It would be nice to have warm tropic waters, but we really can't complain. Socal water isn't really that cold. In a 7mm and a hooded vest, I can't say I've ever been that cold. Plus dry suits are a pain in the butt, too much work (sometimes), can't just hose them off and hang them up like a wetsuit.
Yeah........I used to say the same thing about dry suits. Until I got one.
Now, I just can't bring myself to be 'cold and wet' in 52 F. water, when I could be 'warm and dry.'
Dive safe,
Mikey
"Blessed are they who learn from their mistakes. For they shall make, if not necessarily fewer of them, different and more interesting ones."