This dive site offers a classic California shore diving experience through majestic kelp forests. Divers navigate a sandy entry to explore rocky reefs teeming with vibrant invertebrates and rockfish. It is renowned for its macro photography opportunities and beautiful underwater topography.
Carmel River State Beach
Classic California shore dive with lush kelp and wildlife.
Shore Access
12m Avg Depth
20m Max Depth
About this dive site
DivingFreedivingSnorkeling
Site Ratings
Big Marine Life Good
Macro Marine Life Very Good
Landscape Quality Excellent
Water Visibility Good Viz
Brought to you by Aquarius Dive Shop
Plan Your Visit
shore divekelp forestmacro photographycold waterrockfishintermediate
Marine Life
Sea Otter
Lingcod
Giant Green Anemone
Kelp Rockfish
Harbor Seal
Cabezon
Nudibranch
Things to Note
Difficulty:
intermediate
Challenging beach entry with potential for strong surf and surge.
Hazards:
Strong surf/surgecold waterkelp entanglement
Current Strength:
Variable
Nearby Dive Sites
Explore other dive sites in the area
United States, California, Carmel By The Sea Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
World-class kelp forests, dramatic pinnacles, and rich marine life.
United States, California, Carmel By The Sea Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Classic California kelp forest dive with dramatic rocky topography.
United States, California, Carmel By The Sea Carmel Bay State Marine Conservation Area
Stunning kelp forest over dramatic granite reefs and pinnacles.