Dive-site story
Leo Carrillo State Beach offers classic Southern California temperate diving along the rugged Malibu coastline. Rocky reefs, sandy channels, and dense stands of giant kelp define the underwater terrain. Divers can navigate shallow sea caves and rock arches near the point during calm conditions, while offshore reefs provide shelter for a wide array of Pacific marine life.
Extensive giant kelp forests anchored across rocky shelves
Intertidal sea caves and rock formations around the coastal point
Frequent encounters with horn sharks, leopard sharks, and California sea lions
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Late summer and autumn generally provide warmer water, gentler surf, and the most reliable visibility along the coast.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giant KelpMacrocystis pyrifera | Common | ||||||||||||
| GaribaldiHypsypops rubicundus | Common | ||||||||||||
| California Sea LionZalophus californianus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Horn SharkHeterodontus francisci | Common | ||||||||||||
| Leopard SharkTriakis semifasciata | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| California Spiny LobsterPanulirus interruptus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Giant Pacific OctopusEnteroctopus dofleini | Rare |
Marine forecast
