reef

Log This Dive

Heddington Reef

Heddington Reef, way up in the Pacific Northwest, is one of those places that reminds you why cold water diving is so special. Forget your typical colourful corals, this is a masterclass in green and gold. We love slipping into the cool embrace here, especially when the light filters down, making the kelp forest just glow. It’s not about huge pelagics or delicate reef fish; it’s about the sheer abundance and the resilience of life in these waters. Drifting through the swaying kelp, you’re almost guaranteed to spot Red Rock Crabs scuttling over the rocks, their shells a deep, vivid red against the muted greens. Keep an eye out for the Flashlight fish, sometimes called Plainfin Midshipman, tucked away in crevices, their bioluminescence a neat trick to catch at depth. While the salmon runs are seasonal, even outside of peak times, you’ll find plenty of Blue Seaperch and sometimes a curious Spotted Ratfish gliding past. The star ascidians here are particularly impressive, forming dense, almost alien colonies on the rock faces. This site really suits divers who appreciate a slower pace, who enjoy seeking out the small details and the unique textures of a temperate reef. It’s a photographer’s dream if you’re into macro and wide-angle without needing bright colours. Expect chilly water, usually around 8-12°C, so a drysuit is definitely our preferred gear.