

Best for advanced divers, 25-40m, boat entry, strong current.
Cortez Bank is a submerged pinnacle located 160 kilometres off the coast of California. The site rises from deep water to a minimum depth of 25 metres, with typical dives ranging between 25 and 40 metres. Divers experience strong, unpredictable currents and consistent visibility of 30 metres. Due to the significant depth and remote location, this site is strictly for advanced divers requiring deep and nitrox certifications. Access is by boat only, and surface conditions can be rough. Water temperatures remain between 13 and 16 degrees Celsius, necessitating a drysuit or thick wetsuit. Divers should carry a surface marker buoy and dive knife while monitoring for boat traffic.
32.43167, -119.08833
Current direction and strength at Cortez Bank can shift quickly with little warning, so brief thoroughly with your skipper on abort signals and pick-up procedures before descent. Pack a surface marker buoy and a dive knife as standard kit for this site.
Accessible only by boat, approximately 100 miles from San Diego or Los Angeles.
Recorded at this site
Depth
25-40m
Visibility
30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
13-16°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
60 min
The habitat supports a variety of marine life including various shark species, rays, sea turtles, California sea lions, and ocean sunfish.
No, Cortez Bank is an advanced site requiring deep and nitrox certifications due to the significant depth and strong, unpredictable currents.
The pinnacle rises to 25 metres at its shallowest point, with typical dives occurring between 25 and 40 metres.
Cortez Bank is accessible by boat only, located approximately 160 kilometres from the coast.
Visibility is consistently 30 metres, while water temperatures range from 13 to 16 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
Diving at Cortez Bank in LA County requires the following certifications: Nitrox, Deep. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Cortez Bank in LA County. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 16°C.