Santa Barbara Island

100 Foot Kelp - Sea Lion Rookery - Underwater Arch

The smallest of the Channel Islands but large in terms of exciting dives.   A very large sea lion rookery is a key highlight here. Sea Lions know a good thing when they see it.  Underwater photographers love diving here.

Like all southern California dives, weather dependent but especially so because of the smaller land mass of the island.  Travel is via boat only.  Departure from Ventura Harbor means an overnight travel than from San Pedro or Long Beach, but even closer from Catalina Island.  Overnight travel, longer boat travel, and possibly stronger currents means that you need to be an experienced cold water diver.  This location is a good training location for advanced open water or specialty divers.  Guided dives are available from Malibu Divers; you need to register in advance.