California is best known for its long beaches, warm weather and surfers. Yet California is also a famed diving location. Long coastlines stretching from North to South, plus the many outlying islands, provide numerous dive spots abounding with sea life and diversity underwater.
Catalina Island, just off the coast of Southern California, is probably best known for its kelp forests which line the rocky bottom. Sunlight streaming through the foliage creates amazing patterns of light, offering a magical sight underwater. The giant kelp is not the only living attraction in Catalina waters. Gaudy Garibaldi fish, California lobsters, electric torpedo rays, mako, leopard and horn sharks can all be frequently observed.
If you are in the right place at the right time you may also receive a visit from a curious sealion, interested in the “big, bubble-blowing animal” that has entered its realm. These marine mammals have fascinating eyes, as soft and enchanting as those of a cuddly puppy dog. They are also incredible free-divers, capable of staying underwater for up to 20 minutes and diving down to over 470 feet.
The 'warm beaches of California' is really just a description of the exterior temperature in the most Southern location. In fact, temperatures range from 60 to 70 °F depending on the location. Underwater, the Pacific Ocean risks to be even colder, no matter what the season. At depth temperatures can be lower than 55°F. Protection is a must.
SCUBAPRO has created a range of cold water wetsuits that ensure perfect insulation no matter how cold it gets. The 6,5mm thickness of the Nova Scotia semi-dry suit or the advanced layering options of the EverFlex wetsuits will ensure a comfortable and warm dive.
