

Best for beginner divers, 3-4m, boat entry, mild current.
Cathedral Cove at Anacapa Island is a shallow kelp forest and reef site accessible only by boat. Divers typically explore depths of 3 to 4 metres, making it suitable for beginners. The site is known for frequent encounters with California sea lions, which are very common. Other marine life recorded here includes Spanish shawl nudibranchs, horn sharks, garibaldi, and California spiny lobster. Conditions vary, with visibility ranging from 10 to 20 metres and mild currents. Divers should be aware of potential hazards including boat traffic, cold water, rip currents, surf, and surge. Water temperatures fluctuate between 14C and 20C throughout the year.
34.01370, -119.37500
A visit to the Channel Islands is an exercise in preparation and self-reliance as there are no services such as food stores or gear rental shops on the islands.
The islands are accessible only by park concessionaire boats or private boat and reservations must be made in advance.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-4m
Visibility
10-20m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
14-20°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
California sea lions are very common at this site. Divers also record Spanish shawl nudibranchs, horn sharks, garibaldi, California spiny lobster, harbor seals, and various sea slugs.
Yes, the shallow depth of 3 to 4 metres makes this site suitable for beginner divers.
The site is shallow, with typical depths ranging between 3 and 4 metres.
This is a boat dive; a boat is required to access the site as it is located 61 kilometres from the shore.
Given the shallow depth of 3 to 4 metres, the site is accessible for snorkelling.
Diving at Cathedral Cove (Sealions) in Ventura requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cathedral Cove (Sealions) in Ventura. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 20°C.
Cathedral Cove (Sealions) in Ventura typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Cathedral Cove (Sealions) in Ventura typically ranges from 10 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.