Best for advanced divers, 2-18m, shore entry, mild current.
Kasitsna Bay Laboratory provides a cold-water shore entry featuring a diverse mix of reef, kelp forest, seagrass, and artificial reef structures. Depths range from 2 to 18 metres with mild currents. Divers and snorkellers may encounter Giant Pacific Octopus, King Crab, and various nudibranchs including Monterey and Nanaimo Dorids. Sea stars, such as the Sunflower and Leather Star, are also common. Due to the 4C to 10C water temperatures, drysuits are required. Hazards include surf, shore break, and rip currents at the entry point, alongside potential kelp entanglement. Visibility is highly variable, making a dive light and surface marker buoy essential equipment for all divers.
59.46770, -151.55210
Given the variable visibility and cold water, carry a surface marker buoy and a dive light even in daylight. Check conditions at the entry point before gearing up, as surf and rip currents can change quickly along this stretch of shore.
Located near Seldovia, across Kachemak Bay from Homer. Laboratory and support facilities are available to approved researchers from academic and government institutions.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 18m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
4-10°C
Current
Mild
Divers frequently record King Crabs, sea stars, and shrimp. Other species include the Monterey Dorid, Nanaimo Dorid, and occasionally the Giant Pacific Octopus or Lumpfish.
No, this site is rated for advanced divers due to the cold water, variable visibility, and the technical requirements of managing surf and rip currents during shore entry.
The site features depths ranging from 2 to 18 metres.
This is a shore entry site. Divers should be prepared for surf and shore break conditions.
Yes, the site is open to both diving and snorkelling, though the cold water temperatures require appropriate thermal protection for both activities.
Diving at Kasitsna Bay Laboratory in Seldovia requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced, Nitrox, Technical, Wreck, Cavern, Cave, Deep, Trimix, Rebreather, Full Cave, Divemaster. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Kasitsna Bay Laboratory in Seldovia. Water temperatures range from 4°C to 10°C.
Kasitsna Bay Laboratory in Seldovia typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
