hccc.wa.gov · Official
Official Hood Canal water-quality page describing the canal's minimal mixing and long water residence time.
Flagpole Point
Cold-water Hood Canal pinnacle with deep structure and rich critter life.
Scuba DivingBoatAdvanced6m - 27m
DeepPinnacle
A private-access Hood Canal point dive with strong structure, current, and classic cold-water marine life.
About Flagpole Point
Flagpole Point is a deep Hood Canal pinnacle with a private-access feel and a lot of structure in the water column. It is known for cloud sponges, wolf eels, giant Pacific octopus, and other cold-water life, but the same features that make it memorable also make it a site for experienced divers who are comfortable with current and a more demanding Hood Canal dive.
Safety & Access
Site Conditions
Boat trafficCold waterRestricted accessStrong current
Safety Notes
Treat the surface swim with respect, stay off the busy surface near the point, and dive with cold-water gear and good buoyancy.
Access Restrictions
Use the private access route only by arrangement or take a boat; the shoreline is not a casual public entry.
Legal Notes
Respect private property, the access rules, and boat traffic around the point.
Where Is Flagpole Point?
Featured Operators
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Local Intel For Flagpole Point
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
A classic Hood Canal pinnacle dive for experienced cold-water divers who like structure, sponges, and critter hunting.
Freediving
Not a practical freedive target because the reef is deep, cold, and current-influenced.
Snorkeling
Only the shallowest shoreline water makes sense for snorkeling; the main reef is a scuba site.
Wildlife at Flagpole Point
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Research Estimate At Flagpole Point
Access · 2/5Challenging entry effort
Research estimate
Aquatic Life · 5/5Exceptional variety
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Facilities · 3/5Basic facilities
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Current · 3/5Moderate current
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Surge · 1/5Flat calm
Research estimate
- VisibilityResearch estimate
- 8m
