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Isla San Pedro
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Only 17 miles away, Isla San Pedro is the primary destination
for diving and fishing out of San Carlos. One trip to here and
it becomes obvious why. I was certified at Isla San Pedro, and
I have never got over the awe.
Essentially a big rock, with
steep sides jutting out of deep water (it is on the edge of a
deep canyon), the island looks to be a forbidding place. But
underwater it is remarkable.
Southwest shore
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Anchoring
Most cruising guides list the island as having no anchorages.
This is not entirely true. There is a small cove by the light
house on the east side of the island that offers decent
protection from the southwest, but limited protection from the
north. You can anchor in somewhat rocky sand, in 20-30 feet of
water. The trick is to drop your main anchor as close to the
island as you can and then back away and drop a stern anchor.
Anchored at Lighthouse Cove
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I have spent many comfortable nights here, with no incidents.
However, you have to watch the weather closely. If the winds
pickup from the north, you will have to move to the other side
of the island, where anchorages are very limited and deep. The
better alternative is probobly to anchor on either side of
Punta San Pedro on the mainland, seven miles to the east.
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The younger sea lions will play
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Sea Lions
Often referred to by the gringo misnomer Seal Island,
Isla San Pedro has no seals. What it does have are sea
lions; lots of them! The island is the year round residence for
a large population of California Sea Lions. Even if you don't dive,
the Isla San Pedro is worth a visit just to watch and interact with them.
When snorkeling and diving the younger sea lions will often come right up to
you. I have video of five of them playing with me at once (I hope to post
video clips soon).
Avoid the big guys
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Sea lion posing underwater
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One of many great diving locations
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Diving
Depths start at about 20', but
quickly open up into a deep abyss. The underwater landscape
consists of sheer cliffs and boulders. The amount of life
swimming here is staggering. Morays, angels, puffers, parrot
fish, and dozens of other species are everywhere. Big
pelagic fish come in from the deep water. Manta rays make
frequent visits here, and hammerhead sharks are occasionally
seen as well.
There are more good dive sites around the island than I can
count. Lighthouse cove is a good starting point (and a great
night dive). One of my favorite spots is an underwater peak
just off the south end of the island. |
Cortez angel
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Green moray
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