Best snorkeling on Catalina Island,Ca?

[proudmotherinlaw]

Hi,We're going on RCCL this month to Catalina Island.I can't decide on which excursion/s to take.RCCL does offer a 'lovers cove' snorkeling,but it doesn't sound very exciting.Does anyone have any suggestions of the best snorkeling areas/companies?I did find on the internet Descanso Beach Ocean Sports which combines kayaking and snorkeling,it seems like it would be fun.Not sure if you see much snorkeling though.We went snorkeling in the caribbean,and although we enjoyed it,we didn't see much on that excursion.The other excursion for the trip this month I'm interested in is Ocean Eco Rafting,its onboard a power rigid hull inflatable raft and explores the coastline.Thank you for your help!

[cruzegirl]

Well, being a Californian, go for something other than snorkeling on Catalina Island. As much as California is touted as being sunny southern California and beaches and all..... It's not warm water beaches out here.... And the water is rough.... It's not calm Caribbean water. Our waters are on the colder side. Even in the middle of summer, you only find the real tough folks in swimsuits in the water. The majority of people wear wetsuits, even if shorties, for water sports. Myself, as a diver, I wear full wetsuit gear (hood, boots and gloves) for diving.

My recommendation is kayaking, other tours for Catalina Island. I don't think you'll be happy at all snorkeling on the Island. :rolleyes:

[proudmotherinlaw]

Thank you.We'll save snorkeling for the caribbean.Kayaking it may well be!

[ALadyNCal]

Catalina is very popular for snorkeling & scuba. The water isn't warm like the Caribbean, but you might still enjoy it. You can walk 10 minutes from the pier to the marine park near the casino + rent a shortie wet suit and any gear you might need. There are stairs into the water. Here is a link with info in case you're interested ~~

 

http://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/avalon/acti_snorkeling.php

[cruzegirl]

While I agree with ALadyNCal that you might enjoy or see some neat things while snorkeling, it won't be as much stuff as the Caribbean. At least for snorkeling. Diving is great here.... We have a very diverse eco system here.... But make sure if you snorkel, that they have regular wetsuits, not shorties. I don't feel a shorty would be enough for you....... :rolleyes:

[proudmotherinlaw]

Thank you both for the information :)