Tue Jul 01 06:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Catalina Island, known for its vibrant marine life, kelp forests, and unique dive sites, has been named the best place to scuba dive in the United States by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). Famous for its diving scene made known by Jacques Cousteau, Catalina offers diverse underwater experiences, including encounters with giant sea bass, horn sharks, and sea lions. Casino Point, the first nonprofit underwater park in the country, is a marine-protected area where underwater creatures feel comfortable around divers. The island provides opportunities for both experienced and novice divers, with dive centers like In2Deep offering instruction and day trips. Comfortable lodging and transportation options further enhance the experience for visitors to Catalina Island.

**News Article:**

**Catalina Island Crowned Best Dive Spot in the U.S.**

**Avalon, CA** – Divers looking for an underwater paradise need look no further than Catalina Island, which has just been named the best place to scuba dive in the United States by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). The island, already renowned for its stunning kelp forests, diverse marine life, and unique dive sites, beat out other top contenders like Florida and Texas.

“Catalina Island offers a truly unparalleled diving experience,” says Kristin Valette Wirth, the chief brand and membership officer for PADI Worldwide. “From the towering kelp forests to the abundant marine life, including giant sea bass, horn sharks, and sea lions, divers will find something to amaze them at every turn.”

Catalina’s diving legacy was cemented by Jacques Cousteau, whose internationally renowned documentary put the island on the map. Divers can even pay homage to the legend at a plaque located 40 feet below the surface.

Casino Point, the country’s first nonprofit underwater park, is a must-visit for divers of all levels. As a marine-protected area, it offers divers the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of sea creatures in their natural habitat.

For beginners, dive centers like In2Deep in Santa Monica offer instruction and day trips to Catalina. Travelers looking to spend more time on the island can find comfortable lodging at the Catalina Canyon Inn and convenient transportation via the Catalina Express ferry.

With its combination of natural beauty, diverse marine life, and accessible diving opportunities, Catalina Island has truly earned its title as the best place to scuba dive in the United States.

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