

Best for beginner divers, 7-14m, boat entry, mild current.
Cat Canyon is a reef and kelp forest site located off Santa Barbara Island. Divers typically explore depths between 7 and 14 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres. The site features mild currents and visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres, making it suitable for beginners. Access is by boat only, and divers should remain aware of surge and swell conditions to avoid entanglement in the kelp. The site is also available for night diving. Due to water temperatures between 15C and 18C, a wetsuit of at least 5mm is recommended. Always monitor for boat traffic when surfacing.
33.46500, -119.03528
Wear a wetsuit of at least 5mm as water temperatures sit between 15C and 18C even in summer. Keep an eye on boat traffic during your safety stop and use a surface marker buoy so your skipper and passing vessels can see you clearly.
Access info coming soon
Recorded at this site
Depth
7-14m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
15-18°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Sep, Oct, Nov
Yes, the site features mild currents and a moderate depth range, making it manageable for newly certified divers.
The site ranges from 7 to 14 metres in depth, with an average depth of 10 metres.
Cat Canyon is a boat-access site located 2000 metres from shore.
Divers should watch for boat traffic when surfacing and remain aware of surge and swell conditions to avoid entanglement in the kelp forest.
While the site is primarily used for diving, the shallow reef and kelp forest structure may be accessible for snorkelling depending on surface conditions.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Cat Canyon in LA County. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cat Canyon in LA County. Water temperatures range from 15°C to 18°C.
The best months to visit Cat Canyon in LA County are September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Cat Canyon in LA County typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Cat Canyon in LA County typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.