Stillwater Cove
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Stillwater Cove is the coastal access of the Pebble Beach golf course and it is a truly beautiful place to visit. Despite rumors to the contrary (including among Pebble Beach's own staff), there is neither a limit to the number of divers allowed per day nor is there a reservation system currently in place though parking is tight and divers are advised to arrive early to find a convenient parking space. The cove often earns its name and as it is far more protected than other sites in the Carmel area. While shallow, kelpy and inviting to beginner divers, the Cove itself isn't particularly interesting to more experienced divers who mostly try to head out to Pescadero Rocks or take a kayak around the corner to the North to access more remote locations with more impressive fish. It might be a good idea to check the calendar to make sure there isn't an event going on too that might make your visit more complicated than it ought to be.
| Coordinates | 36.566472, -121.942830 |
| Depth | 40 feet |
| Skill Level | Intermediate |
| Access Method | Shore |
| Protection Status | Carmel Bay State Marine Conservation Area Taking of finfish is permitted |
Contents
Amenities
There are two all-gender bathrooms with attached hot water showers near the pier. Parking is available near the pier but crowding might compel visitors to drop gear by the water and park farther away.
Attractions & Wildlife
The Cove itself has a mostly sandy bottom with rock outcrops colonized by healthy clumps of pterygophora and giant kelp. Because this is such a heavily fished area, most of the local residents are the less sought-after species like surf perches. A small colony of harbor seals also enjoys the area. See what species have been observed by visitors to Carmel Bay State Marine Conservation Area via iNaturalist.
Entry & Access
The waterfront access is on the golf club property and as such it is subject to an entry fee of $10.50 per vehicle payable by cash or card. The fee is refundable if you spend $35 at a Pebble Beach restaurant excluding the Pebble Beach Market. Hotel guests are also exempt. The entry fee covers access to the water front, parking and permission to motor along the scenic 17 Mile Drive. During events and busy weekends the overflow lots are used and may require a long walk.
Download a map of this site to your phone with AvenzaMaps.
Skill Level & Hazards
Yes, there was a high profile shark attack here in November of 2017. No, you shouldn't worry about it. Sharks are in the water everywhere in California and the chances that they'll mess with you is tiny. Dive on.
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.
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