Scuba diving is only fun in warm water, right? Wrong! Scuba is an incredibly freeing experience, so why limit yourself to warm water or the warm season? Break out the hoods or get that dry suit certification so you can experience the clearer waters, new travel locations, and different wildlife that comes with the new temperatures and territory.

If you’re looking for increased chances of spotting sea lions, seals, sharks, or rays, this should be on your list. Kelp forests abound, so be sure to bring a dive knife in case you get tangled. The scenery of these towering stalks is breaktaking and the visibility is almost always amazing. The water might be cold year round, but the stunning views and greater chances of seeing large sea creatures makes it well worth the trip. 

If you love shipwrecks, this site has not one, not two, but four shipwrecks including two from World War II. The wrecks, and the sea life attached to them, get the most attention but the kelp forests also deserve a visit. Unlike the California kelp forests, these are more like corn fields that shelter thousands of species like sea stars and cod. Keep your eyes peeled when you’re exploring the wrecks for the smaller sea creatures that are often missed if you rush past.

This wreck diving site has been a favorite among cold water divers since 1985. The ship is mostly intact and features large openings that allow for easy penetration into the mess hall and engine room. The interior of the ship is home to big-eyes and snapper while the exterior features colorful anemones. There is a current running through the site, but a good dive plan will help keep you safe there!