Casino Point, Avalon, Catalina Island

Casino Point Dive Park is a protected marine reserve and sheltered shore-entry site next to Avalon’s Casino building, marked by a line of buoys that excludes boat traffic. The park features rocky reefs, pinnacles and a dense giant kelp forest; its abundant, large fish are a principal attraction, with frequent sightings of Garibaldi and kelp bass. Entry is via concrete stairs with handrails for easy shore access, and the park ranges from a few feet at the shoreline to about 90–100 feet at the outer edges. Visibility is often very good, commonly 80–100+ feet in summer, and water temperatures range roughly 55–59 °F in winter to 70–74 °F in late summer and fall. A mild westerly current is common, allowing drift-style dives through the kelp canopy; the bay is generally calm, there are no overhead environments, and shore-side amenities and air fills are nearby. Several intentionally sunken boats and artificial reefs rest in deeper sand patches, providing additional structure that attracts fish and enhances the diving experience.