Casino Point Dive Park
Dive into a vibrant underwater world at Casino Point, Catalina Island's premier shore dive park, known for kelp forests and abundant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better visibility
Casino Point Dive Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into a vibrant underwater world at Casino Point, Catalina Island's premier shore dive park, known for kelp forests and abundant marine life.
"A beautiful and easy dive that will leave you speechless every time."
🤿 Wetsuit is a Must
Water temps can be around 50°F (10°C) in April, so a full-length wetsuit is highly recommended for comfort .
Book Dive Gear Ahead
Reserve your dive gear and guided tours in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure availability .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Kelp Forests
Underwater
Explore lush, swaying kelp forests teeming with marine life. A truly immersive underwater experience.
Abundant Marine Life
Underwater
Encounter colorful fish like Garibaldi, Calico Bass, and even Giant Sea Bass. Keep an eye out for rays and lobsters too!
Easy Shore Entry
Stairs leading into the water
Convenient stairs provide a straightforward entry and exit, making it accessible for divers and snorkelers of all levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive In: Gear Up for Casino Point
Island Access & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤿 Wetsuit is a Must
Water temps can be around 50°F (10°C) in April, so a full-length wetsuit is highly recommended for comfort.
Book Dive Gear Ahead
Reserve your dive gear and guided tours in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure availability.
Ferry Travel Tips
Plan your ferry schedule to Catalina Island to maximize your dive time. Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Respect the MPA
Casino Point is a Marine Protected Area. Remember no fishing or collecting marine life is allowed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤿 Wetsuit is a Must
Water temps can be around 50°F (10°C) in April, so a full-length wetsuit is highly recommended for comfort.
Book Dive Gear Ahead
Reserve your dive gear and guided tours in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure availability.
Ferry Travel Tips
Plan your ferry schedule to Catalina Island to maximize your dive time. Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Respect the MPA
Casino Point is a Marine Protected Area. Remember no fishing or collecting marine life is allowed.
Gear Up for Snorkeling
Even if you forget your gear, rentals are available nearby for a spontaneous underwater adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Casino Point Dive Park for its stunning kelp forests and abundant, diverse marine life, making it a top California shore diving and snorkeling spot. The easy access and clear waters are frequently praised, though some note crowded conditions and a less-than-ideal smell near the entry points during peak times.
"If you wanted to see what a kelp forest dive was like, this is the place.
Catalina is an easy and beautiful dive that will leave you speechless every time.
Mira a 60 minute ferry ride from Long Beach or Dana point to Avalon and once you are there, you can stroll on a light mile walk to the park and meet your dive center of choice by the park to get your briefing, gear and guided dive.
Because of the location, the dives are usually great viz and no complaints on the surge or current department so it’s great for all
Levels. Book your diving and arrangements ahead of time and doesn’t forget to tip your dive professionals!"
Rocio Gajon Bunker
"Casino Point Dive Park, also called the Avalon Underwater Park, is one of the most popular shore diving destinations in California. It's located on Catalina Island, next to the world-famous Catalina Casino Building.
The park was designed specifically for underwater exploration and offers a variety of features that make it a great place for divers and snorkelers of all levels. Here are some of the things that make Casino Point Dive Park special:
Easy access: The park has a convenient set of stairs that drop straight into the water, making it easy to get in and out.
Clear water: The water at Casino Point is typically very clear, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. This makes it a great place to see all the amazing marine life that lives in the area.
Abundant sea life: The park is home to a wide variety of fish, invertebrates, and other marine life. Some of the animals you might see include garibaldi, black sea bass, sea lions, moray eels, octopus, and kelp forests.
Protected area: The park is a designated underwater reserve, which means that fishing and collecting marine life are not allowed. This helps to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure that there will be plenty of sea life to see for future visitors
If you're looking for a great place to go scuba diving or snorkeling in California, Casino Point Dive Park is a great option."
Ralph Conklin
"We've mostly dove from boats on the west side of Catalina so it's tricky to compare Casino Point to the less populated dive sites around the island. We appreciated the healthy kelp forest, the diversity of species (including a group of 5 giant sea bass), the great vis, and the ease of making a day trip to the island for a two tank dive trip. Our greatest issues with this dive site is the urine smell everywhere, the limited space to setup / stash one's gear, and the crowded entry / exit stairway. Overall, we had a beautiful day, I'd just prefer to return on a less crowded day (which is likely not very common during the summer)."
Kari Liane Granger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casino Point Dive Park is located on Catalina Island. You'll need to take a ferry from Long Beach or Dana Point to Avalon. From the ferry terminal in Avalon, it's about a mile walk to the dive park.
The main ferry services to Catalina Island are Catalina Express, which operates from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. It's advisable to check their schedules and book tickets in advance, especially for weekend trips.
Yes, it's a pleasant mile-long walk from the Avalon ferry terminal to Casino Point Dive Park. You can also rent a golf cart for a more scenic and quicker journey.
Avalon is very walkable. For longer distances or a fun experience, golf carts are available for rent, offering a unique way to explore the island.
Parking is available at the ferry terminals, but it can be limited and costly. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to the ferry if possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee for Casino Point Dive Park itself. However, you will need to pay for your ferry to Catalina Island and any gear rentals or guided tours you wish to purchase.
The dive park is accessible year-round, and there are no specific operating hours for entry. However, ferry schedules and dive shop hours will dictate your available time for diving and snorkeling.
Yes, there are dive shops located near Casino Point Dive Park where you can rent scuba gear, snorkeling equipment, and wetsuits. It's recommended to book in advance.
For scuba diving, you'll need to be certified by a recognized agency. For snorkeling, there are no age restrictions, but children should be supervised by an adult. Wetsuits are recommended for all ages due to water temperature.
Absolutely! Many local dive operators offer guided dives and snorkel tours, which are highly recommended for first-time visitors or those wanting to learn more about the marine life.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Casino Point is renowned for its abundant sea life, including Garibaldi (California's state marine fish), Calico Bass, Opaleye, Sheephead, Moray Eels, Octopus, and occasionally Giant Sea Bass. You might also spot Bat Rays and California Spiny Lobsters.
Visibility at Casino Point is typically excellent, often exceeding 100 feet, making it ideal for underwater photography and exploration. However, it can vary depending on recent weather conditions.
Yes, Casino Point is considered a great spot for all levels. The easy entry, generally calm conditions, and clear water make it very beginner-friendly.
Water temperatures can vary seasonally. In April, it can be around 50°F (10°C), making a full-length wetsuit essential. In warmer months, it might be slightly higher but still cool enough to warrant a wetsuit for extended stays.
While there aren't extensive facilities directly at the park, you'll find restrooms and showers nearby. Most dive shops also offer changing areas and rinse tanks for your gear.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Avalon offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. You can find places to grab a bite before or after your dive.
Picnicking is generally allowed in the park areas. It's a good idea to pack snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring the island.
Seafood is a popular choice, given the island's location. You'll also find classic American fare and casual eateries catering to tourists.
Many restaurants in Avalon offer beautiful ocean views, providing a lovely backdrop to your meal after a day of diving.
Dining prices in Avalon can vary. You can find budget-friendly options like cafes and delis, as well as more upscale dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The kelp forests and rocky reefs are prime locations for underwater photography. The clear water and diverse marine life provide endless opportunities for stunning shots.
For underwater photography, a good quality underwater camera or a waterproof action camera is recommended. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the kelp forests and marine life.
The Catalina Casino building itself is a picturesque landmark. The archway near the Casino is also a popular spot for aesthetic photos.
Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides the best natural light for both underwater and above-water photography. The clear water helps with light penetration for underwater shots.
Always maintain a respectful distance from marine life. Avoid using flash directly on sensitive creatures and be mindful of your buoyancy to prevent damaging the environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting snorkel gear in Avalon, as it's readily available and can be more comfortable for kids than bringing their own. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as dining options are a short walk away in Avalon. The ferry ride itself is often an exciting part of the adventure for children. Remember to supervise children closely in and around the water, and ensure they wear appropriate wetsuits to stay warm and comfortable during their exploration.
🤿 Certified Divers
The clear visibility and minimal current and surge contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable dive, suitable for all skill levels.It's highly recommended to book your dive gear and any guided dives in advance, especially if you're planning a weekend trip. This ensures you have everything you need and can make the most of your time. Consider the water temperature; a full-length wetsuit is essential, even in warmer months, as the Pacific can be quite cool.
📸 Underwater Photographers
With typically excellent visibility, your photos will be sharp and clear, capturing the beauty of the underwater world.Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the kelp and the schooling fish. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the iconic Garibaldi and the majestic Giant Sea Bass.
Remember to be mindful of your buoyancy to avoid damaging the delicate ecosystem while you're getting that perfect shot. The clear water and accessible entry make it easy to spend hours capturing the magic beneath the waves.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater World
+1 The clear waters, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet, allow for incredible views and photographic opportunities.The accessibility of Casino Point is a major draw. Unlike many dive sites that require boat access, this park offers a convenient shore entry via a set of stairs directly into the water.
Beyond the fish, keep an eye out for other fascinating creatures like octopus, moray eels, bat rays, and California Spiny Lobsters.
+1 The park's protected status ensures that this underwater paradise remains pristine for generations to come. Remember to always practice responsible diving and snorkeling by maintaining a safe distance from wildlife and avoiding any disturbance to the delicate ecosystem.Planning Your Catalina Island Day Trip
Upon reaching Avalon, you have several options for getting to the dive park. The most common is a pleasant mile-long walk along the waterfront, allowing you to soak in the island's atmosphere. For those seeking a quicker or more novel approach, golf cart rentals are readily available and offer a fun way to navigate the town.
This flexibility ensures you can tailor your island experience to your preferences.While at Casino Point, remember that it's a Marine Protected Area, meaning no fishing or collecting is allowed. This conservation effort is key to the park's rich biodiversity. After your dive or snorkel, explore Avalon's shops, enjoy a meal at one of its many restaurants, or simply relax on the beach. The island offers a complete getaway experience, making Casino Point Dive Park a perfect centerpiece for a memorable day trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit