AVALON SCUBA FIELD GUIDE
Kelp Forest Cathedral: Two Guided Dives at Casino Point, Avalon
Two guided tank dives through Catalina’s famed Casino Point Underwater Park for certified divers—this guide lays out what you’ll see, what’s included, and who should go.
Kelp Forest Cathedral: Two Guided Dives at Casino Point, Avalon.
Adventure brief
Kelp Forest Cathedral: Two Guided Dives at Casino Point, Avalon
Catalina Island’s Casino Point Underwater Park, on the shore of Avalon, is a world-class diving venue where dense kelp forests and protected reef habitat host an array of marine life; this outing delivers two guided dives through that underwater landscape led by Catalina Scuba’s instructor staff.
Experience the thrill of exploring Avalon’s vibrant underwater world with a Two Tank Guided Scuba Dive designed specifically for certified divers. Catalina Scuba offers an unforgettable adventure tailored to those who have already obtained their certification and are eager to discover the depths around Catalina Island. During this guided dive, you'll encounter pristine reefs, fascinating marine life, and dramatic canyon formations, all led by experienced local instructors who know the best underwater spots. Whether you're interested in exploring vibrant kelp forests or discovering wreck sites teeming with history, this dive provides a perfect blend of adventure and discovery. The clear waters, rich biodiversity, and the chance to see species like California sea lions and colorful Garibaldi fish make this experience a highlight for any certified diver. Expect a safe, well-organized trip with all necessary gear provided, so you can focus on enjoying every moment underwater. The calm, inviting waters of Avalon mean this dive is suitable for divers of moderate experience levels looking to improve their skills or simply enjoy some of the best diving Southern California has to offer. An underwater adventure with Catalina Scuba offers not just a dive, but an opportunity to connect with oceanic beauty in one of California’s most scenic locations—perfect for creating lasting memories and inspiring a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems.
Route Schematic
Itinerary schematic
A compact sequence focused on shore-based access to Casino Point and two guided dives in the marine reserve.
Arrival at Avalon / Casino Point
Meet at Avalon and proceed to Casino Point, the protected underwater park where daily guided dives launch.
First Guided Dive — Kelp Forest
A guided 50-minute dive through the kelp forest to observe resident fish and invertebrates.
Surface Interval and Second Dive
A surface interval followed by a second guided 50-minute dive, continuing exploration of reef features and possible marine mammal or larger-fish sightings.
Debrief and Exit
Brief debrief with the instructor, gear return or rental handling, and return to shore in Avalon.
This trip is for certified divers only; divers must observe reserve rules and operator guidance. Operator limits groups to six divers; a $30 private fee applies per dive if you are the only person on the schedule.
What the day feels like
What the two-tank day feels like
You join an instructor-led small group for two guided dives at Casino Point: expect organized briefings, guided underwater navigation through kelp and reef, and focused wildlife viewing during two 50-minute tank dives supplied by Catalina Scuba.
THE KELP
Ranked kelp forests in a compact park
Catalina’s giant kelp forests are internationally celebrated and form the backbone of every dive at Casino Point, where divers move through dense blades and holdfasts that shelter an abundance of life.
THE WILDLIFE
Close encounters with iconic California species
Guided dives routinely showcase Giant Black Sea Bass, Garibaldi (the state fish), kelp bass, sheephead, rays, eels and nudibranchs, with the occasional playful sea lion, harbor seal, leopard shark or horn shark.
THE SETTING
A protected marine reserve minutes from Avalon
Casino Point is a designated Marine Reserve in Avalon — no fishing or removal of marine life — and is regularly dived by local operators, making it accessible from the town and ideal for repeatable, wildlife-focused dives.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this dive suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Regulators (Atomic & Scuba Pro) with dive computers are included with the dives; the operator also provides or arranges other gear upon request.
If you need gear, the operator can supply it—ask when booking so rentals and sizing can be arranged in advance.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are the dives?
The tour includes two 50-minute tank dives.
What is the price?
The rate is $169 per person for ages 12 and up.
What is the minimum age to join?
Participants must be at least 12 years old.
Is gear included?
Regulators and dive computers (Atomic & Scuba Pro) are included; additional gear is available on request.
How many people can join a dive?
You can book up to six people for a dive; if you arrive and are the only person on the schedule, a $30 private fee per dive will be charged.
Are night dives available?
Night dives are offered on request—ask the operator when booking to arrange them.
What marine life might I see?
Divers commonly see Giant Black Sea Bass, Garibaldi, kelp bass, sheephead, rays, eels, various nudibranchs and the occasional sea lion, harbor seal or shark species.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:06:44.627Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.