Moss Point Beach Is For Divers In Laguna Beach

LAGUNA BEACH, CA—Moss Point Beach is treacherous for swimmers, but that’s precisely what attracts skin and scuba divers. A rocky bottom and prehistoric-looking stone formations reach from the cliffs into the sea. Rough waves concentrate their power and break onto the shore to steal the sand. So much so, that signs warn those about to descend the access steps that there may be a prohibitively steep drop-off. But the last step is no longer a doozy, as sturdy wooden steps now augment the cement ones.

On a recent weekday morning before the marine layer burned off, a young mother and her toddler had no problem reaching the sand. A local with coffee mug in hand strolled by. A man sat on the ledges having a snack while checking his phone. Everyone nodded politely to one another.

There was, however, no evidence of divers, their gear or even scuba classes, which are permitted after 7 a.m. but must end by 10 a.m. in the busy summer months.

The scuba rules at Moss Point are for safety and courtesy—to beachgoers and nearby homeowners. For the former, “You must have a buddy, buoyancy compensation, mask, snorkel and fins.” As for courtesy, a sign devoted to “Diver Etiquette” enumerates ways to keep diving open in Laguna Beach: stow unused equipment rather than blocking access, be courteous when using night lights, keep noise to a minimum, and enter and exit the water over sandy areas rather than the rocky points.

Good scuba etiquette benefits the neighbors who live at the corner of Moss Street and Ocean Way in a wooden house aptly named The Ark.

Designed by architect Jean L. Egasse circa 1923, the eclectic charmer truly looks like a boat. It was built for the Uttleys of Pasadena, according to Kathleen Les, who compiled an historic resources inventory on Ocean Way for California’s Department of Parks & Recreation. Ms. Les interviewed Laurie Fitzgerrell for the 1981 report, which states that the Fitzgerrell and Booth families bought The Ark in 1936.

Though the families no longer own The Ark, they did enjoy the whimsical, impeccably crafted "boat house" for decades.

When taking a look-see, be sure to practice good etiquette. Avoid gawking.

Don't forget to take a peek at The Ark from the cove below. Only the smallest of creatures could make it up those steps two-by-two.