NJ diver in Northern Cal. Need advice

[MB104]

I am a NJ diver and will be going to San Francisco in May 2005. I am not there specifically to dive, but was told I could do a few dives while visiting family. Is there any good diving right around SF proper? What kind of diving can I expect? How far do I have to travel to get in some good wrecks? What kind of conditions should I expect? This will be my first CA dive and have no idea what to expect.

 

[Brian Gilpin]

Dont expect any good diving too much less than two hours from SF. IMO Monterey is far and away your best bet. Norcal is not known for a lot of wreck diving but rather the beauty of our kelp forests. Foraging through the last two months or so posts in this forum will give you all the info you need. Remind us again in April and I think you will find buddies to serve as guides. Whatever you do dont mention chain saws or ice in this forum or you may be asked to leave.

 

[MontereyCADiver]

Hi MB,

Good questions! It's been my experience that there's not much diving in the SF Bay; however, like Brian said, if you're able to make the trip to Monterey (2 hours south +/-), you'll be in for an unforgetable experience.

There are many dive locations off the Monterey Peninsula. Breakwater (San Carlos Beach), Monterey; MacAbee Beach, Monterey; Lovers Cove, Pacific Grove; Coral Street, Pacific Grove; Pt. Lobos; Monastery Beach, Carmel -- just to name a few.

Also, like Brian mentioned, you won't find much in the way of wrecks, but you will have some great dives. Water temperatures range from the upper-40's to the mid-50's, and since you're from the NJ area, I'm sure you're acclimated to colder waters.

For under $12, I encourage you to consider the following book:
Diving & Snorkeling Monterey Peninsula & Northern California; by Steve Rosenberg. It offers a good glimpse to the area, and includes helpful tips, and 'what to expects' from the area. Additionally, if you're able to make it down to Monterey, place a post on here looking for a buddy, and, contact local dive shop(s).
1) Monterey Bay Dive Center: http://www.montereyscubadiving.com/
2) Manta Ray Dive Center: http://www.mantaraydive.com/
Both shops have excellent reputations, knowledgeable staff, good inventory, air, etc. AND, both shops are VERY close to the San Carlos Beach, Monterey -- a few hundred feet, literally.

Anyway, I hope this is a good start. If you have more questions, please feel free to send a PM.

Cheers, Jeff

 

[MontereyCADiver]

One more thing, since you'll be in the area -- be sure to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. www.mbayaq.org

You'll love it, I promise!

 

[MB104]

Thanks everybody for this great information. I am looking forward to my trip to the left coast!