SCUBA SAN FRANCISCO
California Scuba Diving Information

Sonoma County

Pic on left is Ocean Cove store - Pic in middle is Ocean Cove - Pic on right is campground
OCEAN COVE
(BEACH DIVES, BOAT/KAYAK DIVES)
(SKILL LEVEL: NOVICE TO ADVANCED)

Ocean Cove is a large private campground just South of Salt Point and just North of Stillwater Cove. This campground has steadily improved over the years and now has hot showers, a nice fish cleaning station, and pit toilets throughout the camp. They do not take reservations for individual campsites, it is on a first come basis. The group campsites can be reserved. The camp is on a bluff overlooking the ocean and the cove. The campsites are large and all have firepits. The owners also operate the Ocean Cove Store which is right across the highway from the campground. To reserve group campsites call the owners Gary and Janet at 1-707-847-3422. To get to Ocean Cove drive to Sonoma milepost 38.10 and turn into the parking area adjacent to the large barn & gas pumps. Camping fees and day use fees are paid at the Ocean Cove store.

There are a number of beach diving sites accessible from a well marked trail which runs south from Ocean Cove to Stillwater Cove. This area has no natural protection from ocean swells, so exercise caution when making entries and exits.

For the person with an inflatable or a kayak, this campground is a dream. There is a dirt/gravel road running from the camp road down to the beach with a very nice boat ramp suitable for small boats. Adjacent to the boat ramp is a gravel beach suitable for "beaching your kayak".

Both beach and boat/kayak divers are rewarded with a rocky bottom, a healthy population of rockfish, and healthy kelp forests. The abalone population is abundant, but because of the coves' popularity, the "big ones" are usually found at depths of 25 feet or more. If you haven't been diving for a while, the inside of Ocean Cove is a very good spot for a tune up dive, and the access from the boat ramp could not be easier (many divers get limits of rockfish and abalone within the cove).

If you decide not to cook, the Salt Point Lodge and restaurant is a 1 minute drive, or a 5 minute walk, from the Ocean Cove store. The meals are reasonably priced and prepared well.

The decision to dive (or not) is your responsibility. Keep diving activities within your training and comfort level. If you feel more training or experience is needed before attempting a dive, don't dive. Know personal limits, skill levels, and abilities of yourself and your dive buddy. Dive Safely and Dive Often!

If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, contact me

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