USS John C Butler DD-339 - California

The USS John C. Butler, DD-339, isn't just a pile of metal on the seabed, it’s a genuine piece of history, and we love diving it for that exact reason. Dropping down, you immediately sense the scale of this destroyer escort, even in its broken state. There's a real drama to how it’s settled, especially the way the stern section angles into the sand, making for some fantastic swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments. Our favourite part has to be exploring the engine room. It’s remarkably intact, with gauges still visible, and you can almost hear the hum of machinery. Keep an eye out for the resident cabezon – they often hang out in the shadowy corners of the deeper sections. Visibility can be hit or miss, typical for Southern California, so we always aim for a dive after a few days of calm seas. It’s definitely a site for experienced wreck divers; the currents here can be a bit frisky, and it's deep enough that you need to watch your bottom time.

Location
California, United States, North America
Coordinates
33.036068, -118.582700
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Farnsworth Offshore (Catalina Island) State Marine Conservation Area

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 USS John C Butler DD-339

Marine Life in California

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

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for USS John C Butler DD-339

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