Looking for beginner shore dives in BC

[j.doe]

Hey guys

I realized that it is only a few more days until Cozumel for me, and so have started planning my next vacation. We have a couple newly certified OW diver friends that have not done anything outside of apline lakes. Therefore I am looking for a few great, easy shore dives on the west coast of BC for us to try. The ones that I have done all have significant current and or were done from a boat.

Does anyone have any recommendations. Specifically I am looking for marine live, low current, shallow to moderate depth (under 75') and good vis. Time of year would also be helpfull, as would directions.

Any good local dive shops refs for fills would be great too.

Thanks.

 

[TMHeimer]

Check Canada-Western Canada forum.

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

Porteau Cove Provincial Park ... about 30 minutes drive north of Vancouver, BC. They've got a dive park on the premises with several sunken structures at reasonably shallow depths to explore. There's camping, cabins and yurts available at the park, and motels available about 10 minutes north. Downside is that there aren't much for dive shops nearby ... the closest one I'm aware of is north Vancouver.

Good vis is hit-or-miss anywhere in the PNW ... it's really dependent on weather and tidal conditions, as well as the plankton bloom cycles.

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[kenns]

Whiskey Cove is a nice one. It's good for two dives. On the left is an island to explore and on the right is a wall as you head out around the point. Both are less than 60'. There is very limited road parking, but the shore entry is easy. Lots of docks, so watch for boats. I really liked this one and saw great stuff.

Whytecliff is where a lot of new divers get certified here. It's a nice protected bay. Watch for logs on the beach and in the water. Do some research on this one as there is a potential for some current and depth. I'm new myself and have always gone with a buddy who knows this cove inside and out.

Kerry

 

[Scubajonny]

Check out Tuwanek on the sunshine coast. The water is amazingly clear here and a
lot of life too! Also no current - no long walks with gear either.
Happy to answer any questions about any site in Vancouver or The sunshine coast.
I also own a great cottage in Tuwanek. Check it out - The Scuba Shack.