| Lone
Ranch
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced Dangers:
Strenuous activity: a good walk from the parking area to the beach,
surf entry, and a swim to the prime diving area. Be alert for
breakers and shore rocks during entry. Divers should always dive
within their limits.
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Dive
Profile: Although
not as initially impressive as Whale's Head or Harris Beach, Lone Ranch
offers some wonderful shore diving. The cove can easily be seen
from the Hwy 101 and a small brown sign marks the road down to the parking
lot. Restrooms and picnic tables are nice luxuries of the site and
the ocean is an easy 50 yard walk from your vehicle. Most diving
takes place from from the rocky shoreline bordering the north end of the
beach. Be careful walking over the rocks and entering through the
surf line. Once your in the water, get ready for some great diving.
The shoreline rocks tumble off into the depths, providing a wonderful
expanse of boulders, holes, and crevices to explore. Kelp, sea bass,
lingcod, rockfish, anemones, and other sea life make a home here.
The area is popular for hunting but we suggest bringing your camera just
in case. If the vis is good the photography is fantastic.
The unassuming character of Lone Ranch hides an active and colorful underwater
community. Make a dive, bring a picnic, and walk the beach...there's
nothing better on a weekend afternoon.Directions: Lone Ranch is just south of Whale's Head and within 15 minutes north of Brookings, along Hwy 101. Look for the road signs pointing the way down to the beach. |