This dive site features a quintessential Southern California experience with lush kelp forests, rocky reefs, and interesting topography like swim-throughs and canyons. It is highly accessible as a shore dive, offering a rich marine ecosystem just a short swim from the beach. The dramatic underwater kelp and rock structures make it a favorite for local photographers.
Leo Carrillo
Classic California shore dive with lush kelp forests.
Shore Access
9m Avg Depth
15m 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
Plan Your Visit
shore divekelp forestrocky reefmacro photographybeginner friendlysea lionswim-throughwide angle
Marine Life
Garibaldi
Spiny Squat Lobster
Horn Shark
Snowflake Moray
Bat Ray
California Sheephead
Harbor Seal
Cabezon
Nudibranch
Sea Lion
Rockfish
Things to Note
Difficulty:
Beginner/Intermediate
Shallow dive profile, but surf entry can be challenging.
Hazards:
surf entrysurgeentanglement
Current Strength:
Mild
Nearby Dive Sites
Explore other dive sites in the area
United States, California, Malibu Point Dume State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA)
Advanced shore dive to offshore kelp forest pinnacles.
United States, California, Monterey Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Easy, protected shore dive ideal for training and macro life.
United States, California, Monterey Lovers Point-Julia Platt State Marine Reserve
Iconic kelp forest reefs with rich marine life.