This dive site, Shaws Cove, is a popular beach diving location in Southern California. It offers easy access to the water via a staircase located on the corner of Fairview Street and Cliff Drive. Be mindful of the residential area; please keep noise levels down when visiting. The cove features swim-throughs and abundant marine life, making it an appealing destination for divers. Nearby Crescent Bay (to the west) provides additional amenities such as restrooms and outdoor showers. There are no facilities directly at Shaws Cove.
Shaw's Cove
Popular, shallow shore dive with swim-throughs and abundant macro.
Shore Access
3m Avg Depth
5m Max Depth
About this dive site
DivingFreedivingSnorkeling
Site Ratings
Big Marine Life Fair
Macro Marine Life Very Good
Landscape Quality Very Good
Water Visibility Good Viz
Plan Your Visit
shore divebeginner friendlymacro photographyswim-throughkelp forestrocky reef
Marine Life
Garibaldi
Snowflake Moray
Nudibranch
California Sheephead
Bat Ray
Horn Shark
Blacksmith Chromis
Spiny Squat Lobster
Red Sea Urchin
Things to Note
Difficulty:
Beginner
Easy shore entry into a shallow, protected cove with mild conditions and no significant depth.
Hazards:
SurfSurgeRocky entry
Current Strength:
Mild
Nearby Dive Sites
Explore other dive sites in the area
United States, California, Laguna Beach Laguna Beach State Marine Conservation Area
Classic California kelp forest shore dive in a marine reserve.
United States, California, Laguna Beach Laguna Beach State Marine Reserve
Shallow, rocky cove ideal for beginners and marine life.
