Joan Rock - Pacific Northwest

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.

Location
Pacific Northwest, United States, North America
Coordinates
48.690000, -123.316666
Type
pinnacle

Marine Protected Area: Kellett Bluff Voluntary No-take

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 Joan Rock

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 Joan Rock

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