The tide runs rapidly here, up to 7 kts, and smaller yachts might be unable to make progress at all if attempting to enter against a Spring ebb. However by keeping to the extreme left (within 15 metres of the western mole) the ebb will be reduced to about 4 knots. Then leave the 3 port hand buoys just to starboard to keep out of the worst of the ebb.
You can usually enter any time on the flood, but pay attention as 7kts of tide can quickly sweep you onto one of the channel markers. If the flood is very turbulent quieter water may be found just to the West of the red buoys.
When departing, the best time is slack water or just before, against the very last of the flood. Do not attempt to leave on a strong ebb if there is an onshore wind, as the overfalls at the entrance can be severe.
Be aware of the large area of shallow water off the SW point of the entrance – do not cut the corner when approaching from the West or departing to the West. Approaching from the west the sand spit extends almost three quarters of a mile in a SE direction out from the sandbank about a mile from the entrance. Use the plotter to keep sufficiently offshore for the last two miles, takign care if there are orcas about to stay within 20m depth, then approach the entrance using a transit of the green and white beacon on the end of the eastern mole in line with Santa Maria light house.
If concerned about orcas, it is also worth noting that the seabed drops off very rapidly, going from 10m depth to 40m depth in a couple of boat lengths. Orca have been seen here close inshore, just off the underwater cliff edge.
If only stopping overnight a useful and peaceful anchorage North of the first green buoy is marked on Navionics.