Sanso,
If you don't wish to dive at dusk or at night, then a spot to try in Santa Cruz is the kelp bed just south of the light house and the surf spot called Steamer Lane. Because of the energetic swell wrapping the lighthouse point, the reef rocks are kept reasonably clear of being drowned by sand. Stay south of the surfers so you don't get banged into.
But I still recommend Monterey and offer geology 101 as explanation of why:
The north end of Monterey Bay around Santa Cruz is usually very murky; like 3 to 6 feet viz (1-2m).
This remains true as you move further north because the geologic materials of the shoreline are soft mudstone/sandstone and all the coastal sediment travels south and dumps into the depths of the Bay. The shoreline of the Bay is all sand. Because the Bay swallows the sediment, the south end stays clearer; like 6 to 40 feet viz. Also the bedrock of Monterey Peninsula is granite and decomposes into very course sand that does not become suspended by the surf. Because of the clear water and good light the kelp forests in Monterey are spectacular and attract lots of sea life. The Monterey/Carmel peninsula offers protection from the rough surf on at least one side at any given time, so there is almost always a good condition nearby. There are many recommendable sites here. Butterfly House is one of my favorites, but a bit hidden near the Carmel State Beach river mouth. Warning: avoid Monestery Beach in Carmel unless you want to donate your equipment, or your life, or are very experienced with the location.
I will be home the evenings of the 20th and 21st, then off to Kona.
Maybe I could squeeze some time in then if you want to dive Santa Cruz. I could also lend you some lead if you like.
David
