Top Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Carmel Highlands

Located in Point Lobos State Reserve, Whalers Cove is the most coveted dive location is this area. The highly restricted access of the Park creates an environment teaming with marine life. You must make reservations well in advance to enter, and must register with the gate before diving in. A complete set of rules and regulations, diving locations, and a reservation form may be found here. Drive South on Highway 1 from Carmel, past Monastery beach. You will see the entrance on your right.

Getting its name from an old story of a diver's once in a lifetime encounter with a grey whale this is an out of the way dive site that should only be visited during excellent conditions. On those days when it is not too stormy you can find dives that are untouched in comparison to the more popular Monterey and Carmel dives. From Carmel, or Monterey take the 1 south to Garrapata State Beach. Once in the park look for a grove of cypress trees on your left. Parking is under these trees.

This is a brilliant spot for kelp diving! Lots of fish and the brilliant light shining through the long green hydrophytes offers lots of phantastic scenes for photographers. But the highlight is definitely the seals (and sometimes puppies) often seen there - when you're lucky! But of course: don't touch or harrass them! The dive site is part of the Point Lobos National Reserve, park entrance fee approx. 10,- $ / vhcl. Parking lots are just next to the entrance; freshwater rinse is available as well as restrooms. Entrance is quite easy, just follow the boat slip.