Summer diving in Monterey Bay?

[kumimonster]

Are you moving here or just visiting?
You don't need to hire an instructor or a guide unless you really want one. If you haven't been in the water for a while, then a refresher might be prudent.
If you're actually going to be living here then I would suggest joining a club. There are many shops that have clubs. Or you could join a club that isn't affiliated with a commercial shop. In the east bay there's aquatutus, for example, which is worth checking out. There you'll meet more divers to buddy up with and who can share info and experience about the local dive sites.

 

[fobturbo]

If you can get the reservations, I would also recommend Pt. Lobos as well. For weekends, you almost need to get reservations a month out, but weekays will be easier. Parking does get full quickly in Whaler's cove, so if you do get reservations, get there just before the park opens. Guide would be highly recommended. Though you might be able to bribe someone if you can get additional reservations on a weekend.