Dive Santa Barbara

California, United States

The team at Dive Santa Barbara are the people you want guiding you into the Channel Islands. They've been kitting out California divers for over 30 years, and it shows in their easy confidence and local knowledge. This is your pick if you’re looking to explore the cool, nutrient-rich waters of the Pacific, especially around Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands. We love that they’re so focused on local diving. They really know their stuff out here, from where the garibaldi are nesting to the best spots for spotting a playful sea lion. The shop itself has that comfortable, lived-in feel of a good dive shop, smelling faintly of neoprene and salt. We’d suggest chatting with them about current conditions; the Channel Islands can throw up a surprise or two, but they’ll know if the swell is up or if the visibility is particularly good in the kelp forests. Expect giant kelp swaying like underwater Redwood forests, chilly but invigorating water, and some truly unique macro life hiding among the fronds. If you’re into temperate diving and aren't afraid of a bit of a boat ride, these are your people.

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