Triton Cove sits about 20 minutes north of Sund Rock but offers a completely different experience. Shallow, low-stress, and colorful and peaceful when visibility cooperates.
Address / Google Map
Address: 314515 US-101, Brinnon, WA 98320 (Search “Triton Cove State Park” on Google Maps).
Entry
If the videos from Instagram didn’t work, head to youtube https://youtube.com/shorts/PFgbEojhlr4
Dive Site Information
Access: Access is via the boat ramp. Walk-in from the ramp on an easy gradient but can be slippery. The alternative/lower parking lot near the ramp puts you closer to the entry point.
Dive Profile: Shallow cove to the right of the boat ramp (when facing the water). Max depth around 50 ft. Points of interest at 15–30 ft, including a small wall at approximately 30 ft.
Bottom Composition: Sands
Hazards: Entry shares the boat ramp with boats. Once underwater, the site is too shallow for vessel traffic to be an issue. Main parking lot is a longer walk; the alternative/lower lot cuts it down
Current: Typically no.
Things to see: Gobies everywhere. Sailfin sculpin and grunt sculpin for treats. Plainfin Midshipmen throughout the shallows. Some rockfish as well.
Plan a safe, comfortable dive with planyourdive.com
Dive Site Map
Key depth: Small wall at ~30 ft. Located much closer than it appears — watch your navigation on the first dive. Don’t overshoot it!
Map via CascadianDivers on ScubaBoardFood for thought for planning
Levels: All levels. Beginner friendly. Quiet and calm.
Facilities: Restrooms and picnic tables in the main/upper parking lots.
Fee: Discover pass (One-day Pass $10 & Annual Pass $45)
Parking: Two options: main/upper lot (more space, longer walk) and overflow/lower lot near the boat ramp (closer, but competes with boat trailers). Do not park in the ADA spot unless you are ADA permitted.
Hours: Summer 6:30 a.m. – Dusk. Winter 8:00 a.m. – Dusk
Other Activities: Boating, fishing, crabbing
Pro Tip
Triton Cove makes a solid backup if Sund Rock or Octopus Hole are full. It’s a different experience — shallower, more macro-focused — but the drive is short and the site holds up on its own.
Reference Materials
Visibility report: https://pnwdiving.com/triton-cove-state-park
Tide & current: https://www.planyourdive.com/sites/trinton-cove-state-park (note there is typo for the site name on pyd)
Dive site info: Washington State Parks, Youtube
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Triton Cove good for beginner divers?
Yes. Triton Cove is one of the most beginner-friendly sites in Hood Canal. Max depth is around 50 ft, there’s typically no current, and the boat ramp gives you a gradual, easy entry.
Where do you park at Triton Cove?
Two options. The main upper lot has more space but is a long walk to the water with gear, including negotiating with stairs. The alternative/lower lot near the boat ramp is closer but smaller, and you’ll compete with boat trailers for spots. Do not park in the ADA space unless you have a valid permit.
Can I dive Triton Cove if Sund Rock or Octopus Hole are full?
Yes, and it’s a reasonable backup. Triton Cove is about 20 minutes north of Sund Rock and it is typically quiet. The experience is different — shallower, more macro-focused — but the logistics are easy and the marine life is worth the trip on its own.
What marine life can I expect at Triton Cove?
Gobies are everywhere. Sailfin sculpin and grunt sculpin show up regularly. Plainfin Midshipmen are common in the shallows. Some rockfish scattered around. On a good visibility day, the shallow cove has an aquarium-like quality to it.
About Pan — Full Cave and Advanced Recreational Trimix diver based in the Pacific Northwest. I started diving without knowing how to swim; now I drive three hours each way to dive in Puget Sound/Hood Canal. Two Ocean Notes documents the technical progression, gear decisions, and travel planning behind this dive life — from a petite engineer’s perspective, without the fluff. → Read my full story
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Editorial disclaimer
Please be aware that scuba diving is an inherently risky activity, even with certification and experience. The content on this blog reflects my personal opinions and experiences and should not be considered instructional. Always prioritize safety, seek guidance and certification from qualified diving professionals, and carefully consider the risks involved in any dives.
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