LA area for diving in March? Catalina?

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Messages
4
Reaction score
1
Location
New York, NY
# of dives
50 - 99
Hi, I will be visiting LA for work at the end of the month (March 2024) and I was wondering if it’s worth bringing my gear out for a few days to get some diving in. My last dives were in Cozumel and Cenotes in January 2024 but I most frequently dive in the Florida Keys though I live in NYC. I am a warm water diver (I only own a 3mm wetsuit) so I am also wondering if I purchase a 7mm suit if that would be enough? I’m wondering if the diving in the area is worth the trouble and if so, where I should go and operators to use. Thanks again for any insights.
 
Unfortunately, March might be the worst time of the year to dive California. We've had a wet winter so far, so there are lots of nutrients washed into the water and the longer days mean the algae goes nuts -- we can get green algae blooms and red tides around this season. At the same time, the water is still pretty cold (mid 50s is typical) and hasn't started to warm up yet. A good 7mm fullsuit with a hood or hooded vest is minimum for most people.

Having said all that, sometimes you can get lucky and find some clean water (15'+ would be a good day off the beach) and if you can get out to the islands (Catalina or the Northern Channel Islands off Ventura) you might get twice that visibility if you catch it right. Hopefully there is some kelp around this year (we've had warm water last few years and a rough winter, both of which are bad for kelp, but it grows fast and you might get a chance to dive in a lush kelp forest).

If you want to dive the islands, you will need to be here on a weekend (hardly any boats going out midweek these days). There is an option to take a ferry to Catalina and dive the Avalon dive park but it's a lot of work to schlep your own gear and ends up costing almost as much as a charter boat (generally about $150-$200 for 3 dives).

Given all that, if you are gung ho for a dive, DM me your dates I will look into options and let you know what I can find that is available.
 
I just looked at the calendar for the Spectre dive boat out of Ventura (60 miles north of LA) and they are diving Fridays, as well as Sat-Sun. It's $175 for a three tank trip including breakfast, lunch, airfills. That's the only weekday boat I'm aware of.
 
Hi, I will be visiting LA for work at the end of the month (March 2024) and I was wondering if it’s worth bringing my gear out for a few days to get some diving in. My last dives were in Cozumel and Cenotes in January 2024 but I most frequently dive in the Florida Keys though I live in NYC. I am a warm water diver (I only own a 3mm wetsuit) so I am also wondering if I purchase a 7mm suit if that would be enough? I’m wondering if the diving in the area is worth the trouble and if so, where I should go and operators to use. Thanks again for any insights.
The water is brr this time of year. You will also want a hood as well. Trust me so cal water is cold if you aren't used to it.
 
Hi, I will be visiting LA for work at the end of the month (March 2024) and I was wondering if it’s worth bringing my gear out for a few days to get some diving in. My last dives were in Cozumel and Cenotes in January 2024 but I most frequently dive in the Florida Keys though I live in NYC. I am a warm water diver (I only own a 3mm wetsuit) so I am also wondering if I purchase a 7mm suit if that would be enough? I’m wondering if the diving in the area is worth the trouble and if so, where I should go and operators to use. Thanks again for any insights.
You would also have to rent a tank. Do you have cold weather gloves and booties? You would also need to rent weights. I am not sure if it is worth it.
 
You can rent all you need at Avalon on Catalina. Dive the Dive Park with its stairs and railings - pretty easy. Usually much calmer and clearer than mainland. Snorkle first to get adjusted. I'd call the dive shop(s) there and get the prices etc etc. Plus Catalina and Avalon are pretty cool topside too. IMHO If you find your first dive too cold you're feet away from hot showers and good restaurants. Can stay there or just make it a day trip.
 
You can rent all you need at Avalon on Catalina. Dive the Dive Park with its stairs and railings - pretty easy. Usually much calmer and clearer than mainland. Snorkle first to get adjusted. I'd call the dive shop(s) there and get the prices etc etc. Plus Catalina and Avalon are pretty cool topside too. IMHO If you find your first dive too cold you're feet away from hot showers and good restaurants. Can stay there or just make it a day trip.
That is a great suggestion for someone out of town.
 
I agree with all of the posters already. March is the worst time to dive in SoCal. If you are drysuit certified, I would highly suggest a drysuit and Catalina Casino point as a destination.

Cheers!
 

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