Santa Barbara Aquatics - California

Santa Barbara Aquatics runs trips out to the Channel Islands, offering a solid base for exploring Southern California's kelp forests. They're a practical choice if you're looking for organised boat dives in the area. We’d suggest them for divers keen on temperate water diving, especially those interested in spotting garibaldi and navigating the golden fronds.

Location
California, United States, North America
Coordinates
34.436058, -119.827250
Phone
+1 805-967-4456
Email
[email protected]
Website
https://santabarbaraaquatics.com/
Certification Agencies
PADI
Courses
PADI Open Water, Dive Classes, Swim Classes
Address
5822, Hollister Avenue, Goleta, 93117

Dive Sites Near Santa Barbara Aquatics

Santa Barbara Aquatics provides access to 15 dive sites in California.

Other Dive Centres in California

Best Time to Dive in California

The warmest water temperatures in California occur in August, averaging 20.6°C (up to 24.0°C). The coolest conditions are in February at 14.0°C.

The calmest sea conditions are typically in July with average wave heights of 0.60m.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 14.4°C (air: 14.0°C)
  • February: 14.0°C (air: 13.8°C)
  • March: 14.2°C (air: 13.3°C)
  • April: 14.9°C (air: 14.3°C)
  • May: 16.6°C (air: 15.4°C)
  • June: 18.9°C (air: 17.4°C)
  • July: 20.4°C (air: 18.9°C)
  • August: 20.6°C (air: 19.6°C)
  • September: 20.4°C (air: 19.7°C)
  • October: 18.8°C (air: 18.4°C)
  • November: 16.3°C (air: 16.0°C)
  • December: 15.6°C (air: 14.3°C)

Marine Life in California

Home to 10 recorded species including 8 reef fish, 1 other, 1 octopus & squid.

Notable Marine Life

Recommended Packing List for California

Based on average water temperature of 17.1°C.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 17°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories