A subtidal study of the benthic flora and substrate relief was conducted within the kelp bed off Del Monte Beach, near Monterey Harbor, Monterey, California. The study was carried out by utilizing scuba equipment, aerial photography, and ocean wave refraction/numerical computer programs. A preliminary analysis of the mapped data indicated that the frequency and density of five defined algal groups varied in relation to certain types of substrate. Aerial photographic interpretations revealed yearly variations in the kelp bed surface canopy. Theoretically derived refraction computations along a wave energy gradient were consistent with some observed changes in kelp bed species distribution.