Shaw's Cove

Entering and exiting the water is generally safe and easy, provided there is no high surf. To ensure a smooth experience, please check the forecast and conditions beforehand. The entry point is sandy and flat, offering a gentle transition into the water, and the kick-out is also relatively easy and short.

Be prepared for some of the toughest stairs you'll encounter, leading down from the parking area to the beach. Make sure you're physically ready to carry your gear up and down these stairs.

Shaw's Cove is teeming with a variety of marine creatures. Expect to see lobsters, sheepheads, Garibaldi, senoritas, bat rays, sand bass, sculpin, and even giant black sea bass. The protected status of the cove ensures a thriving population of these species, making every dive a spectacular encounter.

The reef at Shaw's Cove is rich with crevices and intricate structures, perfect for exploration. The best diving spots are typically around the "outer edges" of these rock formations, where you can discover hidden marine life and interesting geological features. So take your time to explore! Shaw's Cove also offers a great kelp forest areas. The site is fairly shallow averaging in the 20-30ft range for most of the dive, with a maximum depth of around 45-50ft allowing for long bottom times. It can get very surgy in the crevices, so be careful.

Arrive Early! Parking can be tricky as it is along the streets in the neighborhood. Spaces fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

There are no facilities at Shaw's Cove, but you can walk over to the bathrooms at Crescent Bay.

Moderate to high, especially on weekends and during summer months. Early mornings offer the best chance for a less crowded experience. The site is popular with both divers and snorkelers, with the highest concentration of people usually found near the entry point.

Watch for surge in narrow crevices and swim-throughs, which can be powerful even on calm days. During entry and exit, be cautious of slippery rocks and sea urchins. Surface swimmers and snorkelers are common near shore, so deploy a dive flag when surfacing. Check tide charts, as low tide can make entry and exit challenging due to exposed rocks.