Steep hike over slippery sand, then entry over shallow, slippery rocks. There is nice snorkeling available along the shoreline and a small kelp forest in the middle of the cove. The best diving is on the reef beyond the cove. The high spot breaks the surface at low tide. Follow this reef south and you will find overhangs, walls, lobsters, sponges, fish and nudibranchs. The east side of the reef has vertical walls as high as fifteen feet. The reef continues to eighty feet where it ends at the sand.

Located in the posh Palos Verdes area, grab your street map and follow along:  From the Pacific Coast Highway, head South on Palos Verdes Blvd for 1.4 miles.  Turn right on Palos Verdes Drive West.   In 3.8 miles, turn right on Paseo Lunado which becomes Paseo Del Mar.  You'll see the park on your right.

Christmas Tree Cove

I grew up diving Crystal Cove aka Christmas Tree cove. On my last dive in 2007, I introduced my kids to the site. No doubt the hike is an issue, so travel lite and take your time. I recommend beach entry off the south point.  Go south for lobster, West for fish, and there is a GREAT tide surge tube on the south side of the south point about 25-35 meters (about mid-reef) that at high tide is a fun spot for snorkels. Be safe and enjoy.

Dave from Las Vegas's Dive Log

@dave_from_las_vegas

1 dives