Dive-site story
Located off Isthmus Cove near Two Harbors on Catalina Island, Bird Rock provides classic southern California temperate diving. The emergent rock is encircled by thriving giant kelp, rocky shelves, and steep offshore drop-offs. The outer seaward face steps down through boulder fields and sandy channels, while the sheltered inshore side offers calmer conditions among sunlit amber kelp columns.
Lush giant kelp forest canopy with strong ambient light penetration
Frequent encounters with foraging California sea lions and cruising bat rays
Rocky ledges concealing moray eels, octopus, and horn sharks
Seasonal aggregations of giant sea bass over deeper perimeter sand patches
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Late summer and autumn bring the warmest water temperatures, optimal visibility, and the highest likelihood of seeing giant sea bass.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GaribaldiHypsypops rubicundus | Common | ||||||||||||
| California Sea LionZalophus californianus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Giant Sea BassStereolepis gigas | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| California MorayGymnothorax mordax | Common | ||||||||||||
| Bat RayMyliobatis californica | Common | ||||||||||||
| Horn SharkHeterodontus francisci | Common | ||||||||||||
| Kelp BassParalabrax clathratus | Common |
Marine forecast
