The craggy cliffs and lush kelp beds in Monterey Bay are home to brilliant orange Garibaldi (the state fish of California), rockfish , sea lions and otters, Right off the Monterey Aquarium the marine life is protected under sanctuary regulations and divers are protected from extreme weather conditions, Some operators also head to the state reserve park of Point Lobos, which charges a $10 entrance fee, To get to the Beach Hopper /I boat from downtown San Francisco, head south on Highway 280 to 101 South, Follow the signs for 156 West; this route turns into Highway 1 South to Monterey, Take the Pacific Grove Del Monte Avenue exit, stay right and make a right turn to Fisherman's Wharf. Turn right on Figueroa Street; the load- ing ramp is located right next to the harbormaster's office, For more information contact Marin Skin Diving at 800-806-2345.
Brave the elements! Head north to the cold waters of the Oregon coast. Barview Jetty, where Tillamook Bay opens into the Pacific Ocean, is popular for its easy access to the water, At Three Arch Rocks sea lions nose right up to divers. Water temperatures (54°F) and visibility 00-15 feet) are pretty con- stant, allowing for shore diving year-round with wetsuits or dry- suits. Take care: the jetties are slippery and unexpectedly mas- sive swells can sweep up and toss divers against the rocks. To get there, fly from San Francisco to Portland (about $130 round-trip) and drive about two hours west. For more informa- tion, contact Garibaldi Aqua Sports, 503-322-0113, www.oregoncoast.com/aquasports/index.htm.
