Island Rock (also called Whale Island) is a premier offshore dive destination within the Oregon Islands Wilderness. The site features rugged basalt formations, strong currents, and exceptional biodiversity including kelp gardens, rockfish, and sea lion encounters. Less than 30 minutes by boat from Port Orford.
Difficulty
Advanced
Max Depth
80 ft
Type
Boat
Typical Visibility
25 ft
Conditions Summary
Best time today
8PM - 10PM
FAIR
Best day in forecast
Tuesday
FAIR
2026-02-03
Community-reported visibility
n/a
Warnings for today
High waves expected today
Strong surge expected today
Strong winds expected today
Dive site on EAST side of Island Rock, in the lee of dominant W/NW/WNW swell. The island mass blocks direct western swell. SW/S swell diffracts around with moderate reduction. E swell would hit directly but is rare on Oregon coast.
