Yellow Banks

Entry and exit are from the dive boat. The site can experience variable conditions, and the boat captain will determine if anchoring or live-boat diving is appropriate based on current sea state.

Accessible only by boat, with various charter operations running regular trips from mainland ports. The boat ride is approximately 2-3 hours from mainland harbors.

Yellow Banks supports rich marine biodiversity. The extensive kelp forests harbor numerous fish species including calico bass, sheephead, garibaldi, and various rockfish. Invertebrate life is abundant, with colorful nudibranchs, sea stars, anemones, and urchins covering rocky surfaces. Larger visitors include harbor seals, sea lions, and occasionally bat rays. During certain seasons, you might encounter schools of sardines or mackerel being hunted by sea lions.

The underwater landscape features dramatic rock formations, underwater pinnacles, and extensive kelp forests. Rocky reefs are interspersed with sand channels, providing habitat diversity. The site's depth profile ranges from approximately 30 feet at the shallowest points to 80+ feet along the outer edges of the reef. The area covers a large geographic range, allowing for multiple dives in different sections with varying characteristics.

Parking is available at harbors where dive boats depart, primarily Ventura and Santa Barbara harbors. Most offer paid day or hourly parking with varying rates.

Facilities are limited to what's provided on the dive boats. Most charter operations offer basic amenities including freshwater rinse, restrooms, and food service. There are no facilities at the dive site itself, which is located along the uninhabited coastline of Santa Cruz Island.

Low to moderate. The remote location and boat-only access naturally limit the number of divers. Even on days when multiple dive boats visit the area, the extensive nature of the site allows groups to spread out. The site is large enough to accommodate several dive boats without feeling crowded.

Weather conditions can change rapidly around Santa Cruz Island. Strong currents can develop, particularly during tide changes. The site's exposure to open ocean means surge can be significant even when surface conditions appear calm. Water temperatures typically range from 55-65°F depending on season, requiring adequate thermal protection. The remote location means emergency medical facilities are hours away; conservative diving practices are strongly advised. As part of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, special protections apply.