snorkeling in Catalina?

[Tryx]

I'm not a diver, but after getting into reefing, I've always wanted to try it. I'll be going on a cruise in 2 weeks and there is a stop at Catalina. Since all my money went into the tickets :sad2: I was wondering if I could just bring my own snorkeling gear and find a decent place to dive in.
Any locals on here ever do this? I just didn't know if there were spots to snorkel that are "walking" distance or if I have to book a guided tour that includes a boat ride.

any sugestions? the cheaper the better!

 

[slief]

Casino point is right there in Avalon and a quick walk from the dock. Its a reserve and offers great diving and snorkeling with easy in and out of the water access. Lots of fish and lobster off Casino. Visability is usually great there as well. Its kind of a wall type dive as it drops off fast. If you have your own mask and fins, it wont cost you a dime. A good wetsuit will make your time in the water much more enjoyable as the water is in the low 60's this time of year. This will be your best bet for snorkeling out of avalon short of getting on a charter which can get costly.

 

[Xgame2k]

+1 on the water being cold

 

[ub32965]

Keep your eyes peeled for Hemisquilla Californienis (california mantis shrimp) found from 10-30m

 

[Metal7fold22]

you should check out other spots on the island..i went scuba divin there once and it was amazing...water is cold but its well worth it and its not as bad as you think...visabilty for me when i went was crazy seemed like i could see as far as i could see out of water haha

 

[David P]

the water is cold a the point? cant remember the last time I was in the water there without my drysuit It can be beautiful there, hate to say it but dec/Jan is the best, the water is colder but clearer...better have a wetsuit

 

[photobret]

Snorkel Casino point and also check out the little bay east of the ferry terminal. I rented a 2 piece 7mm farmer John at the local dive shop and snorkelled in March. No probs.