La Jolla Shores

Entering and exiting the water at La Jolla Shores is typically easy due to the gentle sandy slope of the beach. The surf can sometimes be challenging, so it's recommended to check conditions beforehand. Timing the entry and exit with the waves can help avoid any difficulties, especially during high tide when the surf might be stronger. Be aware that the kick-out to the dive site is long.

The dive site is easily accessible from the beach. Divers can suit up at the parking lot or use the picnic areas to prepare their gear before heading to the beach for a shore entry. The entry point is directly from the sandy shore, making it straightforward for divers to get into the water.

La Jolla Shores is home to an abundant variety of marine life. Divers can encounter leopard sharks, kelp bass, sea turtles, tope sharks, and angle sharks. The area also features eel grass that provide habitat for various marine species. During certain times of the year, leopard sharks gather in large numbers near the shore, providing a unique diving experience.

The underwater topology of La Jolla Shores includes sandy bottoms, rocky reefs, and the dramatic La Jolla Submarine Canyon. The canyon's edge begins at about 30 feet and drops off sharply, providing an exciting dive site with walls and ledges teeming with marine life. The sandy flats near the shore are perfect for beginner divers and scuba classes, while the deeper canyon walls attract more experienced divers.

Parking at La Jolla Shores is convenient, with a large parking lot available near the beach. Additionally, there are street parking options nearby. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak times, to secure a good spot close to the dive site.

La Jolla Shores offers a range of facilities to enhance the diving experience. There are public restrooms, showers, and picnic areas available for use. Nearby, divers can find various restaurants and cafes, such as the Marine Room restaurant, which is a short walk from the dive site.

Very high, particularly on weekends and during summer months. The beach is popular with swimmers, surfers, and kayakers in addition to divers. The sandy areas close to shore are often filled with dive classes. For a less crowded experience, arrive early in the morning on weekdays or dive during the off-season (fall and winter).

Be extremely cautious of the submarine canyon that begins offshore – it drops rapidly to depths well beyond recreational limits. Strong and unpredictable currents can develop, especially along the canyon edges. When on the surface, be vigilant for kayak and boat traffic, which is particularly heavy during summer months. Stingrays are common in the sandy shallows; shuffle your feet when walking to avoid painful stings. During periods of high surf, powerful rip currents can form that may quickly pull divers offshore.