Cathedral Rocks,

Rockport , Massachusetts

If you need a more challenging dive, consider this site, which is recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. Blame the rocky descent to the ocean, and changing tide and wind. When the tide is low, wet slippery rocks make for a challenging entrance and exit. The bottom topography is rocky, too. Still, if the conditions are right, you can enjoy one of New England 's best spots for diving and underwater photography. In relatively shallow water you can spot a variety of fish. Go deeper, say 70-80 feet (21-24 m) depending on the tide, and you'll discover even more marine creatures. The area also is a popular lobster fishing area — a big reason a dive flag is required.

Depths to: 80 feet (24 m)

Visibility: Up to 50 feet (15 m) certain times of the year.

Water temperature: Think frigid in the winter and cool in the summer.

Aquatic life: Includes cunners, colorful seaweeds, pastel starfish, urchins, lobsters, rock crabs, green crabs. A little deeper and you may see a torpedo ray, sculpins, a sea raven, scarlet psoluses, blood stars, fan worms, sea peaches, sea vases, frilled anemones, tunicates, and the colorful northern anemone.

Fees: None

On-site amenities: None but plenty of lodging and dining opportunities are nearby.

More info: Visit the Rockport Chamber of Commerce Web site at www.rockportusa.com.

Open: Year-round

Getting there: Follow Route 127 north from Gloucester through Rockport. Look for the sign for the Ralph Waldo Emerson Inn. It's on the corner of Route 127 and Phillips Avenue . Follow the street to the end of the pavement.

Park along the wall.