Dive-site story
Situated off the Palos Verdes Peninsula at the site of the former Marineland oceanarium, this spot features dense giant kelp forests, rocky reefs, and dramatic underwater drop-offs. Divers navigate past large boulder formations and rocky ledges that slope down toward deeper waters, offering quintessential Southern California temperate diving. Shore access follows a trail from the public parking area down to a rocky cove, requiring good footing over cobblestones before kicking out through the kelp canopy.
Extensive giant kelp canopy creating towering underwater forests
Rocky reef structure with crevices, overhangs, and small walls
Frequent encounters with resident seals, sea lions, and horn sharks
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 and the most consistent water clarity.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GaribaldiHypsypops rubicundus | Common | ||||||||||||
| California sheepheadSemicossyphus pulcher | Common | ||||||||||||
| California sea lionZalophus californianus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Horn sharkHeterodontus francisci | Common | ||||||||||||
| Giant sea bassStereolepis gigas | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Spanish shawl nudibranchCoryphella iodinea | Common |
Marine forecast
