Wain Rock - Pacific Northwest

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.

Location
Pacific Northwest, United States, North America
Coordinates
48.688330, -123.488335
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 Wain 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 Wain 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