So you want to go diving but you don’t want to dive off a
crowded boat over a weekend or fight the surf zone on a beach dive. You ask
yourself “where should I dive?” The
answer is clear, go to Catalina Island on the Express. The cost is $71.50, and
it takes you just over an hour. Check online to find departures that will fit
your schedule. Parking at the terminal is around $15.
Once you get to the island let the baggage handlers take your gear straight to the Dive Park for you, and the cost is about $10 including tip. If you are traveling light there are three dive operations to get you going with gear. As you walk into town the first you’ll come to is Moore Diving. It is a little shop with a knowledgeable owner. To get to the second operation take a right onto the Green Pier. Located towards the end of the pier you will find Catalina Divers Supply (CDS). To your left, away from the Green Pier, is the third operation, Scuba Luv. You can also head straight towards the Casino and the Underwater Dive Park and get rentals from the air fill station, which is operated by CDS.
The Dive Park offers World Class diving down just a few steps
into tranquil forests of kelp. You can
find everything from wrecks to reefs and a variety of fish. The depths of your
dive can vary from shallow to just over 100fsw. If you are not familiar with
the Dive Park then hire a dive guide who will give you an expert tour of the
park. Don’t forget to tip your dive guide! A typical tip is usually $20, but if
your guide gets you a glance of the Cousteau Monument, “Oscar” the famous park sheephead,
or even the occasional Giant Black Sea Bass then by all means, show your
appreciation with a little bit more. 
When you have finished your dives you will probably realize
that you have worked up an appetite. There are several restaurants back in
town. Two of my favorite spots are El Galleon, especially if you have the voice
for karaoke, or Luau Larry’s. Luau
Larry’s has great burgers and, if island rumors are to be believed, some excellent
beverages to get you ready for your trip back to the Mainland.
