Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara offers an accessible dive site suitable for beginners. The topography consists of a shallow, sloping sandy bottom. Divers and snorkellers can access the water via both shore and boat entries. Conditions at this location are variable, with visibility typically limited to around one metre. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging between 25C and 30C. Due to the nature of the sandy substrate, the site is best suited for those looking for a relaxed, shallow dive in a central location.

Butterfly Beach on Santa Cruz Island is a shallow shore dive suitable for beginners. The site features a mix of natural reef and artificial reef structures, with depths ranging from 6 to 9 metres. Divers often encounter harbour seals, which are common, and occasionally California sea lions. Other marine life includes California spiny lobsters, various crabs, sea stars, and sea squirts. Visibility is generally low, often reaching a maximum of 3 metres, and conditions can be affected by surf and surge. The site is also used for night diving and as a training location. Divers should be aware of potential jellyfish and mild currents when planning their entry.

Biltmore is a reef and kelp forest site located off Santa Cruz Island. Divers typically explore depths between 15 and 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Conditions are variable, with visibility ranging from 5 to 20 metres and water temperatures between 12 and 16 degrees Celsius. The site is accessible by both boat and shore, though shore entries require caution due to surf and shore break. Currents are generally mild, but divers should remain vigilant regarding surge, swell, and boat traffic. This site is suited for intermediate divers, with typical dive times around 40 minutes.

Goleta Beach Park offers an accessible entry point for divers and snorkellers of all skill levels. The site features a sandy bottom and is well-suited for beginners due to straightforward navigation. Water temperatures are warm, ranging between 25C and 30C throughout the year. Visibility is generally limited, typically measuring between 1 and 6 metres. Beachside facilities are available for visitors, making this a convenient location for shore or boat-based activities. The site provides a consistent environment for those looking to practice skills or enjoy a relaxed dive in a shallow coastal setting.

Coal Oil Point on Santa Cruz Island offers a varied underwater environment consisting of reef, kelp forest, and seagrass. Divers can explore depths between 10 and 30 metres. The site is accessible by both boat and shore, though shore entries require navigating surf and shore break. Currents are generally mild, and visibility is typically around 5 metres. Water temperatures range from 11 to 15 degrees Celsius, requiring appropriate thermal protection. Due to the potential for boat traffic and surf conditions, this site is suitable for divers who possess strong buoyancy control and buddy awareness.

Refugio State Beach offers accessible shore entry to reefs located at both ends of the cove. This site features a mix of reef and kelp forest habitats at depths of 1 to 2 metres. Divers and snorkellers may encounter species including the Lesser Two-spot Octopus, Horn Shark, and various nudibranchs such as the Spanish Shawl, Monterey Dorid, and Hermissenda. Other occasional sightings include the Garibaldi, Scorpionfish, and California Spiny Lobster. Conditions are generally mild, though visibility varies up to 10 metres. Water temperatures range from 13 to 18C, making a wetsuit recommended. Hazards include rip currents and the presence of sharks. Facilities include parking, toilets, showers, and a rinse station.

Refugio is a shallow reef and kelp forest site located in Channel Islands National Park. Divers access the site via a shore entry approximately 75 metres from the beach. The area features depths ranging from 5 to 9 metres, with an average of 7 metres, making it suitable for beginners. Visibility typically fluctuates between 3 and 10 metres. Water temperatures are cool, ranging from 13 to 17 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Divers should exercise caution during entry and when navigating the reef bottom to avoid contact with sea urchins. On-site facilities include parking, toilets, showers, a cafe, and a dive shop for equipment rentals.

Tajiguas is a shore-accessible site along the Santa Barbara coastline featuring a combination of reef structure and kelp forest. Divers can explore depths ranging from 6 to 20 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres. Conditions vary, with visibility fluctuating between 3 and 30 metres and water temperatures ranging from 12 to 16 degrees Celsius. The current is generally mild, though rip currents and a challenging shore break require careful navigation during entry and exit. The site is suitable for intermediate divers and supports night diving. Parking is available on-site. Divers should shuffle their feet to avoid sea urchins on the seabed.