

Best for advanced divers, 45-68m, boat entry, moderate current.
Osborn Bank is an advanced offshore site located near Santa Barbara Island, featuring a complex topography of reefs, walls, pinnacles, and drop-offs. Divers encounter depths ranging from 45 to 68 metres, with an average depth of 55 metres. The site is accessible only by boat and is subject to moderate currents. Visibility is generally around 30 metres. Due to the deep nature of the site and the presence of overhead cave environments, advanced certification is required. Water temperatures are cool, ranging from 12 to 15 degrees Celsius, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. Species recorded around this area include California sea lions, Garibaldi, and various wrasses.
33.35990, -119.04208
Plan your dive around slack water to manage the moderate current, and confirm conditions with your charter operator before departure as surface boat traffic adds an additional hazard on ascent. Check locally for current facilities, as no permanent amenities are confirmed at this offshore site.
Requires a boat trip from Port Hueneme, taking 2.5 to 3 hours.
Recorded at this site
Depth
45-68m
Visibility
30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
12-15°C
Current
Moderate
Species recorded around this area include California sea lions, Northern elephant seals, Garibaldi, Spanish shawl nudibranchs, wrasses, scorpionfish, California spiny lobsters, sea hares, sea stars, brittle stars, California golden gorgonians, kelp bass, klipfish, and snails.
No, Osborn Bank is intended for advanced divers only. The site requires deep diving experience and the ability to manage moderate currents and overhead cave environments.
The site ranges from 45 to 68 metres in depth, with an average depth of 55 metres.
No, this is a deep-water site with an average depth of 55 metres, making it unsuitable for snorkelling.
This is a boat-only site. Divers must arrange transport via a charter operator.
Hazards include deep water, moderate currents, overhead cave environments, and surface boat traffic. Divers should plan for slack water and maintain situational awareness during ascent.
Diving at Osborn Bank in LA County requires the following certifications: Advanced, Deep. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Osborn Bank in LA County. Water temperatures range from 12°C to 15°C.
Expect moderate currents at Osborn Bank in LA County. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Osborn Bank in LA County typically ranges from 30 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.