The most picturesque dive site in the Carmel area, Monastery Beach offers spectacular diving in the rocky, kelp-packed coastline.  Do not attempt this dive unless you are advanced, and are comfortable in heavy surf.

Head South on Highway 1 out of Carmel.  Park at the Southern end of the first roadside beach.

Monastery Beach South

I read a lot about the harsh conditions at this site, but my son and I did an evening and early morning dive in calm seas and it was spectacular.  We are avid freedivers and had no problem with entering or exiting, but could see how it could be rough with SCUBA because of the steep entry.  Lots of great fish, kelp beds, plants and rock outcroppings.  Great 360 degree views from the water.  Vis 40+.  Felt like we were in Hawaii, except water was 53 deg.

Buster's Dive Log

@buster

1 dives