Diving in Southern California

California’s southern coast has warmer water for diving than the northern coast; however, you will find water is still fairly chilly. During the summer, you may be able to dive in a 5mm or 7mm (.20 to .28 inches) wetsuit without a hood; however, during the winter, we highly recommend a semi-dry wetsuit or drysuit. Some dive sites you can’t miss are the famous “Wreck Alley,” the Point Loma kelp beds, and the beach diving of La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Cove where you are certain to encounter sea lions. Make sure you go diving in the Offshore Oil Rigs, a favorite of local divers, as well as in Catalina Island.

Dive Sites in Southern California

The descriptions provided here are intended as general information and personal experiences related to specific dive sites and locations and should not be construed as definitive advice or recommendations. Before diving, please confirm that diving is permitted at your chosen location, and comply with all relevant local laws, regulations, and posted signage. The responsibility for verifying the legality of the dive and assessing any associated risks rests entirely with you.