Oregon has a number of sweet spots along its coast, and diving Port Orford is just one of the ways you can enjoy them. Modern divers have been exploring its underwater secrets since the 1950s and, of course, the Native community have inhabited the region for thousands of years.
Teeming with Life
The kelp beds and rocky reef habitats are filled with ocean creatures of all shapes and sizes. This dive area is well known for its spearfishing and abundant collectable marine life. Multiple species of rockfish and lingcod thrive in these waters. Many invertebrates like coral, sea stars, sea cucumbers, sponges, octopus, crab, and record-setting red abalone can be found when visibility conditions are good.
Make sure to practice ethical collection when when diving Port Orford. Know and respect the restricted areas and permits needed for fishing and collection here just as you do your hometown dive spots. This will ensure the marine life we all love will exist for your future visits and for generations to come.
Port Orford Jetty and Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve
Even beginning divers can try a trip from the jetty in town. The north end is reported to have good structure for housing marine life with a sandy bottom extending 40 feet. Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve south of town is also a rewarding location. It is a protected site so there are restrictions regarding marine life and usage.
Scuba Diving Support
A scuba fill station opened last year in Port Orford to support both recreational and research divers. As diving has become increasingly more popular in the area, local leaders realized the benefit a fill station would have for ecotourism in the community. A dive flag will be flown over the OSU field station in Port Orford when fill service is available, or you can call 541-366-2500 to arrange an air fill.
Conditions and Gear
Diving Port Orford may be most enjoyable for intermediate skill levels or experienced beginners looking for the next level of challenge. Divers can access sites from shore, kayak, or powerboats that are lowered into the water by crane. Water visibility can be up to 10 feet and as little as 6 inches. Dive site depths can range from 5 to 35 feet. Water temperatures hover around 50F and full wetsuits are recommended. As always, contact the local dive shops and coast authorities like The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for current conditions and restrictions.
There are a few diving clubs and groups in the Port Orford Area that may provide you with the local scoop. State park offices are always a solid source of information. The closest outdoor gear shops are as far away as Bandon or Gold Beach, so make sure your equipment is in good condition. Then suit up and see what you can find!
