NOSC Tower Wreck - California

The NOSC Tower, or what’s left of it, sits off La Jolla Shores, a real favourite for local wreck enthusiasts. This isn’t some ancient galleon, but the remains of an old Navy oceanographic research tower, toppled during a storm in 1988. What you get now is a jumble of concrete pilings and steel girders spread across the seafloor, creating a fascinating artificial reef. We love the way the structure is slowly being reclaimed by the ocean. Think bright orange garibaldi darting between the rebar, schools of blacksmith circling the larger concrete chunks, and if you look closely, nudibranchs like the Spanish shawl clinging to the algae-covered surfaces. There are usually a few horn sharks tucked into crevices, too. Entry is typically a boat ride from La Jolla Cove, but shore dives are possible for those with strong navigation skills and a good surface swim. The depth varies, but most of the interesting stuff is around 18-24 meters, making it accessible for advanced open water divers. Currents can pick up, especially further offshore, so picking a calm day is key. It's a spot that rewards slow exploration, peering into every shadowy corner.

Location
California, United States, North America
Coordinates
32.771927, -117.268680
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: South La Jolla State Marine Reserve

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)

Nearby Dive Sites in California

Nearest Dive Centres to NOSC Tower Wreck

Marine Life in California

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

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for NOSC Tower Wreck

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