Aqua Safaris

California, United States

The team at Aqua Safaris are the go-to for anyone looking to properly dive California’s central coast. These folks have been around long enough to know the local conditions inside and out. We really like their focus on making you a comfortable, competent diver, especially if you’re new to the chillier West Coast waters. They’re brilliant for getting your Open Water certification, but also solid if you’re looking to get serious with your rescue or specialty training. Head out with them and you’ll find yourself finning through kelp forests where giant fronds sway gently in the surge, sunbeams dappling through the canopy. We've often spotted playful sea lions darting past, their streamlined bodies twisting through the greens and yellows. Visibility can be a mixed bag, honest truth, but on a good day, you'll see purple sea urchins clinging to rocks and bright orange garibaldi flashing by. They run regular trips to local spots, and we’d suggest asking about their morning charters; often less crowded and the light can be stunning as it breaks over the water. Pack an extra layer, even in summer, the boat rides get breezy.