Seattle is known for its iconic Space Needle, thriving tech industry, and bustling fish markets, but it also holds a lesser-known title: a premier cold-water diving destination in the heart of Puget Sound. The emerald-green waters of Puget Sound offer an incredible variety of marine life and beautiful dive options for sport divers, technical divers and freedivers. Combine the plentiful wildlife with tons of convenient dive sites and a dedicated local diving community, and it is clear why Seattle is a must-dive local. I was lucky enough to live in Seattle for many years, and my favorite part of living here was loading up my dive gear in the trunk before work and heading out for a shore dive as soon as the workday was done.
Why Dive in Puget Sound?
Seattle and Puget Sound boast a wide array of dive sites that cater to both beginners and advanced divers, as well as many great spots to freedive. The nutrient-rich waters provide a haven for marine life, creating thriving green-water ecosystems. Divers can encounter everything from macro creatures like spiny lumpsuckers to large critters like sea lions, wolf eels and giant pacific octopus.
One of the unique draws of Seattle’s diving scene is the accessibility. Most dive sites can be accessed by shore diving. With sites offering opportunities for night diving, wreck exploration, crab harvesting, freediving and much more, Puget Sound is a cold-water diver’s dream.
Top Dive Sites in Seattle and Puget Sound
Cove 2 (Alki Beach)
Cove 2 is one of the most popular dive sites on the West Coast. Located in West Seattle, it’s known for its easy entry and abundant marine life. Divers can spot giant Pacific octopuses, some with heads as large as beach balls, and even female octopuses guarding their eggs. While here I once found three giant octopus all together below an artificial reef, and on another dive, I was lucky enough to see a mother octopus with her eggs. Night dives here are particularly exciting, as harbor seals often use divers’ lights to hunt fish.
The Junkyard
Located near Cove 2, the Junkyard is another unique dive site. Despite its name, this site’s debris-filled bottom is a treasure trove for marine life. Expect to see wolf eels, stubby squid, spiny lumpsuckers, and even the occasional skate. The variety of critters makes this site a favorite for underwater photographers.
Edmonds Underwater Park
Situated north of Seattle, Edmonds Underwater Park is possibly home to some of the largest fish on the West Coast. This shallow site is accessible to both scuba divers and freedivers, offering a chance to observe oversized cabezon, rockfish and lingcod, among many others. The abundance of marine life here feels like stepping into an underwater world from long ago.
Mukilteo (T-Dock)
Mukilteo is another favorite site, particularly for those interested in collecting crabs. Red rock crabs and Dungeness crabs are plentiful beneath the old dock, making it a popular spot for harvesting. Just make sure you follow the state rules and regulations for crabbing. The dive site also features a mix of sandy bottoms and rocky outcrops, attracting a variety of fish and invertebrates.
Marine Life in Puget Sound
Seattle’s cold, green waters are brimming with marine life. Some of the creatures you might encounter include:
- Giant Pacific Octopus: The largest octopus species in the world, often found hiding in dens or out hunting.
- Harbor Seals and Sea Lions: These curious and cute mammals often approach divers, especially during night dives.
- Spiny Lumpsuckers: Tiny and colorful, these quirky fish are a delight for macro photographers.
- Wolf Eels: Long and snake-like, these gentle giants are often spotted in rocky crevices.
- Dungeness Crabs and Scallops: Common in the area, they provide opportunities for sustainable harvesting.
Diving with Local Centers
The Seattle area is home to several excellent dive centers that provide training, equipment rentals, and guided dives. Here are a few to consider:
- Lighthouse Diving: Known for their friendly staff and comprehensive training programs, they cater to divers of all levels.
- Silent World Diving: Specializing in cold-water diving, they offer guided dives and equipment tailored to Puget Sound conditions.
- Eight Diving: A newer addition to the Seattle diving community, Eight Diving is quickly gaining a reputation for high-quality training and support for technical diving enthusiasts.
Tips for Cold-Water Diving in Seattle
- Gear Up for the Cold: A dry suit is highly recommended for comfort in Seattle’s chilly waters. Pair it with thick gloves, a hood, and layered undergarments. A thick wetsuit will also work, but especially in the winter months a drysuit is preferred.
- Master Buoyancy Control: Navigating rocky or debris-filled bottoms and delicate marine environments requires excellent buoyancy skills. This becomes especially true during periods of high current.
- Check the Tides: Puget Sound is heavily influenced by tidal forces. Plan your dives accordingly to avoid strong currents.
- Dive with a Guide: Local SDI guides from local dive centers can help you make the most of your dives and navigate the best spots.
Plan Your Diving Adventure
Seattle offers some of the most unique cold-water diving experiences in the world. Whether you’re exploring the depths of Edmonds Underwater Park, searching for giant Pacific octopuses at Cove 2, or harvesting Dungeness crabs in Mukilteo, Puget Sound promises adventure and discovery. Connect with local dive centers to gear up, book a guide, or take a certification course to prepare for these unforgettable underwater experiences.
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