Wain 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 - Wain 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

Wain Rock is one of those spots that just keeps giving. We’ve had some truly fantastic dives here, often feeling like we’ve stumbled into a forgotten corner of the Pacific Northwest. It’s a pinnacle, dropping away into deeper water, which usually means some decent current. That current, though, is exactly what brings in the action. You’re constantly surrounded by movement. Huge schools of Pacific herring shimmer past, reflecting the available light in a way that just fills your mask. We love finding the big Chinook salmon cruising through them, sleek and powerful. Keep your eyes peeled for the smaller stuff too, like the adorable Four-Spined Squat Lobsters tucked into crevices, or the sneaky Plainfin Midshipmen lying in wait. And don't forget the Slender Blade Shrimp, they're everywhere if you look closely. Visibility can be a typical PNW green, but when it clears, the sheer density of life is astounding. Our pick for an insider tip? Go at slack. The currents can rip here, but if you time it right, you can really explore the nooks and crannies without being swept away. This spot is brilliant for photographers, or anyone who just wants to soak in the bustling, often dramatic, energy of the Salish Sea.