Joan Rock

Best months: Sep–Jan

Protected Area

Kellett Bluff Voluntary No-take

Why dive here

With 35+ marine species recorded in the area - including humpback whales, orcas and seals & sea lions - Joan Rock offers some of Pacific Northwest's richest pinnacle diving. Water ranges 7-17°C, warmest July, August, September.

Best timeSep–Jan

WetsuitA drysuit

Marine lifeHumpback Whales, Orcas and Seals & Sea Lions · 35+ species recorded

Water7-17°C · warmest July, August, September

CharacterPinnacle dive

StandoutDramatic pinnacle topography

Joan Rock, for us, is a consistent standout in the often-moody Pacific Northwest. What makes it special isn’t some massive wreck or an epic wall; it’s the sheer density of small, weird, wonderful life you’ll find tucked into every crevice. We love dropping in on a calm day, slipping down into that emerald green glow, and just hovering. It’s a fantastic site for those who appreciate the smaller stuff. We’ve spent entire dives here simply peering under ledges, spotting countless Yellowleg Pandalids waving their antennae, or trying to tease out a Horned Shrimp from its hiding spot. Keep an eye out for Spotted Ratfish gliding by in the deeper sections, their long tails trailing behind them. On the surface, the seabirds – Marbled Murrelets, Guillemots, Double-crested Cormorants – are a constant, noisy presence, a good reminder of the rich ecosystem above and below. Our tip: go slow, bring a good torch, and be prepared to spend time looking closely. It’s not a site for zooming around; it’s for appreciating the intricate details.