Les Davis Marine Park

Washington

Les Davis Marine Park is on the waterfront of Tacoma , Washington , along Ruston Way . An artificial concrete reef at this site starts at about 25 feet (7.5 m) down and continues past the 80-foot (24-m) depth. Several types of animal and plant life regularly visit the site, and it's a popular training site as well. Seals will sometimes visit the area. The park has picnic tables, restrooms and a small concession stand. Divers should be careful walking down to the main access point, which has crumbling stairs. Local divers hope to repair the steps and have asked the City of Tacoma for permission to do so. In the water, divers should stay 300 feet (91 m) from the pier.

Depths to: In excess of 80 feet (24 m).

Visibility: Varies but can reach 30 feet (9 m).

Water temperature: A dry suit is recommended.

Aquatic life: Octopus, wolf eels, lingcod, seals, starfish, crab, perch.

Fees: None.

On-site amenities: Parking lot, restrooms, concessions, picnic tables, walking trail, fishing pier.

More info: Visit www.metroparkstacoma.org.

Open: Year-round.

Getting there: From Interstate 5 in Tacoma , take Exit 133 and head north. Follow the City Center/Tacoma Dome signs north to Schuster Parkway . Follow Schuster Parkway , staying in the left lane; it will turn into Ruston Way . Follow Ruston Way for 1.5 miles to Les Davis Pier.