Easy dives for new diver with experienced buddy

[boulderjohn]

BoulderJohn's description is accurate. One other thing about the faster drift dives is that you may not be able to stop and enjoy everything. Sometimes, the current is just too strong to do so. I like to poke around and take a lot of time in relatively small areas, so some of the dives I have experienced in Cozumel have a bit frustrating from that point of view.

If you look carefully, you can usually find some dead coral and hook it with a single finger, and that should be enough to stop you. (That is the "problem" with Barracuda Reef--it is so healthy it is hard to find someplace to hold on.) You can also streamline your body so that you don't look so much like a sail. In some places you can duck into recesses in the coral.

 

[fnfalman]

SoCal is too cold until I go dry! Not great for a newbie. Though I have to say diving with sea lions last year was cool.

There are thousands upon thousands of newbies diving in SoCal while wearing wetsuit in all times and seasons throughout the year.

 

[fnfalman]

Definitely bring your gear! It's totally worth it....and there are lots of local, active divers who would be more than happy to take you out. Pop into the socal subforum and let us know when you'll be down here!

That's for darn sure!!! SoCal divers are the most friendly bunch of bubble blowers.

Come down to the SoCal forum and post your trip dates. One of us should be able to accompany you for a dive or ten. We know all the sweet spots, all the good boats and places to rent gears if you decide not to bring your own gears along.

 

[dmendelson]

I will give SoCal another chance and touchbase with your group when I am in that part of the world next.