Cortez Bank
Why dive here
Cortez Bank is a pinnacle dive in California, United States. Water ranges 14-21°C, warmest July, August, September.
Out 100 miles offshore, Cortez Bank is a serious undertaking, even for experienced California divers. You're looking at deep, cold water and often significant currents, which means proper planning and a strong surface support team are essential. What you get in return are chances for pelagics, like blue sharks and even swordfish, along with the resident game fish. This isn't a casual reef dive, it's an expedition for those ready for offshore conditions.
Typical Cortez Bank Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Depth of 25m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Reviews for Cortez Bank
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Cortez Bank
Cortez Bank Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Cortez Bank, sourced from NOAA NDBC buoy data - nearest station: Topanga Nearshore, CA (103) (221km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
19°C
66°F · Range: 14–23.7°C
Air Temperature
18°C
65°F
Wave Height
0.6m
13.8s period
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: NOAA NDBC buoy data
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