Cortez Bank Suggest edit

Cortez Bank is a remote underwater seamount located off the coast of San Clemente Island, California. It is known for its rich marine biodiversity and unique underwater topography, attracting divers looking for an adventurous dive experience.

Diving at Cortez Bank offers opportunities to explore vibrant kelp forests, rocky outcrops, and an array of marine life including pelagic species. The site is best approached by boat, with dives typically involving drift diving due to the currents. Divers can expect to see schools of fish, sea lions, and occasionally larger species such as sharks.

• Visibility: 10.0–30.0 m Suggest edit
• Currents: Moderate Suggest edit
• Surge: Mild Suggest edit
• Water temp (summer): 15.0–20.0 °C Suggest edit
• Water temp (winter): 12.0–16.0 °C Suggest edit

• Entry: Boat Suggest edit
• Permits required: Yes
  Permits are required for diving around San Clemente Island due to military restrictions.
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• Bottom types:
  rock sand kelp Suggest edit