

Best for beginner divers, 13-14m, boat entry, mild current.
San Clemente North is a boat-access dive site located 112 metres from shore near Avalon. The underwater topography is diverse, featuring a combination of reef, kelp forest, wall, canyon, and pinnacle structures. Divers can expect an average depth of 13 metres, with a range between 13 and 14 metres. Conditions include mild currents and visibility typically between 5 and 10 metres. Due to potential surge and variable visibility, divers should remain close to their buddy. Heavy boat traffic is a hazard, so always deploy a signal tube upon ascent. Water temperatures range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
33.03735, -118.59998
Boat traffic around San Clemente Island is a real consideration, so always surface with a signal tube deployed and stay aware of your position relative to the vessel. Visibility can drop without much warning, so confirm dive conditions with your operator before descending.
Accessible only via operators offering multiple-day-liveaboard or all-day trips from the Los Angeles and San Diego areas.
Recorded at this site
Depth
13-14m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
15-20°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Species recorded around this area include California Sea Lion, Garibaldi, Spanish Shawl, Eagle Ray, Atlantic Pyrosomes, Wrasses, Kelp Bass, Klipfish, Ochre Sea Star, Snail, Chromis, and Striped Shore Crab.
Yes, San Clemente North is rated as suitable for beginner divers due to the manageable depth and mild currents.
The site has an average depth of 13 metres, with a total depth range of 13 to 14 metres.
This is a boat-access only site; you must arrive by vessel.
While the site is primarily used for diving, the depth range of 13 to 14 metres makes it better suited for scuba diving than snorkelling.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at San Clemente North in LA County. Water temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C.
The best months to visit San Clemente North in LA County are June, July, August, September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
San Clemente North in LA County typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at San Clemente North in LA County typically ranges from 5 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.