South Jetty

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Dive Type: Shore

Experience Level: Beginning to Intermediate

Dangers: Most bay dives should be made during slack tide. Proximity of the South Jetty to the channel exposes divers to tidal currents. Visibility can be low. Always take a compass bearing before entering the water.

Dive Profile: A great dive on the south side. The site is easy to find and you can drive right up to the entry point. A large paved parking lot makes access a breeze. To the north and south of the lot are two large bays with great beaches. To start your dive walk up to the dock and carefully climb down the rocks on the north side. If you go sightseeing around the dock be respectful of the crabbers above. If you wish to swim a little ways you'll find a sunken jetty beneath the two channel navigation markers. The dock and jetty provide a home for Gapers and Crab. If you're thinking about some clam chowder this is the place to start. You can fill your bag in no time with a good digging tool and a little current to blow away sand while you excavate. Just make sure you dive the tide at the right time. Take a GOOD LIGHT WITH YOU if you want to see the natives.

Directions: Take $3 out of your pocket and place it in your lap. From Florence take Hwy 101 South across the bridge and drive 1/2 mile to the South Jetty turnoff. Drive a short distance until you come across the little red ranger station. Look down at your lap, grab the $3, and place it in the friendly outstretched hand of the Forest Service Ranger. In return you'll receive a parking pass for the South Jetty Dunes area. From the little red ranger station drive 4.9 miles down the main road to the South Jetty. The parking lot and dock will be just off to the right. For more detailed directions check out Yahoo! Maps.