Birchy Head Diving Site

Parking is iffy. A short but awkward scramble to get to the site. Probably more difficult with scuba gear.

Overview Birchy Head is a small, secluded dive area appropriate for experienced open water to advanced level divers. Divers can reach depths up to 140 feet here, but the reef only extends to about 55 feet; after that it's just sand. Birchy Head boasts a variety of marine life and has an interesting rock bottom including boulders and ledges—there's always lots to see while diving there. The entry into Birchy can be challenging—there is a steep slope that leads down to the rocky beach. There is a rope tied to a tree on this slope to help you down (see pictures). The beach itself is made up of round stones that can be a tripping hazard, so be very careful. It's best to avoid Birchy Head when there are southwesterly winds as the waves can be relatively large. Site Description: The site is just off of the road, you have to hop a guard rail to go down the path. Park on the ditch side of the road. There is a steep slope down with a ledge to hand down equipment. Suiting up at the car is not recommended as there is a small climb down required to get to the beach. The beach is rocky and often slippery near the water. Watch for waves and currents. Do not dive this site alone. Bottom Composition and Depth: Rocky bottom to moderate drop off, variable plant life. You can go +90ft but there is sand and not much else out past 70ft. Visibility: Visibility can be limited due to weather. 20 - 25ft normally. Notes: There are no facilities very close to Birchy Head other than the Fox Point convenience store located before Fox Point Beach and the Irving at the end of Highway 329 Please keep the dive site clean—take all your garbage home with you. Hazards and Safety: It is EASY TO GET LOST and miss the beach when coming back in. Use a buoy, shore maker flag or have a non-diver on shore. The entry into the water is a bit hazardous as there are ROUND ROCKS that can present a tripping hazard. The entry into the dive site can be very challenging as there is a very STEEP SLOPE to bring gear down. It's best to bring all your gear to the beach and assemble it there. There can be a relatively large SURGE when the wind is southwesterly, and also when the tide is coming in.