There was supposed to be a storm hitting today.
Breakwall parking lot deserted. Maybe everyone forgot to set their clocks, but that can't be it, it was fall back when I reset my watch. As I was looking at conditions I overheard an instructor telling his students to pay parking after the briefing since they don't patrol the lot until noon (this BTW is incorrect). I decided to set up a few things before paying my parking.
Took my time getting the camera and other gear all ready. Then a relaxed stroll to the water. Entry was bathtub like, and the swim to #8 was very pleasant. Super calm seas, bright and clear day, with a view of the bottom to at least #6.
Descended at #8 and drifted slowly along the interface between the sand and the rocks all the to the very end of the jetty
Took pictures and a few video clips along the way.
Watched the huge schools of Blue Rockfish, Pile perch, and probably Halfmoons at the end.
Turned the dive after 50+ minutes and about 1/3 of my air. Drifted up to 25' and started a slow return ( against the current). I was really enjoying the dive and checked the clock time on my computer. 11:31am, not bad -- WAIT, @#$$@, I forgot to pay for parking! They don't check until noon according to what I overheard. 25 minutes, I can do that. Switch to overdrive. There are lots more fish at this level and even one sea lion. I slow for a few pictures, but mostly motor on.
Made it back to my car a few minutes before noon, dump my tank, grab my wallet, and pay for parking. It wasn't until I looked at my wristwatch that it dawned on me that my computer was still on daylight savings time. Face palm. I had about 80 minutes to get back.
Great dive. Fantastic life. Good visibility - could see the surface from 40 ft, with a horizontal viz of 20+. Temp 57-59. Dive time 78 min. And best of all, no ticket.
Lesson learned - pay the parking fee FIRST, even if you don't get a ticket it can impact the dive.
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