Monterey
Monterey is celebrated as the crown jewel of California diving, offering a world-class cold-water experience within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. What makes it truly special is the majestic giant kelp forests, which create breathtaking underwater cathedrals teeming with life. Divers can navigate through these dense, sun-dappled environments, discovering a unique ecosystem that thrives in the nutrient-rich Pacific waters. The area is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and accessible shore diving, making it a bucket-list destination for divers of all levels seeking a different kind of underwater adventure.
Diving conditions in Monterey are consistently cool, requiring proper thermal protection like a 7mm wetsuit or a drysuit. Visibility can be variable but is often best in the fall. Divers should visit to witness the unparalleled marine life, including playful sea lions, charming sea otters, harbor seals, and a vast array of rockfish and invertebrates. With 8 distinct sites offering easy access and unique underwater topography, Monterey provides an unforgettable glimpse into the wild, rugged beauty of California's central coast.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Monterey, United States?
The most popular dive site in Monterey, United States is undoubtedly San Carlos Beach, often called 'Breakwater'. Its popularity stems from its easy beach entry and protection from open ocean swell by a large stone jetty, making it ideal for all skill levels. It offers reliable encounters with sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and a huge variety of fish and invertebrates. Its accessibility and calm conditions make it a favorite for training and night dives.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Monterey, United States?
Well-known sites in Monterey, United States include the popular Breakwater and the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which requires reservations. For a less crowded but equally rewarding experience, divers can explore Lovers Point in Pacific Grove, known for its interesting rock formations. More advanced divers might tackle the challenging conditions at Monastery Beach in Carmel, a deep-sloping beach known for its dramatic underwater canyon and unique marine life.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Monterey, United States?
Water temperatures in Monterey, United States are consistently cold year-round. Expect temperatures to range from 48°F to 55°F (9°C to 13°C). There is very little seasonal fluctuation, though the water may be a couple of degrees warmer in the late summer and fall months (August-October). Proper thermal protection is essential for a comfortable and safe diving experience in these waters.
When is the best time to visit Monterey, United States?
The best time for diving in Monterey, United States is typically late summer through fall, from August to November. During this period, the ocean is generally calmer, and underwater visibility is at its peak, often exceeding 30 feet (10 meters). While diving is possible year-round, winter can bring larger swells and reduced visibility. The fall season offers the most predictable and enjoyable conditions for exploring the kelp forests.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Monterey, United States?
Underwater visibility in Monterey, United States is highly variable and can change daily. On average, you can expect visibility in the range of 15 to 40 feet (5 to 12 meters). The best conditions are typically found in the fall (August-November) when plankton blooms subside. After heavy rains or strong winds, visibility can drop significantly. It's always best to check local dive reports just before your dive.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Monterey, United States?
While you won't find manta rays or whale sharks, Monterey, United States hosts spectacular whale migrations. Gray whales pass by from December to April, while humpback and blue whales are often seen feeding in the bay during summer and fall. In the water, you can witness seasonal pupping seasons for harbor seals (spring) and California sea lions (summer), which can make for very active and curious encounters at dive sites like the Breakwater.
What marine life can I expect to see in Monterey, United States?
In Monterey, United States, you can expect to see playful California sea lions, harbor seals, and the iconic sea otter. The kelp forests are home to numerous species of rockfish (vermilion, blue, gopher), lingcod, and cabezon. The rocky reefs are covered in colorful invertebrates, including a huge diversity of nudibranchs, anemones, crabs, and sea stars. It's a macro photographer's paradise and a haven for lovers of unique cold-water species.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Monterey, United States?
For diving in Monterey, United States, a 7mm wetsuit with a hood, gloves, and boots is the absolute minimum recommendation due to the cold water. However, a drysuit is highly recommended and is the standard choice for local divers. A drysuit provides superior warmth and comfort, allowing for longer, more enjoyable dives and making multiple dives in one day much more pleasant.
How do I get to Monterey, United States?
To get to Monterey, United States, you can fly into Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) for the most direct access. For more flight options and potentially lower fares, consider flying into Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC), about a 90-minute drive away, or San Francisco International Airport (SFO), a 2-hour drive. A rental car is highly recommended for traveling between dive sites, which are spread out along the coast.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Monterey, United States?
You should plan to stay on shore when diving in Monterey, United States. The area's dive sites are almost exclusively accessed from the beach or via small, local day-charter boats. There are no traditional liveaboards operating in Monterey Bay. Shore-based accommodations are plentiful and provide the necessary flexibility to access the region's famous shore dives and arrange day boat trips.