Safe Mendo spot when rough?

Hey guys and gals,

I'm camping up in mendocino next weekend and although conditions look pretty bad I've got to take my dive stuff anyway. SO, I haven't dove that area much at all and I'm looking for a well protected spot as I may be bringing a newbie along and I'd prefer he not get beat up too much. Any recommendations near the town of Mendo? I'll just be spearing, so I'm not concerned about abalone this time, he will likely just be snorkeling.

Thanks!

-Michael

Van Damme is the most protected

Van Damme is the most protected

Probably THE most protected on the entire coast.

Yeah I'd second Van Damme. It obviously gets a ton of divers because of being protected and having super easy access, but most people are getting in boats or kayaks and heading off a ways. There are still plenty of abs in the cove if you're willing to kick a bit. Probably no big 9's this time of year, but out at the keyhole rock, for instance, you should be able to get 8 1/2's. Good luck, dive safe!

He said abs were not of concern.  I have taken people there just to get used to the water and get their buoyancy figured out. 

There are big abs and plenty of fish you just have to go and looks for them. 

Enjoy your dive

If too rough beware of Sacto syndrome...be safe

If too rough beware of Sacto syndrome...be safe

San Jose syndrome is just as bad. 

If too rough beware of Sacto syndrome...be safe

San Jose syndrome is just as bad.

When did you ever see me dive in bad conditions 

When did you ever see me dive in bad conditions

Don't get your panties in a bunch.  You are very safe.  Why would you think I was talking about you.  [emoji15]

If too rough beware of Sacto syndrome...be safe

San Jose syndrome is just as bad.

We call it Valley Fever

Thanks guys. I have dove in Van Damme and it was very calm with a lot of gorgeous kelp. It was also the first time I had a warden check my stuff while in the water. If it's too rough I won't get in because I don't want to feel responsible for my less experienced friends.

If too rough beware of Sacto syndrome...be safe

San Jose syndrome is just as bad.

hahaha very true I live in Santa rosa now and still have Sacto/SanJo syndrome 

hahaha very true I live in Santa rosa now and still have Sacto/SanJo syndrome

We can always change it to Santa Rosa syndrome.  Have you been able to get a dive in. 

Duane,

Look at Magic Seaweed Shelter Cove this weekend 
Will be there with Silent Hunter Fri-Sun
Just saying

Duane,

Look at Magic Seaweed Shelter Cove this weekend 
Will be there with Silent Hunter Fri-Sun
Just saying

Shelter cove always looks good on magic seaweed until you get there.  The Triton X is this weekend.  You should have entered him.  He would have cleaned up on prizes.