Hi... I've finally decided to get my advanced certification (padi) after diving (OW) recreationally sporadically for the last 20+ years. I live in San Jose. I've already finished the padi online part, and now that I'm done with the vax I will do the in-person/water stuff. I only own my mask, snorkle, booties, fins, gloves; so everything else will have to be rented, including a warmer wetsuit. I'm on my own (because my spouse does not do scuba) and I don't have friends who do it either.
We will be going to Breakwater Cove Marina. I've never lugged my own stuff, as I also did scuba charters in vacation spots where they do everything for you. I'm a newb when it comes to logistics.
Need tips:
- what to pack
- where to stay
- how's the vis, temps, kelp, sealife in July?
You will make friends. If my bitchy mouth can make friends then anyone can. Almost anyone.
You will make more friends than you know what to do with. Pretty soon you will hate all your scuba friends because that's all they talk about and you will be keeping up with the scuba-Jones trying to buy the newest and fanciest gear and eventually go in debt because of it!
1. Pack liquids and snacks. Fruit, protein, whatever. You will want to stay hydrated. Very hydrated. Pack a towel, some warm clothes and some clothes that will keep you cool in case the day gets sunny. If it's windy for any reason, a boat coat or a windbreaker to keep the chill off between dives if you leave your wetsuit on. (it should dry if the weather is sunny). A hat is nice. Sunscreen is nice - necessary if you don't want to burn. I like to pack a folding chair that is strong enough to hold me while wearing full wet gear. I also pack a work table (husky portable jobsite workbench). This is not necessary. If you start diving more often locally, it'll be something to look into for convenience.
Is your car one of those bloop-bloop electronic ones? Bring a valet key so the electronics don't go bloop-fizzle. You might want to invest in a Hitch Safe for your car. Some people use those hidey magnet things. I think they're kind of *meh*. If you don't have one, your instructor should be able to hook you up and lock your keys in their car or something like that to start.
The parking machine takes credit cards and cash.
2. I like the Lone Oak. It's pretty nice for multiple days. There's a scuba cleaning station and racks to hold your heavy gear to dry. Each room has two large hooks available outside the door to hang personal gear. (Bring your own heavy duty scuba hangers). The rooms have been upgraded over the years - the price as well. I would still stay here for 2+ days of diving. For just one, I'll drive down and back the same day.
If you're coming from San Jose (I drive from Palo Alto), you can always just drive down in the morning. I like to leave around 0430 or so. That gets me to the parking lot around 0600. Maybe a little after. The divers that are there are usually instructors setting up spots for their classes (busy weekends!) or people getting an early dive in before the crowds that might show up divers and non-divers alike. I enjoy the quiet and watching the sun come up. Plus, leaving that early ensures me that traffic won't be a problem. Also, parking is not an issue. Almost ALL the spots are available so you can park super close near the grass and stairs and octopus bike rack, or you can park along the wall close to the stairs.
3. Conditions.
This STICKIED thread.
There's also a facebook group or two or three:
Monterery Bay Scuba Divers Open and
Monterey County Dive Reports and
Monterey Subtidal Species Identification Forum.
Lots and lots of photos (and trouble makers too within!)