Binnacle Rock
Conditions & tides
Scored by DiveConnect's site-physics model
Marine forecast via Copernicus Marine. Score is a rule-based guide from swell/wind vs. the site's exposure — always dive your own assessment.
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About this site
Located off Santa Catalina Island, this site features a striking pinnacle rising from the ocean floor, covered in vibrant orange and purple hydrocoral. Schools of blacksmith fish swirl around the rock, while calico bass and moray eels hide in crevices. The clear Pacific waters offer excellent visibility, with occasional sightings of bat rays gliding past. Currents can be strong, making it ideal for drift diving. Depths range from 30 to 80 feet, suitable for intermediate divers. The rock's unique shape creates interesting swim-throughs and overhangs.
Marine life here
Confirmed by our research team, reported by independent divers, or observed nearby via iNaturalist — each entry is labelled with its source.
Blacksmith ChromisChromis punctipinnisReported here · unconfirmed
Kelp BassParalabrax clathratusReported here · unconfirmed
California SheepheadBodianus pulcherReported here · unconfirmed
GaribaldiHypsypops rubicundusReported here · unconfirmed
Durable tips from divers — access, hazards, marine life, facilities. For day-of conditions, use the report tool in the conditions card above.
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