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Gerstle Cove - Mendocino Coast - Fort Ross CA


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Gerstle Cove - Mendocino Coast is a shore accessible salt water dive site, located in Fort Ross, CA. This dive site has an average rating of 3.89 out of 5 from 9 scuba divers. The average visibility is 16-20ft/5-6m.

Gerstle Cove is found within the Salt Point State Park, and offers some of the finest Abalone hunting in this area. 

 About 6 miles North of Fort Ross, you’ll find the campground entrance.
I went abalone diving, and the snorkeling conditions were great!
Beautiful spot. No current, a little surge. Entry over large slippery wet rocks is a bit of a challenge. Saw lots of stars, urchins, anemones, rock fish, abalone and one big wolf eel completely visible (3 to 4 feet tip to tip). Recommend diving at high tide for greater depth and fewer rocks at entry.


http://www.shorediving.com/Earth/USA_West/CalN/Gerstle_Cove/index.htm

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Comments
WILLO - 10/04/2014 12:33 AM
I went scuba diving here on 8/20/2014. Average viz: 16-20ft/5-6m. Water temp: 56-60°F/13-16°C.
First off Salt Point is in Sonoma County. We decided to Free Dive So. Gerstle Cove because the conditions were very good. No swell, surge or wind too speak of. Vis was at 20’, water temp. at 59F.
I limited on seven (7) dives, my deepest dive was 18’ for 36 seconds. My largest Ab 8.5". Salt Point is still a good dive site for Abs. We didn’t see a lot of fish. Diving is still through the Palm Kelp for the prized Abalone.
Revelin - 5/20/2013 3:02 PM
Rating Added: 3
There can be a bit of a surge at times but great life and color. Easy access from the beach.
mermaidseeker - 9/14/2012 11:33 PM
The cove itself is off limits to taking abs, as it is a reserve, but beyond the boundaries yields nice foraging.
BrianM - 7/05/2012 12:53 PM
Rating Added: 5
One of my favorite Nor Cal dive spots. The wreck of the Norlina is a great place to find ling cod.