Diving in California

United States

213 dive sites

120 dive centres

California diving, for us, is all about the kelp. Forget your tropical corals for a moment; the sensation of drifting through a towering kelp forest, light dappling through the canopy, is something else entirely. We're talking the Channel Islands, where the giant kelp sways like a hypnotic underwater cathedral. You'll often find sea lions zipping playfully through the fronds, their inquisitive eyes checking you out. Monterey Bay offers a different vibe, often a bit chillier but equally rewarding. The sheer volume of life you find in that marine sanctuary is astounding. Think nudibranchs in every colour imaginable, grumpy-looking lingcod peering from crevices, and the occasional curious harbor seal. La Jolla, further south, has its seasonal draw: leopard sharks gathering in the shallows during late summer and early autumn. It's a surreal experience to fin gently among dozens of these docile creatures. Currents can be a factor, especially at the Channel Islands, so it’s wise to pick your days and chat with the local dive operators. We always pack an extra layer for surface intervals here, even on sunny days.