Wiarton, Ontario, may not be as famous as nearby Tobermory, but this charming town on the Bruce Peninsula offers crystal-clear waters, exciting shore dives, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to explore unique underwater sites or take a hike through stunning geological formations, Wiarton has something for every adventurer. In this article, we’ll dive into the best scuba spots in Wiarton, followed by exciting outdoor activities to enjoy between dives.
Why Dive in Wiarton? The Perfect Alternative to Tobermory
Many divers pass through Wiarton on their way to Tobermory, Canada’s dive capital, but Wiarton deserves its own spotlight. With three distinct shore dive locations offering excellent visibility, warmer waters, and fewer crowds, it’s a must-stop for divers seeking something different.
- Colpoy’s Bay: Wiarton’s waters offer great visibility, and you can enjoy everything from shallow dives to deeper explorations, reaching over 100 feet in some spots.
- Warm Waters: Compared to Tobermory’s cooler waters, Wiarton’s waters tend to be warmer, making dives more comfortable for longer periods.
- Three Unique Dive Sites: Bluewater Park, the Water Treatment Plant, and Cedar Hill Park each provide a different underwater experience, whether you’re looking for a shallow exploration, marine life encounters, or testing new gear.
Top Dive Spots in Wiarton
Let’s break down the three key shore dive locations that offer something special for every diver.
Bluewater Park: Located near Mallory Drive, this site is great for beginners and experienced divers alike. With plenty of parking and easy water access, you’ll find remnants of a shipwreck and plenty of marine life in the shallow waters (up to 10 feet deep). Perfect for a relaxing dive or a quick check-out dive.
City of Wiarton Bluewater Park site. Click here
Water Treatment Plant: Just a short walk from Spirit Rock Conservation Area, this site offers shallow (10-17ft) dives with excellent visibility. With parking nearby and a porta-potty for convenience, the spot offers divers a chance to explore two wrecks if you’re willing to swim out a bit. Ideal for testing equipment and enjoying peaceful, clear waters.
Cedar Hill Park: This dive site is a hidden treasure, offering easy access and fantastic visibility. With depths reaching over 100 feet, Cedar Hill Park is perfect for divers seeking a bit more adventure. Bathrooms and parking make it a comfortable dive option.
Information from the official site. Click here
A great resource if you’re planning on diving these sites is the Facebook Group Bruce Diver. Click here
Dive shops
There are no dive shops close by; Divers Den in Tobermory is about an hour away. They are a full-service shop open every day all summer and limited hours after Labour Day weekend. The other shop near by is South of the Surface in Own Sound. During the summer, they are open weekends and weekdays by appointment. If you call them a head of dive during the week, they will open the shop to help you out with air fill or anything you need.
Divers Den Click Here
South of the Surface Click here
Outdoor Adventures Between Dives
When you’re not underwater, Wiarton’s natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Here are some great activities to enjoy between dives:
- Hiking the Bruce Trail: Wiarton is a gateway to the Bruce Trail, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Georgian Bay. A short hike along this famous trail will lead you through forests, cliffs, and scenic lookouts.
- Bruce Caves Conservation Area: Located just a short drive from Wiarton, these impressive slate caverns are a must-see. Explore the natural formations on foot and enjoy a peaceful walk through the unique geological landscape.
- Spirit Rock Conservation Area: Perfectly positioned near the Water Treatment Plant dive site, Spirit Rock features a 5 km loop that includes an abandoned mansion, a lookout point over Wiarton Bay, and a spiral staircase. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and take in some history.
- Wiarton Willie Park: No trip to Wiarton is complete without visiting Wiarton Willie, the famous groundhog who predicts Canada’s weather. The park offers a nice spot to relax or have a picnic between activitie if this is something you want to do save your blue water park till the end because Blue water park and Wiarton Willie park are the same location.
Where to Eat in Wiarton
After your dives and outdoor activities, refuel at one of Wiarton’s local spots:
- Tim Hortons: A classic Canadian stop for coffee, donuts, and sandwiches, perfect for a quick bite.
- Foodland Hot Counter: Great for divers on a budget, offering delicious fried chicken, wedges, and deli sandwiches that are perfect for a post-hike snack.
Looking for other food options in Wiarton Click here.
Places to Stay in Wiarton
Whether you’re planning a dive weekend or a full vacation, Wiarton has plenty of places to stay:
- Spirit Rock Outpost: A cozy, affordable spot with a great atmosphere for divers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Water View on the Bay: Enjoy a hot tub, pool, and stunning views of Wiarton Bay, the perfect place to relax after a day of diving.
- There are also several campgrounds in the area.
Make Wiarton Your Next Dive Destination
Wiarton may be smaller than its famous neighbour, Tobermory, but it’s packed with charm, adventure, and incredible shore dives. Whether you’re diving in the clear, warm waters of Colpoy’s Bay or hiking through the beautiful Bruce Peninsula, Wiarton is a hidden gem that every scuba diver should explore.