Posted by Walt on June 29, 2004 at 23:54:03:
In Reply to: Ventura County posted by Terry on June 25, 2004 at 10:24:56:
I like the Spectre and the Peace out of Ventura Harbor; can't go wrong with either boat. Both have weekday specials that are a great deal and offer some wonderful diving, often not very crowded. I prefer the Santa Cruz trips, as Anacapa is a little overdived. Between the two boats, I like the Spectre's individual gear compartments and its Captain Ted is one of the best around. The Peace offers Nitrox if you're certified for it.
Beach diving: Deer Creek (off highway 1 near Point Magu) - no facilities, but a great reef system in 30 to 40 feet water and an easy swim out. Watch for a sourtherly swell - if the surf's up, head down coast toward and beyond Point Dume. Going North, I haven't found much until I hit Santa Barbara and my favorite site there is Mesa Lane. Apart from the 250 or so steps to the neach, its a great dive of Mohawk Reef. Buy Dale Sheckler's Best Beach Dives of So Cal and check out the sites in Ventura, northern LA and SB counties.