

Best for intermediate divers, 11-30m, shore entry, mild current.
Copper Cove Road at Whytecliff Park offers a shore-entry dive featuring a rocky beach and a sheltered cove. The site consists of a reef and kelp forest environment with depths ranging from 11 to 30 metres, averaging 20 metres. Divers frequently encounter harbour seals and ochre sea stars, while leather stars and rock crabs are also common. Rarer sightings include California sea lions, king crabs, and various nudibranch species like Monterey and Nanaimo dorids. Visibility typically fluctuates between 5 and 20 metres, with mild currents. Divers should be aware of surge and local boat traffic. The site is best suited for intermediate divers, with typical dive times around 45 minutes.
49.37833, -123.27982
The stairs are less daunting than those at Whytecliff, and the site is often quiet.
Take the Upper Levels Highway to Horseshoe Bay, turn left on Bay Street, left on Nelson Ave, right on Marine Ave, and follow to the intersection with Copper Cove Road.
Recorded at this site
Depth
11-30m
Visibility
5-20m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
7-15°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Divers regularly encounter harbour seals and ochre sea stars. Other species recorded include leather stars, rock crabs, kelp pipefish, and occasional sightings of California sea lions, king crabs, and nudibranchs.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the specific conditions and depth profile.
The depth ranges from 11 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Yes, access is via a shore entry from a rocky beach reached by a set of stairs.
Yes, the site has a snorkel rating of 3 out of 5.
Diving at Copper Cove Road in Horseshoe Bay requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Copper Cove Road in Horseshoe Bay. Water temperatures range from 7°C to 15°C.
Copper Cove Road in Horseshoe Bay typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Copper Cove Road in Horseshoe Bay typically ranges from 5 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.