The boat ramp at Depoe Bay is a good place to check gear out before diving offshore. If conditions are lousy, you can spend an enjoyable hour searching around underwater for cast off junk from the industries that have occupied the world’s smallest harbor.
Site Highlights:
Even though the site is shallow, you can enjoy some time underwater here testing out gear. There is a fair amount of junk underwater left from the old businesses that used to be around the harbor.
Nearest Town:
The boat ramp is right in the middle of Depoe Bay.
GPS Coordinates:
Special Directions to Site:
From US101, take Schoolhouse Street east and then then turn left onto Shell Avenue. The boat ramp and parking are right at the end of the road.
Parking:
There usually is plenty of parking here. Just make sure not to occupy boat trailer parking. We haven’t had to pay here before but double check the signs to make sure something hasn’t changed.
The boat ramp is a bit cramped and shallow. You could explore more to the north although there is a lot of junk underwater and some old line.
Site Orientation:
Head south to get out of the water. Head north in search of deeper water. We suggest you stay out from underneath the boats. Along the western edge of the harbor there is a lot of junk underwater. Don’t get entangled in anything!
Entrances and Exits:
You can get in right at the boat ramp or over the little jetty to the right of the boat ramp. It’s an easy entrance/exit.
Salt/Fresh:
This is a salt water dive.
Shore/Boat:
This is a shore dive.
Normal Conditions:
Depoe Bay is very protected once you’re inside the channel. Watch out for boat traffic. It isn’t a bad idea to have someone on the shore to let boaters know you’re underwater. This harbor is pretty tight to fly a dive flag but it isn’t a bad idea. We have a favorite flag we use all over Oregon on our Gear We Use page.
Normal Visibility:
Usually you’ll get 5-10 feet of viz here. The bottom can get stirred up especially on the right side of the dive site where the little creek comes into the harbor.
Normal Temperature:
It can be between 45 and 65F depending on the time of year and how shallow you go.
Best Time of Year:
Water conditions are usually better in the winter than summer but you can dive this site at any time of year.
Max Depth:
If you go north far enough, you might find 20 feet of water but usually you’re going to be in about 10 feet of water. Buoyancy control is critical here.
Suggested Special Training:
Open water divers can dive here but be careful with underwater entanglement hazards and sunken machinery. It’s a good idea to carry a good dive knife and line cutter.
Difficulty of Dive:
This is a pretty easy dive but be careful of entanglement hazards. Boat traffic can also be an issue.
Distance of Walk to Entrance:
50 feet is usual but 150 feet could happen if you have to park a ways away.
Surface Swim Length:
No real surface swim is necessary here.
Special Site Notes:
Be careful of underwater entanglement hazards. Also watch for boat traffic.
Closest Local Dive Shops to Get Air Fills and SCUBA Gear:
There used to be a dive shop in Depoe Bay but it was in the process of closing when we were last at this site (February 2017). However, they may still be giving air fills.
Otherwise, you need to head up to Astoria, down to Port Orford, or inland to Portland, Salem, or Eugene to get an air fill and have gear serviced.
Nearby Restaurants We Like:
Tidal Raves has absolutely outstanding food and a great ocean view. Gracie’s Sea Hag has the best clam chowder on the entire Oregon coast.
Nearby Places to Camp and Diver-Friendly Hotels:
South of Depoe Bay is Beverly Beach State Park where there is good camping. We haven’t tried any of the hotels in the area so please let us know if you have stayed at one that is SCUBA friendly!
What Other People Have to Say About This Site:
Please write in the comments below your experiences with this dive site!