

Best for beginner divers, 6-18m, shore entry, mild current.
La Jolla Kelp Forest offers a shore-entry dive into a dense kelp canopy located 90 metres from the beach. The site features a reef environment with depths ranging from 6 to 18 metres, averaging 13 metres. Conditions include mild currents, though divers should be prepared for surge, variable visibility between 3 and 12 metres, and potential kelp entanglement. The shore entry requires navigating surf and shore breaks, making it suitable for beginners who are comfortable with beach entries. Water temperatures fluctuate between 15 and 19 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and guided tours.
32.85298, -117.27690
The shore entry involves a surf and shore break, so time your entry between sets and practise your beach entry before committing. Kelp entanglement is a real consideration here: stay calm if you get wrapped, move slowly, and back out rather than pulling through.
La Jolla Kelp Forest is accessible via shore entry at La Jolla Cove for scuba divers or Boomer Beach for freedivers. Point Loma Kelp Forest requires a boat.
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-18m
Visibility
3-12m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
15-19°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to the mild currents, though the shore entry requires careful timing of the surf and shore break.
The depth at this site ranges from 6 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 13 metres.
This is a shore entry dive located 90 metres from the beach.
Divers should be cautious of surf and shore breaks during entry, as well as surge, variable visibility, and the risk of kelp entanglement while underwater.
While the site is primarily used for diving, the shallow reef areas are accessible for those equipped for snorkelling, provided they are mindful of the surf and kelp.
Diving at La Jolla Kelp Forest 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 Kelp Forest in San Diego. Water temperatures range from 15°C to 19°C.
La Jolla Kelp Forest in San Diego typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at La Jolla Kelp Forest in San Diego typically ranges from 3 metres to 12 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.