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Log This Dive

Swordfish Island

Swordfish Island always feels like a proper adventure. Getting there usually means a boat ride through some choppy water, but the reward is worth it. We love dropping into the kelp forests here, especially on a sunny day when the light filters down through the fronds, creating this ethereal green glow. It’s cool and calm once you’re down there, and the giant octopus population is simply incredible. We’ve found ourselves just watching one for twenty minutes, mesmerized by the way it flows over the rocks. Beyond the octopuses, keep an eye out for the California spot prawns, often tucked into crevices, and the surprisingly graceful big skates gliding across the sandy patches. Up top, the birdlife is equally impressive; we often spot Bald Eagles circling overhead while preparing to dive. Our best tip? Go on a slack tide, if you can time it. The currents here can pick up, making it a bit of a workout, but on a calm day, it’s a truly peaceful dive. This spot suits divers who appreciate a cooler water environment and a chance to really observe individual creatures rather than just speed through.