A fantastic retreat, both above and below the water, the Shrine of Saint Therese in Juneau, Alaska is privately owned and maintained by the local Catholic Diocese. Even so, divers and all others are welcome to come and enjoy the many natural delights the shrine has to offer.
A Sanctuary for Marine Life - The Shrine of Saint Therese
While it is neither a federal nor state marine life sanctuary, the Shrine of St. Therese is considered to be a no take zone by locals and as such, it offers a spectacular sanctuary for marine life and divers alike. Located at 415 Sixth Street in Juneau, the shrine is open all year and divers may visit at any time during the posted hours. There is no fee to dive, but the shrine does welcome donations!
During late fall, winter, and early spring, sea lions are just about guaranteed on each and every dive, and no matter what time of year you visit, you'll be astounded by the abundance of marine life. On the wall side at a depth of about 40 feet, you'll find octopus dens marked by telltale "bone heaps," as well as a veritable rainbow of macro life including decorator crabs and nudibranchs. There are plenty of fish here too - in particular, you'll find colorful rockfish and nesting Lingcod. Look up and you may be treated to the sight of salmon swimming overhead.
In the cove area, there are many fantastic rock formations which are swathed in lush pink corals that create an astonishing backdrop for photographs of the many colorful creatures you'll find as you make your way from one area to the next. There are lots of little crabs and minuscule eels, as well as spiny purple sea urchins and sea cucumbers, an abundance of sea stars, and minnows galore. At a depth of 40 feet, there is a smooth sandy area where a vibrant garden of orange and yellow sea pens and lush anemones can be found.
Less experienced divers will want to stay in the cove area, particularly if conditions are anything but perfect, while those with more experience will enjoy everything the Shrine of St. Therese has to offer. You'll experience the best visibility during the colder months of the year, but that doesn't mean you should avoid diving here or at other sites in Alaska during the warmer months! There is always plenty to see. Visibility tends to be fairly poor in the shallows and opens up once you reach depths of 25 feet and beyond.
Topside, the shrine has many interesting features to enjoy, whether you are a religiously minded person or not. For example, there is a wonderful hiking trail and a labyrinth for meditation walks, plus there is a historic stone chapel and a lodge. If you are a Catholic and you want to attend services at the shrine Masses are usually held from the Sunday following Memorial Day through the first Sunday in September. The buildings are beautiful inside and out, and the chapel is sometimes available for weddings. Whether you come for the site's spiritual aspects or simply to dive, you're certain to appreciate the Shrine of St. Therese.