Best for intermediate divers, 9-30m, shore entry, mild current.
Smitty's Cove is a protected shore-access site in Southcentral, United States, featuring an underwater dive park. The topography includes sunken wreckage such as a plane and a crane, alongside artificial reef balls. Divers can expect depths ranging from 9 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres. Conditions are consistently cold, with water temperatures between 4 and 10 degrees Celsius, necessitating drysuit certification and thermal protection. Visibility varies significantly, ranging from 0 to 21 metres, and currents are generally mild. The site is suitable for intermediate divers, and typical dives last approximately 50 minutes. Facilities at the site include parking and toilets.
60.77830, -148.66480
The site becomes difficult to dive from late May to early September due to stream runoff.
Located in Whittier, Alaska. Access requires driving through the Whittier Tunnel, which has a $13 toll and operates on a single-direction schedule. Parking must be paid for via the Passport Parking app.
Recorded at this site
Depth
9-30m
Visibility
0-21m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the cold water conditions and variable visibility.
The site ranges from 9 to 30 metres in depth, with an average depth of 18 metres.
Smitty's Cove is a shore-access dive site.
Yes, the site has a snorkel rating of 4 out of 5.
The main hazards are the cold water temperatures and the potential for low visibility.
Diving at Smitty's Cove in Whittier requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
The best months to visit Smitty's Cove in Whittier are January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Smitty's Cove in Whittier typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Smitty's Cove in Whittier can reach up to 21 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.
