While you're experimenting with your new camera rig, I'd recommend several easy shore dives at La Jolla Shores. Not too many WA opportunities, but lots of macro-life if you know where to look.
Among advanced dive sites, I suggest checking out the Hogan wreck (very photogenic wolf eels) and Scripps Canyon (nudibranchs, swell sharks, etc.). There's a ton of stuff to see in the Point Loma Kelp beds, too.
For more ideas, check out
Divebums.com Photos of the Week. Here's a link to the
latest post. Take note of
where the critter photos were taken. While you're at it, join the email list-serv on
this page. You'll get daily reports of underwater visibility and surf conditions submitted by local divers.
Bill Powers runs a popular Meetup.com diving group called
Power Scuba. Bill's the tall guy who looks like the actor
Tim Stack. Divers of all skill levels participate. It's free to join.
The
Dive Animals dive club plans a couple of low-cost dive trips to Mexico (La Bufadora) and Two Harbors (Catalina). The club also has a couple of small boats that go out to local dive sites for a nominal fee. I believe they use a web-based scheduling system to arrange the logistics. This really is the most economical and convenient option for doing local boat dives. On the other hand, if you have your own boat, you won't have any problem making friends.
Until fairly recently, the Marissa was arguably the best local dive boat op. However, Captains Carl and Anita are no longer affiliated with the op. I haven't done any business with the new crew yet. The Lois Ann is an excellent option. Waterhorse Charters (Humboldt) has a new boat and friendly staff. If given a choice, I'd steer clear of
Dive Connections, Inc. That particular dive op has made the headlines in a number of diving accidents and apparently is embroiled in some legal issues. Bill Moss's Hydrodiver is great if you can get a few other people to share the charter. The boat is relatively slow, but Bill is very friendly and feeds you well. For a real treat, do an overnight trip on the Horizon to San Clemente Island. Every trip I've done with them has been a lot of fun. Very professionally run operation. All of these operators can be found on the
California Dive Boats page.
Whew! That should keep you busy for a few years!
One last thought: Bring your drysuit. You'll need it for winter diving around here.
Welcome to San Diego!
