

Best for beginner divers, 3-30m, shore entry, moderate current.
La Jolla Cove is a protected marine sanctuary in San Diego, United States, offering diverse underwater topography including reef, kelp forest, cave, and seagrass habitats. Divers and snorkellers access the site via concrete stairs leading into a sheltered cove. Depths range from 3 to 30 metres, with an average of 10 metres. Conditions include moderate currents, surge, and surf, with visibility between 3 and 12 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 14C and 19C, necessitating a 7mm wetsuit year-round. Hazards include rip currents, entanglement, and strong currents. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and showers. Night diving is permitted, with typical dives lasting 50 minutes.
32.85062, -117.27252
The most active sea lion season is in the fall months from September through November.
Entry is via concrete stairs down to the cove. A 5-10 minute surface swim is required to reach sufficient depth.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-30m
Visibility
3-12m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
14-19°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Yes, the site is rated as suitable for beginners.
Depths range from 3 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres.
Yes, entry is via concrete stairs that lead directly into the cove.
Yes, the site is well-suited for snorkelling and holds a 5/5 rating for the activity.
Divers and snorkellers should be aware of rip currents, strong currents, surf, surge, entanglement, and the presence of sharks.
Diving at La Jolla Cove in San Diego requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at La Jolla Cove in San Diego. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 19°C.
Expect moderate currents at La Jolla Cove in San Diego. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at La Jolla Cove in San Diego typically ranges from 3 metres to 12 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.