Ship Rock

Ship Rock is a rocky reef and large underwater pinnacle off Rancho Palos Verdes, California, often covered in kelp that forms a kelp forest and defines the site's structure. The dive offers an exposed open-water experience with rocky outcrops typical of Palos Verdes dive spots. Access is by boat a few miles offshore. Divers typically descend to roughly 80 to 100 feet. Water temperatures range from the mid-50s °F in winter to the high 60s °F in late summer, and visibility is variable but often reaches several tens of feet in clear conditions. The exposed location can produce moderate currents or surge; hazards noted include kelp entanglement and surge or current. There is no overhead cover, so divers should carry surface signaling devices and be certified or experienced for dives to this depth.