Question

Any tips on entering from the shore?

Answer 1

Know where you are in the tide cycle.

Plan for current, and once in the water make a good determination of how fast and what direction.

I watch my compass closely during shore dives but sometimes you just need to surface to see where you are.

I have straps I use for attaching items to my BCD if I have a long walk (for example parking lot to beach)

Answer 2

First check tide tables and be sure to enter the water at slack high tide

Answer 3

I usually enter with my mask on and snorkel in my mouth, holding my fins, BCD should also be full of air (so you can stay on the surface). I put my fins on when i'm about waste deep in the water (you should be able to still stand, but also be able to float in the water so you can put your fins on) I use the snorkel to see what i'm doing in the water and not waste my air. Once your fins are on, you can start swimming on the surface to get farther out before finding a good spot to descend.

other tips: It is best to do a shore dive from somewhere you may have swam at before, just so you know a little more about the area. Otherwise, be sure to pick out a good land marker so you can remember where you entered from, and have a good idea of which way the current is flowing so that you have an idea of where you'll end up going (bring a compass).

Answer 4

Mostly common sense. I prefer a gradual sandy entry. If it is a rocky steeper drop off, try to ascertain that beforehand. That is not all bad, so long as you know about it and the right spot to enter. Obviously, better if no surf or light waves. A clean water area too...no waste in the water. Think about your return too. Will it be to the same spot? Assuming so, is it suitable for the return.

Comments

I would collect some tips from others if the entrance is tricky.
In case this is not a regulated shore, make sure someone knows where you are, when you are entering and when you expected to finish.
Make sure you know where the nearest medic is in case you’ll need one.
Make sure you have water nearby.
In night divides, make sure you know this shore. If possible leave a car with small lights on so you can come out at the right place. If its not possible you can use some stick lights.