One of the most unique reefs along the Palos Verdes Peninsula is the Underwater Arch at Neptune Cove. As with most P.V. sites, the hike to and from the shore is steep and the surface swim is long, but where else are you going to find a bedroom sized grotto along the coast?

Inside the arch are a few small boulders. Look on the rocks and walls for Trapania velox, uncommon in the area. Tiny yellowfin fringeheads poke their heads out from the rocks inside and outside the arch. The top of the arch is a typical kelp forest with the usual critters including Garibaldis and Blacksmiths.

From the ocean side of Palos Verdes Drive South, turn right onto Calle Entradero. At the first curve is the public parking lot. Take the trail at the south end of the lot and check out conditions. Pay no attention to the signs on the fence that read "Don't even think of climbing over". :)

33° 45.076N 118° 25.070W