Night Scuba Dive with Catalina Scuba in Avalon - Los Angeles

Night Scuba Dive with Catalina Scuba in Avalon

Los Angeleschallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

1.5–2 hours

Fitness Level

Divers should be in good physical condition with recent diving experience

Overview

Venture beneath the waves after dark with Catalina Scuba’s guided night dive on Catalina Island. Witness the ocean’s nocturnal life illuminate in a way you’ve never experienced before, all with expert guidance and pristine visibility. Discover the secrets lurking in the reef’s shadows—an unforgettable adventure for certified divers seeking something different.

Details

Catalina Island, just a short boat ride off the Southern California coast, offers a favorite playground for divers seeking adventure beyond the usual daytime dives. Among its many treasures, Catalina Scuba’s Guided Night Scuba Dive stands out as an immersive experience that transforms the underwater landscape once the sun dips below the horizon. Limited to certified divers, this trip plunges you into a world alive with glowing marine life, flickering beams revealing the nocturnal behaviors of fish, octopus, and strange invertebrates. As you descend into the twilight shadows, you’ll witness a bustling, little-known ecosystem that shifts dramatically after dark. The island’s kelp forests and rocky reefs host vibrant communities that come alive when most visitors are heading back to the shore. This guided tour, led by experienced local instructors, ensures safety while unlocking the mysteries hiding beneath the surface. Not only does Catalina’s underwater terrain—characterized by rugged reefs and clear water—offer superb visibility, but the island’s protected status means thriving marine populations that make each night dive a different adventure. The glow of your dive light slices through the darkness, illuminating everything from darting fish to the elusive cephalopods that shy away during daylight hours. It's an exceptional way for certified divers to extend their understanding of ocean life while experiencing a rare, otherworldly setting. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a dedicated diver, these night dives add a thrilling, memorable layer to your Catalina visit. The experience is perfect for those longing to see the ocean from a fresh perspective and to witness the magic that wakes when the world sleeps.

Adventure Tips

Bring a powerful dive light

A strong, reliable light enhances visibility and highlights marine creatures in the dark.

Check marine life activity forecasts

Inquire about recent sightings to maximize your chances of witnessing nocturnal species.

Plan for a calm sea night

Opt for nights with minimal wave activity for better visibility and comfort.

Ensure proper surface support gear

Carry a signaling device or surface marker for safety during entry and exit.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Limestone Canyon nearby
  • Secret coves accessible by kayak

Wildlife

  • Giant black sea bass
  • Moray eels

History

Catalina Island has a rich history of maritime activity, with stories of shipwrecks and lighthouse keepers adding to its allure.

Conservation

Catalina Scuba emphasizes eco-friendly practices to protect the island’s marine ecosystems for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

mid-dive when marine activity peaks
just after sunset for diffuse lighting

Best Viewpoints

  • at the reef crevices
  • above the kelp forest

What to Photograph

luminescent coral, silhouetted fish, and the kelp swaying in the current

Recommended Gear

Dive light

Essential

A high-quality, waterproof flashlight is crucial to see the underwater nightlife clearly.

Wetsuit suitable for water temperature

Essential

A well-fitting wetsuit keeps you warm in cooler night waters.

spring|fall|winter specific

Surface signaling device

Essential

Helps you signal your position to surface support or boat crew.

Underwater camera or action cam

Capture the otherworldly scenes of the night reef landscape.

Book Now