Refugio is a very popular destination for beach-goers.  With over 100 campsites (mostly reserved from early on in the vacation season), the beach can be very crowded.  But once underwater you won't have to worry about those crowds!  Just a short distance off shore you'll find kelp beds and reef, and, for the more adventurous, a rocky point to explore to the West.

Found 19 miles West of Santa Barbara, take the Refugio exit of Highway 101, and follow the signs to the beach.

Refugio State Beach

My wife and I dove the East and West sides of the beach on 22 July 2012. I prefer the West side because of the amazing reef shelf approximately 70 yards off the rock point. We viewed numerous crab, fish and sea and plant life. We followed between 70-90 degree azimuths towards the center of the cove. An overall great dive for beginners.

Shooter's Dive Log

@shooter

1 dives