

Best for beginner divers, 20-25m, boat entry, mild current.
Cape Cortes, located off Two Harbors, features a combination of reef and kelp forest environments. Divers typically explore depths between 20 and 25 metres, with visibility ranging from 10 to 24 metres. The site is accessible by boat only and experiences mild currents. Due to water temperatures between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius and the presence of thermoclines, a 7mm wetsuit or drysuit is recommended. Divers should monitor depth and bottom time to manage risks associated with nitrogen narcosis and decompression. Surface boat traffic requires caution during ascents, and care should be taken to avoid entanglement within the kelp forest.
33.42972, -118.53487
Dive the eastern edge during incoming tides when upwelling currents concentrate baitfish and attract pelagic predators to feeding stations.
Boat access is required to reach this exposed reef system.
Recorded at this site
Depth
20-25m
Visibility
10-24m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
15-18°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jul, Aug
Yes, the site is suitable for beginner divers, though the depth and cold water conditions require careful monitoring of bottom time and nitrogen narcosis risks.
The site features depths ranging from 20 to 25 metres, with an average depth of 22 metres.
Cape Cortes is a boat-only dive site located approximately 8000 metres from the shore.
Hazards include boat traffic, cold water, thermoclines, entanglement in kelp, and potential injury from sea urchins.
Yes, night diving is permitted at this site.
Diving at Cape Cortes in LA County requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Cape Cortes in LA County. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cape Cortes in LA County. Water temperatures range from 15°C to 18°C.
The best months to visit Cape Cortes in LA County are July and August. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Cape Cortes in LA County typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Cape Cortes in LA County typically ranges from 10 metres to 24 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.