Visibility in a kelp forest averages 25 to 45 feet, but can be as low as 5 feet or as high as 100 feet depending on weather and other conditions. Fortunately, high visibility is not always necessary to appreciate these areas because they are rich with stationary and slow moving invertebrates such as anemones, sponges, and starfish.

Entanglements are a significant hazard when diving in kelp, which easily catches fin straps and cylinder valves. The most appropriate response is to locate and free the entanglement. But if necessary, you can break it by bending its stalk until it snaps, or cutting it with your dive knife.