Lovers Cove
Lovers Cove is another protected body of water that is as reliably diveable as Breakwater Cove but without the crowds of divers. Free divers enjoying the bright shallow water will have as much fun as the scuba divers who surface swim out into deeper waters.
Quick Info
| Depth | 35ft |
| Skill Level | Beginner |
| Access Method | Surface swim |
| Protection Status | No Fishing or Collection |
Attractions & Wildlife
The shallow water here harbors vast eel grass beds and colorful vegetation that is an essential nursery habitat for young fish and as such fishing and collecting here is strictly forbidden. Opaleye, Rubberlip Perch and Pile Perch are reliable residents and the occasional Sheephead are not uncommon. Farther out into deeper water, large reef pinnacles are covered in Strawberry Anemones and mobile invertebrates patrol the rocks though the deeper water has in recent years become mostly urchin barren. The deep sand channel is an important navigational aid and Thornback Rays can sometimes be seen there.
A long reef covered in bright yellow sponges dubbed "Yellow Brick Road" is a long surface swim or a boat dive destination that features abundant marine invertebrates.
Swim out East into Lovers Cove and check out the large rocky reefs there or do a one-way dive that rounds the peninsula entering at Lovers 3 and exiting Lovers 1 or visa versa.
See what other people have observed in the Lovers Point Marine Reserve via iNaturalist.
Entry & Access
Lovers Cove is best accesssed from Lovers Point Park from Lovers 1 or Lovers 2. Download a map of this site to your phone using AvenzaMaps.
Skill Level & Hazards
This is a very forgiving site but swell and current can increase as one gets farther from shore.
Nearest Emergency Medical Facilities
Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula 23625 pacific Grove-Carmel Hwy, Monterey
EMS activation by boat: Notify Coast Guard boat crew on channel 16 or call 911. Patient transfer at Fuel Dock or at sea.
Additional Maps
Download a site map of Lovers Cove onto your phone using the Avenza App on Android Play or Apple iTunes.
