Catalina Island provides an ideal location for visitors to explore crystal clear waters and discover an active marine life. This area is one of the most popular snorkeling and diving destinations in California. The waters off of the island feature underwater cliffs, caves, kelp forests and a variety of shipwrecks for snorkelers to explore. There are several snorkeling sites that can be reached by foot and others that are only accessible by boat.
Dive Parks
On the southeast side of Avalon harbor, snorkelers will find the Casino Dive Park and Lover's Cove. These two snorkeling sites are established in protected waters. Here snorkelers can come face-to-face with a variety of marine life including bright orange Garibaldis, mottled grey calico bass and reddish-orange sheephead. In the water are kelp forests for exploring and at Casino Dive Park, there are four sunken ships to heighten your explorations.
Harbor
Midway between Two Harbors and Avalon is the snorkeling site Goat Harbor. This site can be reached by boat. The U-shaped harbor features a sheltered cove and sandy beach. Reefs begin at the shoreline on either side of the harbor and extend to a depth of 60 feet. The water features large boulders and rockfish, blacksmith, ray, angel shark, kelp bass and Garibaldi.
Beach
The U-shaped harbor that creates Descanso Bay is an excellent location to snorkel when at Catalina Island. The water is calm and crystal clear. You can rent snorkeling gear from the nearby Descano Beach Ocean Sports. This area can be accessed by foot and the beach area features restrooms, showers, changing rooms, chair rentals and a restaurant.
Half-Day Tour
Consider heading out with Catalina Ocean Rafting for an adventure snorkeling in the waters off the coast of Catalina Island. This company provides you with snorkeling gear, instruction and experienced guides. No snorkeling experience is necessary to participate on these trips. Catalina Ocean Rafting offers these half day excursions in addition to 1 ¼-hour long trips. While out on the trips, you'll be able to stop at multiple sites to explore.
Quick Snorkeling Tours
If you are looking for a shorter guided tour, head out on the waters off of Catalina Island with Snorkeling Catalina. This company has one- and two-hour snorkeling trips. You will visit Lover's Cove and several other dive spots when out on the trip. The guides will take you along the coastline and allow you to explore hidden coves and underwater gardens. Marks, fins, snorkels, wetsuits, refreshments and instructions are provided by the guides. No experience is required.
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