Heddington Reef - Pacific Northwest

Vasoff Reef holds a special place for us, a spot we often suggest when someone asks about a truly good GBR dive without the usual crowds. It’s not about grand swim-throughs or huge pelagics here; Vasoff shines with its intricate coral structures. We’re talking about massive Turbinaria coral formations that spiral upwards, alongside sprawling fields of bowl and staghorn corals. The way the light filters through these creates incredible shadows, especially mid-morning. Look closely, and you’ll find Lamarck's Porcelain Crabs clinging to anemones or the tiny, perpetually surprised Eye-lash Harptail-Blenny peeking from a crevice. We’ve had some fantastic encounters with Spangled Emperors cruising past and watched Longnose Butterflyfish pick their way through the coral. It's a site that rewards slow, observant diving. Best time to visit is on a calm day; the visibility really opens up then, and you can appreciate the scale of the reef. We'd suggest this site for photographers or anyone who simply wants to immerse themselves in a vibrant, healthy coral ecosystem without the usual rush.

Location
Pacific Northwest, United States, North America
Coordinates
48.890960, -125.473090
Type
reef

Best Time to Dive in Pacific Northwest

The warmest water temperatures in Pacific Northwest occur in August, averaging 16.5°C (up to 15.6°C). The coolest conditions are in February at 6.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 7.1°C (air: 6.3°C)
  • February: 6.9°C (air: 4.5°C)
  • March: 7.7°C (air: 6.6°C)
  • April: 9.5°C (air: 8.7°C)
  • May: 12.0°C (air: 11.7°C)
  • June: 14.0°C (air: 13.7°C)
  • July: 15.7°C (air: 14.9°C)
  • August: 16.5°C (air: 15.7°C)
  • September: 14.3°C (air: 14.0°C)
  • October: 11.4°C (air: 10.5°C)
  • November: 8.8°C (air: 7.4°C)
  • December: 7.7°C (air: 5.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Pacific Northwest

Nearest Dive Centres to Heddington Reef

Marine Life in Pacific Northwest

Home to 38 recorded species including 18 reef fish, 7 crabs & lobsters, 3 whales & dolphins, 2 sharks & rays, 2 clams & mussels, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Heddington Reef

Based on average water temperature of 11.0°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 11°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories