

Best for intermediate divers, 20-40m, boat entry, mild current.
Point Bennett is a reef and kelp forest site located off San Miguel Island. Accessible only by boat, this intermediate dive features depths ranging from 20 to 40 metres with an average of 15 metres. Visibility typically spans 10 to 25 metres. Water temperatures are consistently cold, ranging between 12 and 14 degrees Celsius, necessitating a drysuit or thick wetsuit. Divers should be aware of mild currents that can strengthen, as well as potential boat traffic, sharp rocks, and sharks. Species recorded around this area include Northern Elephant Seals, California Sea Lions, Scorpionfish, various nudibranchs, and crustaceans.
34.03142, -120.45053
Pack a minimum 7mm wetsuit or drysuit given the consistent cold water, and confirm current conditions with your boat operator before descending, as localised surges around the reef can exceed the usual mild baseline.
Access info coming soon
Recorded at this site
Depth
20-40m
Visibility
10-25m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
12-14°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Species recorded around this area include Northern Elephant Seals, California Sea Lions, Scorpionfish, Clown Dorids, White-speckled Dorids, sea stars, brittle stars, crabs, snails, sea squirts, and fanworms.
No, Point Bennett is classified as an intermediate dive site due to the depth, cold water, and potential for strengthening currents.
The depth at Point Bennett ranges from 20 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site located approximately 96 kilometres from shore.
Due to the depth range of 20 to 40 metres and the intermediate skill requirement, this site is primarily intended for scuba diving.
Divers should remain vigilant for boat traffic, sharks, sharp rocks, and currents that can become strong.
Diving at Point Bennett in Santa Barbara requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Point Bennett in Santa Barbara. Water temperatures range from 12°C to 14°C.
Point Bennett in Santa Barbara typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Point Bennett in Santa Barbara typically ranges from 10 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.