Patey Rock - Pacific Northwest

Patey Rock is one of those spots that really reminds you why we dive the PNW. It’s a pinnacle, a big ol' rock rising from the deep, and the current can really whip around it. We’d suggest hitting it on a slack tide if you can manage the timing. Dive it right, and you're surrounded by schools of Pacific herring so dense they shimmer, twisting and turning like a liquid wall. Chinook salmon often cruise through, sleek and powerful, alongside the occasional spiny dogfish. Our favourite part has to be looking for the smaller stuff tucked into the cracks and crevices. You’ll find patches of star ascidians, like tiny, glowing jewels, and if you’re patient, a giant octopus might just be peeking out from its lair. Keep an eye out for sunflower stars making their way across the rock face, their many arms gently pulling them along. The eelgrass beds around the base are home to dungeness crabs scuttling past. It’s a site that rewards slow, careful observation, perfect for divers who appreciate the subtle beauty of temperate waters and don't mind a bit of a current challenge.

Location
Pacific Northwest, United States, North America
Coordinates
48.700000, -123.520000
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 Patey 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 Patey 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