Pacific Northwest, United States

    Obstruction Reef

    Best months: Sep–Jan

    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.

    Best timeSep–Jan
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeHumpback Whales, Orcas and Seals & Sea Lions · 35+ species recorded
    Water7-17°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterReef dive

    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.

    Today06:4317:4911h 6m daylightGolden hour 17:06

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    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)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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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