Italian Gardens

Entry and exit are from the dive boat. The site is relatively protected compared to others around Catalina, often providing calmer surface conditions for entry and exit.

Accessible only by boat, with several dive operators offering trips from the mainland. The boat ride is typically 1.5-2 hours, depending on departure location. Some Catalina-based operators also run regular trips to the site.

The varied habitat supports diverse marine life. The kelp forest hosts numerous fish species including bright orange garibaldi (California's state fish), sheephead, kelp bass, and schools of blacksmith. The rocky reef areas are home to various invertebrates including lobster, colorful nudibranchs, and sea stars. Divers may also encounter harbor seals, bat rays, and occasionally octopus hidden among the rocks.

The site features a series of underwater ridges and canyons running perpendicular to the shoreline, creating a terraced effect that inspired the garden name. Depths range from approximately 20 feet at the shallowest points to beyond 90 feet in the deeper canyons. A healthy kelp forest covers much of the area, while the deeper sections feature rocky reefs with small walls and overhangs. The varied topography creates numerous microhabitats supporting different marine communities.

As a boat-only site, parking is available at the harbors where dive boats depart on the mainland, typically Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point. Most offer paid parking with day rates. For divers staying on Catalina, local dive operations can arrange transportation from Avalon.

Facilities are limited to what's provided on dive boats. Most charter operations offer basic amenities including freshwater rinse, restrooms, and light refreshments.

Moderate during summer months and weekends. While popular, the site's relatively large area allows divers to spread out. Multiple dive groups can explore different sections simultaneously without significant congestion.

Currents can occasionally develop, particularly in the deeper areas and during tide changes. Surge can affect the shallower sections during periods of significant swell. The thick kelp forest, while beautiful, requires careful navigation to avoid entanglement. Proper buoyancy control is essential to prevent damage to the kelp ecosystem. Weather and sea conditions can change throughout the day, particularly in afternoon hours when winds typically increase.