Obstruction Reef
Why dive here
With 35+ marine species recorded in the area - including humpback whales, orcas and seals & sea lions - Obstruction Reef offers some of Pacific Northwest's richest reef diving. Water ranges 7-17°C, warmest July, August, September.
Obstruction Reef, up in the Pacific Northwest, isn't your typical tropical coral show, but it’s got its own rugged appeal. We’ve found it’s a spot that truly shines during late spring and early summer when the herring and eulachon run. The action can be incredible then, with gray whales often patrolling the deeper edges, and you’ll see the sea floor carpeted with sunflower stars and those big geoducks. The currents here can push you around a bit, especially on a stronger tide, so it’s definitely a dive for those comfortable with a bit of a ride. Expect to see some hefty California spot prawns and maybe even a giant octopus tucked into a crevice if you look closely.
Safety Notes
Cold water this month (avg 11°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Reviews for Obstruction Reef
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Obstruction Reef
Obstruction Reef Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Obstruction Reef, sourced from NOAA NDBC + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: 9449880 - Friday Harbor, WA (27km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
11°C
53°F · Range: 9.6–11.4°C
Air Temperature
11°C
51°F
Current Speed
3.16 cm/s
Direction: E (108.4°)
Salinity
23.61 PSU
Wind Speed
1.8 m/s
3.5 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1018.3 hPa
Based on 5 years of monitoring data · Data sources: NOAA NDBC + Copernicus Marine (EU)
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