SCUBA: Exploring the Underwater World of Snohomish County
What do a Spotted Ratfish, a Harbor Seal, and a Lion’s Mane Jelly have in common? These are just some of the creatures you might encounter while SCUBA diving in the waters of Snohomish County. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or hoping to get your first SCUBA certification, SnoCo is the perfect place to explore the magical underwater world of the Salish Sea.
Exploring the Underwater World of the Salish Sea
The Salish Sea may look dark from the surface, but beneath the waves, it's a vibrant world teeming with life. Dive sites throughout Snohomish County offer the chance to explore these unique ecosystems and encounter diverse marine creatures.
Edmonds Underwater Park, located next to the ferry dock in downtown Edmonds, is a SCUBA diver’s dream. It’s a marine protected area, a designated boat-free zone, and a bird sanctuary, making it both an important area for marine conservation and a spectacular dive site. With a unique volunteer-maintained underwater gridline, navigation at this dive site is a breeze. Walk a few blocks south to Edmonds Underwater Sports to purchase a dive site map, which supports the park’s volunteer maintenance.
A little further north, the Mukilteo T Dock is another exciting Snohomish County dive site. At this shore-accessible dive site, you’ll have the chance to swim through an underwater geodesic dome, explore animals making their home on old dock pilings, and maybe even spot an elusive red octopus!
How do I get SCUBA certified in Snohomish County?
It's easier than you might think. With numerous dive shops offering certification courses, you can take the first step toward exploring the underwater world of the Salish Sea right here in Snohomish County.
With initial certification courses that include online book learning and hands-on training, you'll be well-prepared to explore the underwater world. The hands-on portion of the course usually takes around three to five days to complete, and you’ll have the chance to practice your SCUBA skills in a pool before heading out into the Salish Sea with your dive instructor!
Most local dive shops, like Lighthouse Diving Center in Lynnwood, offer weeknight and weekend classes to accommodate all schedules. Once you finish your book learning and practice dives, you’ll be certified to dive up to 60 feet deep anywhere in the world!
Don’t let the cold water scare you! Dive into the waters off the coast of Snohomish County and discover the wonders of Salish Sea SCUBA diving.
Mukilteo
Known for its iconic lighthouse and beautiful beaches, Mukilteo is a scenic waterfront community with stunning views of Possession Sound and the Olympic Mountain range. It is the site where the 185…
Sea’s The Day: 3‑Day Coastal Itinerary
Three days plus a 90-mile coastline equals thousands of photo-ops. The Pacific Northwest offers the perfect range of moderate temperatures and seaside vistas year-round, inviting you to linger outdoors. Make the most…
