California Scuba Diving Information
Sonoma County

Pic on left shows Russian Gulch Beach - Pic on right shows parking area and entrance
RUSSIAN GULCH (Sonoma County)
(BEACH / KAYAK DIVES)
SKILL LEVEL: ADVANCED TO EXPERT)

This beach is located just a few miles past Jenner on Highway 1 at the Sonoma mile marker 24.45. There is ample parking for at least 30 to 40 cars. There is a pit toilet, but no running water. This little used beach offers access to the areas North of Jenner which you can see from Highway 1, but can't get to because of the very high cliffs. If you go North of this beach the abalone diving and spearfishing are very good and usually in water shallower than 15 feet. It is possible to traverse the rocks on the right side of the beach to get to the next cove for some very easy abalone diving. The water can be very murky when the Russian River is flowing, but in the summer the visibility at this beach cleans up to a very acceptable level.

Please keep in mind that both North and South of this beach are almost sheer cliffs with rock faces. If the ocean kicks up (as commonly happens in the afternoon) a novice diver could get into trouble.

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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