First time diving in CA-- recs please!

[acjwalters]

Hello all, I'm looking forward to some honest advice from you pros. I can also share my own somewhat limited experiences diving in Hawaii (Big Island rocks!), Mexico and Grand Cayman. Hubby and I are planning to dive CA for the first time this summer (hoping to see seals!), but the reports I've been reading on the web are making me a little nervous. Can anyone share tips, best places to go (Anacapa vs. Catalina, or other places?), pitfalls (diving in kelp, etc.), best dive shops w/best rates? (Do need to rent equipment, as we live in AZ so don't get the chance to get underwater too often.) Any advice greatly appreciated! (Oh yeah, and I'm a wimp when it comes to cold water...)

 

[Diver Lori]

If you re-post your question in the "California Kelp Divers" forum, you will get a wealth of information. I posted there two years ago before I made a trip to the LA area and got lots of great information on dive boats.

 

[johnjovan]

I dont know where the reports available..hope you can collect through online...you should be well practised before your attempt..all the best