

Best for intermediate divers, 6-24m, shore entry, strong current.
Iron Mine Bay at Race Rocks offers a shore-access dive and snorkel experience featuring a pebble beach entry leading to a reef and kelp forest. The site is suited for intermediate divers due to strong currents, surge, and potential rip currents. Depths range from 6 to 24 metres, with an average of 15 metres. Visibility varies significantly between 3 and 12 metres. Water temperatures remain cold throughout the year, ranging from 8C to 11C. Divers and snorkellers should be prepared for cold water, entanglement risks in kelp, and surf conditions. Facilities at the site include parking and toilets.
48.32460, -123.71580
The hike down to the water is long and considered difficult for scuba divers carrying gear.
Access via the Pike Road parking lot in East Sooke Park. Follow the wide trail downhill for approximately 3km roundtrip to reach the rocky beach area.
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-24m
Visibility
3-12m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
8-11°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
45 min
No, this site is rated for intermediate skill levels due to strong currents, surge, and potential rip currents.
The site ranges from 6 to 24 metres in depth, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Iron Mine Bay is a shore-access site, entered via a pebble beach.
Yes, Iron Mine Bay is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
Hazards include cold water, deep water, entanglement in kelp, low visibility, rip currents, strong currents, surf, and surge.
Diving at Iron Mine Bay in Sooke requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Iron Mine Bay in Sooke. Water temperatures range from 8°C to 11°C.
Iron Mine Bay in Sooke can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Iron Mine Bay in Sooke typically ranges from 3 metres to 12 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.