Pacific Wilderness

10/16/26
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FOR LOBSTER SEASON- WE HOPE YOU REACHED YOUR LIMITS BUT AREN’T AT YOUR LIMIT

Remember: Dive for fun / Hunt Responsibly / Eat what u take. Obey the Golden Rule of Lobster Diving…WATCH YOUR AIR!!
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Conditions Forecast
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Conditions were affected by the tropical storm but since Wednesday we have both heard and seen positive reports. Workers at the shop saw 30+ feet of viz at point Fermin yesterday while Vets Park divers dove Redondo Beach were still seeing an average visibility of over 15 feet while beaming cautious of the bacterial advisory. For the days ahead, the forecast predicts sunny skies and mid-to-high 70’s air temperatures for all days except* TUES-THURS where we may see rain at night and low 70’s. Water temperatures still range from 64 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit at deeper levels and warm to 68 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit in the shallows along the coast.
===================================
REDONDO:
The Swell forecast currently* shows Redondo at 0-1 foot Surf with 15 second intervals & 2 foot swells for Saturday (EXCELLENT), 1-2 foot Surf with 16 second intervals combined with 2.5 foot swells on Sunday (VERY GOOD). Our Wednesday Evening Night Dive forecasting 1-2 foot Surf with 12 second intervals combined with 2 foot swells (VERY GOOD). The condition is looking *VERY GOOD* for FRIDAY & SAT as stated.
PALOS VERDES:
WEST facing Palos Verdes Beaches & Coves (Malaga, Haggerty’s, Flat Rock) all show 0-1 foot Surf with 11 second intervals & .5 foot swells for Saturday (EXCELLENT), 0-1 foot Surf with 16 second intervals & 1 foot swells for Sunday (EXCELLENT). High Tide is the Best Time to Dive the West Side of PV due to the Rocky entry. High Tide is around 12 PM on both Saturday and Sunday, so you might want to hit the beach around am for the easiest entry.
SOUTH Facing Beaches in Palos Verdes (Royal Palms, White Point, Point Fermin) show 0-1 foot surf with 16 second intervals & 1 foot swell for Saturday (EXCELLENT), 0-1 foot Surf with 16 second intervals combined with 1 foot swells for Sunday (EXCELLENT). White’s is a rocky entry – so mind your footing on the Entry & Exit.
CABRILLO – A South Facing protected Beach in Palos Verdes/San Pedro shows 0-1 foot surf with 18 second intervals & .5 foot swells for Saturday (VERY GOOD, account of Viz), 0-1 foot Surf with 20 second intervals with .5 foot swells for Sunday (VERY GOOD, account of Viz). We expect VIZ to be typically “just “OK” at Best for Cabrillo.
LAGUNA (not for lobster):
The Swell forecast shows Beaches in Laguna at 1-3 foot Surf with 18 second intervals and 2.5 foot swells for Saturday (FAIR). On Sunday it is showing at 1-3 foot Surf with 16 second intervals combined with 3 -foot swell (GOOD -).
===========================
If you are joining our Group for the First Time, just look for the Pacific Wilderness Beach mats when you arrive at the Beach (Pictured below). Simply come over and say “Hi” - We’ll brief you from there.
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THIS WEEKS LOCAL DIVES
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10/17/2026: First Option is Saturday.
PADI Instructors Spencer & Sergio will be conducting PADI OW Class Dives at CABRILLO BEACH. Though you will not be allowed to dive with the Class, there MAY be
other divers there if you want to buddy-up. Best bet always is to bring your own Buddy
- Date: 08/15/25
- Day/Time: Saturday 7:00 am
- Location: CABRILLO Beach, San Pedro
- Directions: https://pacificwilderness.com/Dive%20Sites/LA%20County/San%20Pedro/Cabrillo%20Beach/San%20Pedro%20-%20Cabrillo%20Beach.htm
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10/18/2026: Second Option is Sunday.
Jeff and crew are diving Santa Monica and if not, PV. Two Dives Attempting the “Star of Scotland” boat wreck for fun & perhaps a little hunting for others in attendance. We'll meet at 6:30 am to board the Island Diver with a 7 am Departure.
We will make two dives & Return around 1 or 2.
This is the perfect dive for divers with limited dive experience.
*** 4 SPOTS AVAILABLE ***
- Date: 10/18/2026
- Day/Time: SUNDAY 6:30 am (Board at 7am)
- Dive Boat: Island Diver
- Destination: Hunting / Photos, Palos Verdes
- Cost: $140 Club Members / $150 General Public
- Boat Location: 310 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
- Boat map:https://pacificwilderness.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/ISLAND-DIVER-Portofino-Way-2.pdf
- Boat Info: Snacks & Water Provided. NO COMPRESSOR, so you must bring 2 tanks for the Dive. IF you need (2) Tanks we will need to know at booking (Stl 72s or Alum 80s Only). Tanks are FREE.
- Parking is Included at the Marina
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License
=================================
10/18/2026: Third option is also Sunday.
Join PW Representatives Randy, Giles & crew who will be making a FUN Dive at Terranea resort in Palos Verdes. Beach Divers are welcome to Dive. Please be aware this is a Long Walk in Full Gear with a Rocky entry. Experienced Beach Divers preferred.
These guys are not PADI Professionals but are very experienced divers who are happy to buddy you up with other divers on the dive. Snorkel, a Compass & a Dive Light are required for this dive.
THIS IS A NO TAKE ZONE - ONLY LOOKING
- Date: 10/18/2026
- Day/Time: Sunday 8:00 am
- Location: Terranea Resort, Palos Verdes
- Directions: Use "Terranea Resort" in your GPS. PV Drive South & Terranea Way. As you turn onto Terranea Way, proceed till you hit the Circle in the Road and veer left into the FIRST Parking Lot. This is the ONLY Public Lot.
=================================
10/21/2026: Fourth Option is Wednesday Night.
Join Instructor Tim for a FUN NIGHT Dive in Redondo Beach. Compass & a Dive Light plus Backup Light are required for this dive. Think of this as an ADVANCED Dive.
All Divers with Beach Experience & proper Night Gear are welcome.
Bring dive lights (Primary & Backup - Hopefully purchased at Pacific Wilderness since you are attending our sponsored dive, & Good Buoyancy control
- Date: 08/19/26
- Day/Time: Wednesday 7:30 pm meetup / Dive at 8:00 pm
- Location: Veteran's Park, Redondo Beach
- Link Here: https://pacificwilderness.com/Dive%20Sites/LA%20County/Redondo%20Beach/Veteran's%20Park/redondo_Veteran's%20Park.htm
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UPCOMING ACTIVITIES FOR LONGER TERM PLANNING:
=================================
2026 BOAT TRIP CALENDAR IS NOW ONLINE!!:https://pacificwilderness.com/.../2026-Boat-Calendar-web.pdf
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11/01/2026: Join the Pacific Wilderness Crew for a FUN BOAT Dive aboard the Sundiver Express to CATALINA! Enjoy 3 Dives – All Inclusive (Food & Air)!
Enjoy 3 dives with 3442 PSI air fills, delicious meals, and a fast ride to Catalina—all included! The Sundiver Express gets you there in just over an hour, so you can spend more time diving and less time traveling. The boat provides tanks (Stl 72s or Alum 80s Only) at no additional charge upon request. Please let us know at booking!
***2 SPOTS LEFT****
- Date: 11/01/26
- Day/Time: Sunday 7:00 am Departure - be on board by 6:30 am
- Dive Boat: Sundiver Express
- Destination: Catalina Island
- Cost: $199 Club Members / $199 General Public
- Boat Location: 182 North Marina Drive, Long Beach CA 90803
- Boat Map:https://pacificwilderness.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/SUNDIVER-EXPRESS-Dive-Boat-Map-Prep-Guide-Web.pdf
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11/15/2026: Join Jeff, Manami, & Crew for a LOBSTER Dive!
Two Dives off the wreck “Star of Scotland” in Marina Del Ray for fun & perhaps a little hunting. We'll meet at 6:30 am to board the Island Diver with a 7 am Departure.
Although Advanced certification is not required, experienced OW divers are preferred, as these are considered deep dives.
***3 SPOTS OPEN***
- Date: 11/15/2026
- Day/Time: Saturday 7:00 am (Board at 6:30 am)
- Dive Boat: Island Diver
- Destination: Hunting / Photos, Star of Scotland, Marina Del Ray
- Cost: $140 Club Members / $150 General Public
- Boat Location: 310 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
- Boat map: https://pacificwilderness.com/.../ISLAND-DIVER-Portofino...
- Boat Info: Snacks & Water Provided. NO COMPRESSOR so you must bring 2 tanks for the Dive. IF you need (2) Tanks we will need to know at booking (Stl 72s or Alum 80s Only). Tanks are FREE.
- Parking is Included at the marina
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License
=================================
Pacific Wilderness, Inc.
http://pacificwilderness.com/
PADI 5 Star IDC Dive Center

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LOBSTER SEASON HAS BEEN GOING *SWELL* Not a lot of lobsters scored from our PW team but there have been some big ones and PB’s!

Remember: Dive for fun / Hunt Responsibly / Eat what u take. Obey the Golden Rule of Lobster Diving…WATCH YOUR AIR!!
===================================
Conditions Forecast
===================================
Conditions along the northern coast have been favorable for the past month! Veteran’s Park divers at Redondo Beach were still seeing an average visibility of over +20 feet last week. Divers also reported water temperatures of 68 degrees Fahrenheit at depth and 75 degrees Fahrenheit at the surface, with excellent visibility of over of 40 feet further off rat beach. For the days ahead, the forecast predicts sunny skies and mid-to-high 70’s air temperatures for all days except* SAT/SUN/MON where we expect rain and low 70’s. As Tropical Storm Rachel Nears tides have risen and made conditions more unpredictable so make cautious judgement each day and night before diving. Water temperatures range from 64 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit at deeper levels and warm to 68 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit in the shallows along the coast.

Apart from this weekend and Monday morning (which will need to be seen day by day), we anticipate good conditions for the remainder of the week as Lobster Season continues along!
===================================
REDONDO:
The Swell forecast currently* shows Redondo at 1-2 foot Surf with 14 second intervals & 2 foot swells for Saturday (VERY GOOD-), 2-3 foot Surf with 7 second intervals combined with 6 foot swells on Sunday (UNSAFE). Our Wednesday Evening Night Dive forecasting 1-2 foot Surf with 15 second intervals combined with 3 foot swells (GOOD). The condition is looking *GOOD* for FRIDAY & SAT AND DIMINISHING as stated.
PALOS VERDES:
WEST facing Palos Verdes Beaches & Coves (Malaga, Haggerty’s, Flat Rock) all show 0-1 foot Surf with 5 second intervals & 1.5 foot swells for Saturday (VERY GOOD), 1-3 foot Surf with 7 second intervals & 6 foot swells for Sunday (UNSAFE). High Tide is the Best Time to Dive the West Side of PV due to the Rocky entry. High Tide is around **AM on both Saturday and Sunday, so you might want to hit the beach around am for the easiest entry.
SOUTH Facing Beaches in Palos Verdes (Royal Palms, White Point, Point Fermin) show 0-1 foot surf with 8 second intervals & 1 foot swell for Saturday (FAIR), 1-3 foot Surf with 7 second intervals combined with 6 foot swells for Sunday (UNSAFE). White’s is a rocky entry – so mind your footing on the Entry & Exit.
CABRILLO – A South Facing protected Beach in Palos Verdes/San Pedro shows 0-1 foot surf with 8 second intervals & 1 foot swells for Saturday (FAIR), 1-3 foot Surf with 10 second intervals with 3 foot swells for Sunday (FAIR - -, BE CAUTIOUS). We expect VIZ to be typically “just “OK” at Best for Cabrillo.
LAGUNA (not for lobster):
The Swell forecast shows Beaches in Laguna at 1-2 foot Surf with 18 second intervals and 2 foot swells for Saturday (VERY GOOD-). On Sunday it is showing at 1-2 foot Surf with 13 second intervals combined with 3.5 -foot swells (FAIR -, BE CAUTIOUS).
===========================
If you are joining our Group for the First Time, just look for the Pacific Wilderness Beach mats when you arrive at the Beach (Pictured below). Simply come over and say “Hi” - We’ll brief you from there.
==========================================
THIS WEEKS LOCAL DIVES
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10/11/2026: Second Option is Sunday **CANCELLED**
Join PW Representatives Ben, Randy, Giles & crew who will be making a FUN Dive at Terranea resort in Palos Verdes. Beach Divers are welcome to Dive. Please be aware this is a Long Walk in Full Gear with a Rocky entry. Experienced Beach Divers preferred.
These guys are not PADI Professionals but are very experienced divers who are happy to buddy you up with other divers on the dive. Snorkel, a Compass & a Dive Light are required for this dive.
THIS IS A NO TAKE ZONE - ONLY LOOKING
- Date: 10/11/26 **CANCELLED**
- Day/Time: Sunday 8:00 am
- Location: Terranea Resort, Palos Verdes
- Directions: Use "Terranea Resort" in your GPS. PV Drive South & Terranea Way. As you turn onto Terranea Way, proceed till you hit the Circle in the Road and veer left into the FIRST Parking Lot. This is the ONLY Public Lot.
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10/14/2025: Third Option Is Wednesday Night - TBD
(Will edit if not planning to go)
Join Instructor Ian & Divemaster Tim plus Crew for a FUN NIGHT Dive at Veteran’s Park in Redondo Beach. Compass & a Dive Light plus Backup Light are required for this dive. Think of this as an ADVANCED Dive.
All Divers with Beach Experience & proper Night Gear are welcome.
Bring dive lights (Primary & Backup - Hopefully purchased at Pacific Wilderness since you are attending our sponsored dive), & Good Buoyancy control.
THIS DIVE IS PENDING - Check for Update.
- Date: 10/14/25
- Day/Time: Wednesday 7:30 pm meetup / Dive at 8:00 pm
- Location: Veteran's Park, Redondo Beach
- Link Here:https://pacificwilderness.com/.../redondo_Veteran's...
====================================
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES FOR LONGER TERM PLANNING:
=================================
2026 BOAT TRIP CALENDAR IS NOW ONLINE!!:https://pacificwilderness.com/.../2026-Boat-Calendar-web.pdf
=================================
10/11/2026: Join Jeff & Crew for a FUN Day Aboard the Giant Stride to the Oil Rigs!!! We'll make THREE Dives for FUN & to get Scallops! **(Currently monitoring conditions closely)**
NOT SURE How to get Scallops??? We can show you how! Free Tutorial on the Boat - Just come prepared with the PROPER Scallop Gear. Available Exclusively at PW: Red Game Bag ($25.50) & PW Exclusive Custom Scallop Knife ($16.50). The scallops are Yummy!
Guaranteed Limit of (10) --- if you want!
This Trip is limited to (6) Divers.
We'll meet at 6:30 am to board the Giant Stride with a 7 am Departure heading to the Rigs Eureka & Twins (Ellen & Ellie) .
We will make three dives & Return around 4:00 pm.
This is a Dive Day reserved for ADVANCED DIVERS ONLY(Advanced Open Water Certification or up is required to book). Divers MUST have GOOD Buoyancy control. This is NOT the dive to dial in new Gear or check your Buoyancy.
***WAITLIST***
- Date: 10/11/26
- Day/Time: Sunday 7:00 am (Board at 6:30 am)
- Dive Boat: Giant Stride
- Destination: Oil Rigs for Scallops
- Cost: $199 Club Members / $215 General Public
- Boat Provides Air Fills, but Compressor is Slow. PLEASE BRING TWO TANKS for 3 Dives
- Boat Location for Loading: Dock Next to LA Maritime Museum, Berth 84, San Pedro CA
- Boat map: https://pacificwilderness.com/.../GIANT-STRIDE-22nd...
- Boat Info: Snacks, Fruits, Coffee, Tea & Water Provided. Tank Fills are FREE.
- Parking is FREE in some spots & pay in others - Credit Cards Only
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License.
=================================
10/18/2026: Join Jeff, Manami, & Crew for a LOBSTER Dive!
Two Dives off the wreck “Star of Scotland” in Marina Del Ray for fun & perhaps a little hunting. We'll meet at 6:30 am to board the Island Diver with a 7 am Departure.
Although Advanced certification is not required, experienced OW divers are preferred, as these are considered deep dives.
***5 SPOTS OPEN***
- Date: 10/18/26
- Day/Time: Saturday 7:00 am (Board at 6:30 am)
- Dive Boat: Island Diver
- Destination: Hunting / Photos, Star of Scotland, Marina Del Ray
- Cost: $165 Club Members / $175 General Public
- Boat Location: 310 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
- Boat map: https://pacificwilderness.com/.../ISLAND-DIVER-Portofino...
- Boat Info: Snacks & Water Provided. NO COMPRESSOR so you must bring 2 tanks for the Dive. IF you need (2) Tanks we will need to know at booking (Stl 72s or Alum 80s Only). Tanks are FREE.
- Parking is Included at the marina
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License
=================================
Pacific Wilderness, Inc.
http://pacificwilderness.com/

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LOBSTER SEASON OPENS TODAY @6:00PM - ARE YOU READY?
***Do you have proper Lobster Gear:
Light, Backup Light, Lobster Bag, Good Gloves, a CALIFORNIA Lobster Gauge, Fishing License & Lobster Card
Obey the Golden Rule of Lobster Diving…WATCH YOUR AIR!!
===================================
Conditions Forecast
===================================
We’ve had favorable dive conditions all along the northern coast over the past month! Veteran’s Park at Redondo Beach had an average 20 ft + VIZ over the last week. Divers also reported 66F at depth and 69F at the surface with 50+ Feet of VIZ at the Olympic this morning. Looking ahead, the forecast is calling for Sunny skies and Mid-High 80’s air temperature for the rest of the week. Conditions & VIZ have been excellent throughout this past month, and we are expecting these good conditions to continue over the coming week of lobster opener with calm surf and sunny skies in the forecast. Water temperatures are ranging from 60-64° at deeper levels, warming to 66-72° in the shallows along the coast.
We are expecting very good conditions for the upcoming week as we head into Lobster Season!
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CONDITION FORECAST FOR LOBSTER OPENER TONIGHT.
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REDONDO: 0-1 foot Surf with 16 second intervals & 1 foot swells (EXCELLENT)
HAGGERTY: 0-1 foot Surf with 5 second intervals & 1 foot swells (VERY GOOD)
WHITE POINT: 0-1 foot Surf with 16 second intervals & 1-2 foot swells (EXCELLENT)
CABRILLO: 0-1 foot Surf with 12 second intervals & 0.5 foot swells (EXCELLENT)
Overall, conditions along the coast look excellent! Low tide is at Midnight tonight, so please be extra careful and watch your step when entering or exiting the water in the dark.
===================================
REDONDO:
The Swell forecast currently shows Redondo at 0-1 foot Surf with 15 second intervals & 1.25 foot swells for Saturday (EXCELLENT), 0-1 foot Surf with 15 second intervals combined with 1.25 foot swells on Sunday (EXCELLENT). Our Wednesday Evening Night Dive forecasting 0-1 foot Surf with 18 second intervals combined with 1 foot swells (EXCELLENT). The condition is looking EXCELLENT for today as stated.
PALOS VERDES:
WEST facing Palos Verdes Beaches & Coves (Malaga, Haggerty’s, Flat Rock) all show 0-1 foot Surf with 12 second intervals & 0.75 foot swells for Saturday (EXCELLENT), 0-1 foot Surf with 11 second intervals & 0.75 foot swells for Sunday (EXCELLENT). High Tide is the Best Time to Dive the West Side of PV due to the Rocky entry. High Tide is around 8-9AM on both Saturday and Sunday, so you might want to hit the beach around 7:30 am for the easiest entry.
SOUTH Facing Beaches in Palos Verdes (Royal Palms, White Point, Point Fermin) show 0-1 foot surf with 15 second intervals & 0.75 foot swell for Saturday (EXCELLENT), 0-1 foot Surf with 13 second intervals combined with 1.5 foot swells for Sunday (VERY GOOD). White’s is a rocky entry – so mind your footing on the Entry & Exit.
CABRILLO – A South Facing protected Beach in Palos Verdes/San Pedro shows 0-1 foot surf with 12 second intervals & 1 foot swells for Saturday (EXCELLENT), 0-1 foot Surf with 13 second intervals with 1.5 foot swells for Sunday (VERY GOOD). We expect VIZ to be typically “just “OK” at Best for Cabrillo.
LAGUNA (not for lobster):
The Swell forecast shows Beaches in Laguna at 0-1 foot Surf with 12 second intervals and 1 foot swells for Saturday (EXCELLENT). On Sunday we are looking at 0-1 foot Surf with 14 second intervals combined with 1.5 -foot swells (VERY GOOD).
===========================
WATER TEMPS/ WEATHER:
The Weather forecast calls for Sunny skies all week. Air temperatures in the Mid 70s all Week. Water temperatures are ranging from 60-64° at deeper levels, warming to 66-72° in the shallows along the coast.
If you are joining our Group for the First Time, just look for the Pacific Wilderness Beach mats when you arrive at the Beach (Pictured below). Simply come over and say “Hi” - We’ll brief you from there.
==========================================
THIS WEEKS LOCAL DIVES
=====================================
10/3/2026: First Option is Saturday.
Join Jeff & Crew for a LOBSTER Dive! Two Dives off Palos Verdes for OPENING DAY OF LOBSTER SEASON!
Two Dives off Palos Verdes for fun & perhaps a little lobster hunting. We'll meet at 7:30 am to board the Island Diver with a 8 am Departure.
We will make two dives off PV & Return around Noon.
This is the perfect dive for divers with limited dive experience.
***WAIT LIST***
- Date: 10/3/26
- Day/Time: Saturday 8:00 am (Board at 7:30 am)
- Dive Boat: Island Diver
- Destination: Hunting / Photos, Palos Verdes
- Cost: $160
- Boat Location: 310 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
- Boat map: https://pacificwilderness.com/.../ISLAND-DIVER-Portofino...
- Boat Info: Snacks & Water Provided. NO COMPRESSOR so you must bring 2 tanks for the Dive. IF you need (2) Tanks we will need to know at booking (Stl 72s or Alum 80s Only). Tanks are FREE.
- Parking is Included at the marina
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License
=================================
10/4/2026: Second Option is Sunday
Join PW Representatives Ben, Randy, Giles & crew who will be making a FUN Dive at Terranea resort in Palos Verdes. Beach Divers are welcome to Dive. Please be aware this is a Long Walk in Full Gear with a Rocky entry. Experienced Beach Divers preferred.
These guys are not PADI Professionals but are very experienced divers who are happy to buddy you up with other divers on the dive. Snorkel, a Compass & a Dive Light are required for this dive.
THIS IS A NO TAKE ZONE - ONLY LOOKING
- Date: 10/4/26
- Day/Time: Sunday 8:00 am
- Location: Terranea Resort, Palos Verdes
- Directions: Use "Terranea Resort" in your GPS. PV Drive South & Terranea Way. As you turn onto Terranea Way, proceed till you hit the Circle in the Road and veer left into the FIRST Parking Lot. This is the ONLY Public Lot.
=================================
10/04/2025: Third Option Is Monday
Join Instructor Cory & Crew for a FUN Dive at Veteran’s Park in Redondo Beach. Compass & a camera are recommended . Think of this as a good Beginners Dive.
All Divers with Beach Experience are welcome.
- Date: 10/04/26
- Day/Time: Wednesday 7:00 am meetup
- Location: Veteran's Park, Redondo Beach
- Link Here:https://pacificwilderness.com/.../redondo_Veteran's...
=================================
10/07/2025: Fourth Option Is Wednesday Night
Join Instructor Ian & Divemaster Tim plus Crew for a FUN NIGHT Dive at Veteran’s Park in Redondo Beach. Compass & a Dive Light plus Backup Light are required for this dive. Think of this as an ADVANCED Dive.
All Divers with Beach Experience & proper Night Gear are welcome.
Bring dive lights (Primary & Backup - Hopefully purchased at Pacific Wilderness since you are attending our sponsored dive), & Good Buoyancy control.
THIS DIVE IS PENDING - Check for Update.
- Date: 10/07/25
- Day/Time: Wednesday 7:30 pm meetup / Dive at 8:00 pm
- Location: Veteran's Park, Redondo Beach
- Link Here:https://pacificwilderness.com/.../redondo_Veteran's...
====================================
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES FOR LONGER TERM PLANNING:
=================================
2026 BOAT TRIP CALENDAR IS NOW ONLINE!!:https://pacificwilderness.com/.../2026-Boat-Calendar-web.pdf
=================================
10/03/2026: Join Jeff, Manami, & Crew for a LOBSTER Dive! Two Dives off Palos Verdes for OPENING DAY OF LOBSTER SEASON!
Two Dives off Palos Verdes for fun & perhaps a little lobster hunting. We'll meet at 7:30 am to board the Island Diver with a 8 am Departure.
We will make two dives off PV & Return around Noon.
This is the perfect dive for divers with limited dive experience.
***WAIT LIST***
- Date: 10/03/26
- Day/Time: Saturday 8:00 am (Board at 7:30 am)
- Dive Boat: Island Diver
- Destination: Hunting / Photos, Palos Verdes
- Cost: $160
- Boat Location: 310 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
- Boat map: https://pacificwilderness.com/.../ISLAND-DIVER-Portofino...
- Boat Info: Snacks & Water Provided. NO COMPRESSOR so you must bring 2 tanks for the Dive. IF you need (2) Tanks we will need to know at booking (Stl 72s or Alum 80s Only). Tanks are FREE.
- Parking is Included at the marina
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License
=================================
10/11/2026: Join Jeff & Crew for a FUN Day Aboard the Giant Stride to the Oil Rigs!!! We'll make THREE Dives for FUN & to get Scallops!
NOT SURE How to get Scallops??? We can show you how! Free Tutorial on the Boat - Just come prepared with the PROPER Scallop Gear. Available Exclusively at PW: Red Game Bag ($25.50) & PW Exclusive Custom Scallop Knife ($16.50). The scallops are Yummy!
Guaranteed Limit of (10) --- if you want!
This Trip is limited to (6) Divers.
We'll meet at 6:30 am to board the Giant Stride with a 7 am Departure heading to the Rigs Eureka & Twins (Ellen & Ellie) .
We will make three dives & Return around 4:00 pm.
This is a Dive Day reserved for ADVANCED DIVERS ONLY(Advanced Open Water Certification or up is required to book). Divers MUST have GOOD Buoyancy control. This is NOT the dive to dial in new Gear or check your Buoyancy.
***WAITLIST***
- Date: 10/11/26
- Day/Time: Sunday 7:00 am (Board at 6:30 am)
- Dive Boat: Giant Stride
- Destination: Oil Rigs for Scallops
- Cost: $199 Club Members / $215 General Public
- Boat Provides Air Fills, but Compressor is Slow. PLEASE BRING TWO TANKS for 3 Dives
- Boat Location for Loading: Dock Next to LA Maritime Museum, Berth 84, San Pedro CA
- Boat map: https://pacificwilderness.com/.../GIANT-STRIDE-22nd...
- Boat Info: Snacks, Fruits, Coffee, Tea & Water Provided. Tank Fills are FREE.
- Parking is FREE in some spots & pay in others - Credit Cards Only
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License.
=================================
10/18/2026: Join Jeff, Manami, & Crew for a LOBSTER Dive!
Two Dives off the wreck “Star of Scotland” in Marina Del Ray for fun & perhaps a little hunting. We'll meet at 6:30 am to board the Island Diver with a 7 am Departure.
Although Advanced certification is not required, experienced OW divers are preferred, as these are considered deep dives.
***5 SPOTS OPEN***
- Date: 10/18/26
- Day/Time: Saturday 7:00 am (Board at 6:30 am)
- Dive Boat: Island Diver
- Destination: Hunting / Photos, Star of Scotland, Marina Del Ray
- Cost: $165 Club Members / $175 General Public
- Boat Location: 310 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
- Boat map: https://pacificwilderness.com/.../ISLAND-DIVER-Portofino...
- Boat Info: Snacks & Water Provided. NO COMPRESSOR so you must bring 2 tanks for the Dive. IF you need (2) Tanks we will need to know at booking (Stl 72s or Alum 80s Only). Tanks are FREE.
- Parking is Included at the marina
- Hunters MUST HAVE a Fishing License
=================================
Pacific Wilderness, Inc.
http://pacificwilderness.com/
PADI 5 Star IDC Dive Center

Lobster season is right around the corner! 🦞
Whether you’re hunting for the first time or looking to improve your technique, knowing the rules, having the right gear, and staying safe are essential. Here are some practical tips to help you hunt legally, safely, and successfully this lobster season.

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What do you need LEGALLY?
————————————————————

- California fishing license with ocean enhancement stamp

- California lobster report card (Date, hunting area, and method of diving must be filled out BEFORE the dive.)

- 3 ¼” California lobster gauge

For more information: California Department of Fish and Wildlife – Spiny Lobster

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What do you need PRACTICALLY?
————————————————————

- Primary light (1000+ lumens)

- Backup light (500+ lumens)

- Marker light (optional, but safer and useful for a buddy to keep track of you)

- A light-mounted gauge makes it MUCH easier to measure lobsters at night.

- Game bag with a reliable bolt snap (squeeze-handle bags are highly recommended)

- Tough gloves. Kevlar or “rhino hide” gloves allow you to grab lobsters aggressively without worrying about tearing up your hands on the spines – OUCH!

Freedivers only:

Float with a marker light from which to hang the game bag.

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Limit:
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-Seven lobsters in possession (includes any in the freezer at home).

Lobsters must be at least 3 ¼” along the carapace. Learn how to measure lobsters legally before you start hunting.


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Tips:
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When to hunt?
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Most divers prefer to hunt lobsters at night because lobsters are nocturnal and are out of their holes looking for food at night.

However, daytime hunting can be effective if you can find reefs with holes that are not too deep. Lobsters will back into the holes, but if you are fast enough and persistent enough, you can get lobsters out of the holes if you can reach them.

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Where to hunt
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The harder it is to get to an area, the more likely it is to be productive. However, be cautious and careful. No lobster is worth getting hurt over.

It is a good idea to scope out an area in daylight before trying to hunt there at night. Remember, a site that is easy to dive during the day may be much more dangerous at night. Be more cautious about surf conditions if diving at night.

Above all: BE SAFE

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Where NOT to hunt
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Do not hunt in Marine Protected Areas. Check the DFW website.

Poaching gives divers a bad name. It is important to be responsible and ethical in your hunting.

Tickets for undersized, over-limit, or poached lobsters are very expensive. It’s not worth the risk.

Do not steal lobsters from commercial traps. It is not good to mess with someone’s living to get a lobster for fun. Sometimes, wardens will bait commercial traps with secretly marked lobsters… Don’t risk a hefty fine.

Do not steal lobsters from recreational hoop nets. There is no need to stoke animosity between divers and hoop netters. There are enough lobsters for everyone. Diving around active boats is dangerous, and it is a bad idea to risk a confrontation with an angry hoop netter.

Do not hunt lobsters with tools, spearguns, tickle sticks, etc. Only grab them with your hands.

NOTE: It is legal to hunt lobsters while carrying a speargun, but you can never use the speargun to catch lobsters.

Catching lobsters is hard at first, but you will get better with practice. The challenge is to catch lobsters LEGALLY, and it is more satisfying to know you did it “by the book.”

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How do you know if you are in a good area?
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If you are seeing lobsters (even shorts), you are in a good area. Lobsters are social animals and like to hang out with other lobsters. If you see shorts, you will most likely find a few legals nearby if you look hard enough.

If you don’t see any lobsters at all, move to another area and keep moving until you start seeing lobsters.

Lobsters prefer certain depths under certain conditions, usually due to temperature and other environmental conditions.

When they are ready to molt (lose their old shell), they look for warmer, shallow water to make the old shell more flexible. When a storm approaches, bringing surge, they will go deeper, where they need to use less energy to move around. They always tend to stay close to reefs and rocks, where there is more life and therefore more food for them.

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No. 1 Tip for Most Productive Hunting
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Learn to judge legal lobsters by sight. Working hard to catch short lobsters is wasted time and effort. The sooner you can start focusing your time on catching legals, the better.

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No. 2 Tip for Productive Hunting
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Be aggressive. Lobsters move fast and will take advantage of tentative approaches to scoot away. Distract the lobster with one hand in front while your dominant hand sneaks up behind and then makes a last-second sn**ch. Pin it hard on the bottom until you can control and bag it.

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Night Hunting
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I find night hunting is best on dark nights. Lobsters have excellent night vision and feel more vulnerable on nights with a bright moon, so they will tend to stay in their holes until the moon goes down.

You can use a bright light to dazzle the lobster so it can’t see your hand coming up to grab it. (Red lights won’t dazzle a lobster, and it will see you coming with its good night vision… Red lights don’t work.)

Lobsters are sensitive to pressure waves, so they will sense movement from behind even if they can’t see it. They can generally only move fast backward, so a grab from behind tends to work in your favor. But they are tricky, and you will “farm” many before you refine your technique. Don’t give up—keep trying!

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Caring for Your Catch
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Lobsters will stay alive for about 24 hours out of water if kept moist and cool.

Keep them away from any fresh water, which is fatal for bugs. If you can keep them in a cooler with contained ice (e.g., frozen water bottles), that’s good. You can also put ice in the bottom of the cooler and keep the lobsters on top in a foil turkey pan. Keep them moist with wet kelp, an old towel soaked in seawater, or even an unrinsed wetsuit.

You can freeze lobsters whole or just the tails. The shell works fairly well to protect against freezer burn, but vacuum-packing the lobster (hard to do with the spines) will make it last longer and taste a little better.