Recommendation for local DM / Locations

We are heading to Palm Springs over new years and my two boys (17 / 15) and me are looking to drive to the coast for a day of diving. I'm looking for recommendations for a dive shop / dive boat / DM to work with and for recommendations on where to go (likely within about 2 hrs 30 min of Palm Springs). That brings in LA, San Diego etc.

Tks.

That's a wide range of choices. Laguna maybe the closest. LA for good adventurous dives( Eco Dive Center, DiveNSurf, Pacific Wilderness for good shops.) San Diego, wrecks, and a treat of marinelife that's been the norm there.
The conditions have been the best in a long time! At the same time conditions have been the least best, they're changing fast. Unless you're looking for island dives, check the last minute details on conditions where your choices are. It's getting that time of year that southernish facing shores are aimed for. You just never know. Have fun!

Check with Horizon dive boat in San Diego. http://horizoncharters.com/rent-gear

They can provide rental gears and DM services. You must let them know that you want DM services because Cali DMs stay with the boat. Only a DM that was specifically requested by the customer will accompany the customer in the water.