Channel Islands
United States
sea
6 Dive Sites
0 Dive Centers
Explore the pristine waters surrounding the Channel Islands, an eight-island archipelago off Southern California, protected as a National Park and Marine Sanctuary. Discover vibrant kelp forests and an incredible diversity of marine life thriving in these clear, protected habitats.
Best Time to Dive
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14°C | 14°C | 14°C | 15°C | 15°C | 16°C | 16°C | 16°C | 16°C | 15°C | 14°C | 14°C |
Peak Season
April, May, June, January, February, March, July, August, September, October
Jan
Good visibility, kelp forests are vibrant, potential for whale sightings.
Feb
Similar to January, good for observing seals and sea lions.
Mar
Visibility improves, migrating whales may be seen offshore.
Apr
Spring bloom, excellent visibility, abundant fish life.
More monthly highlights
May
Peak visibility, diverse marine life including Garibaldi.
Jun
Excellent diving conditions, possibility of seeing dolphins and whales.
Jul
Warmest water temperatures, good for longer dives.
Aug
Continued good diving, possibility of seeing blue whales.
Sep
Visibility may start to decrease, but marine life is still abundant.
Oct
Autumn colors in the kelp, good for observing octopus.
Nov
Visibility decreases with winter storms, but marine life remains.
Dec
Coldest water, potential for rough seas, but unique winter marine life.
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Anacapa Island
Explore the dramatic sea caves and vibrant kelp forests surrounding Anacapa Island, a jewel of the C...
30m
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Santa Cruz Island
Dive into the abundant kelp forests and explore the underwater caves of Santa Cruz Island, the large...
40m
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Santa Rosa Island
Discover the unique underwater topography of Santa Rosa Island, where playful sea lions and colorful...
35m
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San Miguel Island
Venture to the westernmost Channel Island, San Miguel, for challenging yet rewarding dives in nutrie...
45m
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Santa Barbara Island
Experience spectacular diving around the smallest of the Channel Islands, Santa Barbara, renowned fo...
40m
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Catalina Island
Explore the vibrant kelp forests and dramatic underwater topography surrounding Catalina Island, a h...
40m
1 species
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