Island Rock (also called Whale Island) is a premier offshore dive destination within the Oregon Islands Wilderness. The site features rugged basalt formations, strong currents, and exceptional biodiversity including kelp gardens, rockfish, and sea lion encounters. Less than 30 minutes by boat from Port Orford.
Difficulty
Advanced
Max Depth
24m
Type
Boat
Typical Visibility
8m
Conditions Summary
Best time today
7PM - 10PM
GREAT
Best day in forecast
Tuesday
GREAT
2026-03-10
Community-reported visibility
n/a
Warnings for today
Strong winds expected
Rain expected - bacteria levels may increase
Dive site on EAST side of Island Rock, in the lee of dominant W/NW/WNW swell. The island mass blocks direct western swell. SW/S swell diffracts around with moderate reduction. E swell would hit directly but is rare on Oregon coast.