

Best for beginner divers, 1-16m, shore entry, moderate current.
Shaw's Cove is a popular shore-entry site on Santa Catalina Island featuring a reef and kelp forest environment. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 1 to 16 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres. The site is located 75 metres from the shore and is suitable for beginners, though users should be prepared for a rocky entry, surf, and surge. Visibility typically ranges between 5 and 15 metres, with moderate currents. Marine life frequently observed includes Garibaldi, Hermissenda, and White-spotted Sea Goddess. Less common sightings include Leopard Shark, California Moray, Spanish Shawl, Lesser Two-spot Octopus, Horn Shark, Harbor Seal, wrasses, California Spiny Lobster, Scorpionfish, Clown Dorid, and various drum and croaker species.
33.54503, -117.79867
Use caution when entering and exiting the water.
Located at the top of the Laguna hill near Cliff Drive.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 16m
Visibility
5-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
15-19°C
Current
Moderate
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Common sightings include Garibaldi, Hermissenda, and White-spotted Sea Goddess. You may also encounter Leopard Shark, California Moray, Spanish Shawl, Lesser Two-spot Octopus, Horn Shark, Harbor Seal, wrasses, California Spiny Lobster, Scorpionfish, Clown Dorid, and drum and croaker species.
Yes, Shaw's Cove is considered suitable for beginners, though it requires navigating a rocky entry, surf, and surge.
The depth ranges from 1 to 16 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres.
Shaw's Cove is a shore-entry site located 75 metres from the beach.
Yes, Shaw's Cove is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Shaw's Cove in Laguna Beach. Water temperatures range from 15°C to 19°C.
The best months to visit Shaw's Cove in Laguna Beach are June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Expect moderate currents at Shaw's Cove in Laguna Beach. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Shaw's Cove in Laguna Beach typically ranges from 5 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.