Point Loma Kelp Beds

Entry and exit are from the dive boat. Conditions can vary depending on ocean swells, winds, and currents. Boat captains select specific sites within the kelp beds based on daily conditions.

Accessible only by boat, with numerous dive operators in San Diego offering regular trips to various locations within the kelp beds. The boat ride is typically 30-45 minutes from Mission Bay.

The kelp forest ecosystem supports an incredible diversity of marine life. Common sightings include various rockfish species, kelp bass, sheephead, garibaldi, and lingcod. Bat rays and leopard sharks are frequently spotted on sandy patches, while octopuses and lobsters hide among rocky areas. Sea lions often visit the kelp beds to hunt, and lucky divers might encounter harbor seals or even dolphins. The kelp itself hosts numerous invertebrates including colorful nudibranchs and sea stars.

The underwater landscape consists primarily of a rocky reef system that supports the massive kelp forest. The giant kelp creates a multi-dimensional environment with dense canopies at the surface and more open areas below. Rocky reefs interspersed with sand channels provide varied habitat. Depths range from approximately 30 to 80 feet, with the kelp thriving in the 40-60 foot range. The topography varies across the extensive beds, with some areas featuring more dramatic rock formations and small walls.

Parking is available at marinas where dive boats depart, primarily at Mission Bay marinas including Seaforth Landing and Mission Bay Sport Center. Most offer paid parking with day rates.

Facilities are limited to what's provided on dive boats and at the marinas. Most charter operations offer basic amenities including restrooms and light refreshments.

Moderate throughout the year. Due to the extensive size of the kelp beds, divers can often be spread across different locations even when multiple boats are present. The most popular sites within the beds can get busier on weekends. For a less crowded experience, consider weekday diving or asking your charter to visit less frequented sections of the kelp forest.

Navigation can be challenging in the dense kelp, and it's easy to become disoriented. Boat propellers create hazards for divers surfacing outside designated areas, so carrying a surface marker buoy is essential. Surge can be significant, particularly during periods of large ocean swells. Entanglement in kelp is a risk for inexperienced divers or those with poor buoyancy control. Cold thermoclines often form, with temperature drops of 5-10 degrees possible even during summer months.