Shaw's Cove, located in Laguna Beach is well known for its protection from large swells, amazing visibility and awesome Marine Life! All of these attributes make it highly suitable for the Beach Divers of all levels (beginners are welcome). Many Scuba classes are held here every weekend, Shaw's Cove is quite possibly the most popular dive site in Orange County. With Crescent Bay and Deadman's Reef right around the corner, it's a prime spot to dive! Garibaldi, Blacksmith, Sheephead, Octopus, Bat Rays, Horn Sharks, Leopard Sharks, Halibut, Blennies, Moray Eels and Nudibranchs are all commonly found here! Difficulty Level 5/10.
Interests: Garibaldi, Blacksmith, Sheephead, Octopus, Bat Rays, Horn Sharks, Leopard Sharks, Halibut, Blennies, Moray Eels and Nudibranchs.
Entry & Exits: Use prudent judgement when Beach Diving, perform an environmental assessment of the area before you gear up. Sandy entry, use the handrail when traversing the stairs up and down from the parking lot. Apply a surf entry appropriate to the current conditions and within the scope of your training.
Suggestions: Beginner dives will enter at the sandy beach, and surface swim out to the reef. A dive shop is located very close by for fills. The spot is also popular for night dives.
Best time to Dive: During small - flat South Swells and Slack Tide.
Visibility: 15ft - 30ft
Warnings: The Lifeguards can issue tickets for snorkel-less diving, solo diving or diving without a float / flag. It is illegal to approach the Sea Lions on the rocks, apply prudent judgement and maintain a safe distance.
Depth Recommendations: 15 - 40ft is where most of the points of interest are for this site. 50 ft is the maximum depth for this dive site. Apply prudent judgement and consideration of your experience level, scope of your training as well as current conditions when planning and executing your dives.
Safety: Use of a Float, Flag, Anchor and Descent line are required for Beach Diving. Cell Phone, Oxygen Kit and First Aid Kit are always recommended.
Parking: Parking is free but can fill up quickly and very early on weekends. Be mindful of the residents and don't block driveways, you WILL be towed.