Overview
The former Ingraham Street Bridge was demolished and sunk in wreck alley in the 1990s as an artificial reef. The cement pillars, railing structures, and other rubble are covered in Gorgonians (sea fans). These are a rare find in our local waters and well worth the dive. The field of rubble spans the length of Mission Beach, and each area offers different structures and a wide variety of sea life hidden amongst the crevices.
What to See
All four types of Southern California gorgonians. We have seen many eels, octopi, black and white seabass, and of course reef fishes hanging around this beautiful artificial reef.
Typical Conditions
Open Water+ friendly. Water 50-52F; visibility varies.
History
Demolished in 1992 and its concrete/rebar remnants added to Wreck Alley by the California Department of Fish and Game's Artificial Reef Program (per contemporary reporting) - more precise than our old "1990s" note. The original bridge's construction date has not yet been confirmed.
Photographed here
What our divers have photographed at Ingraham Street Bridge
18 species and features identified in our own photographs from this site. A record of what has been here, not a promise of what will be: sightings change with season, visibility and luck.
Photographed by Callie Mack, November 2024, September 2024
Blackeye goby · Chestnut cowry · Giant keyhole limpet · Golden gorgonian · Light bulb tunicate · Painted greenling · Purple gorgonian · Rubberlip perch · Strawberry anemone · Rock scallop · Yellow zoanthid · Chestnut cowry · Golden gorgonian · Pacific blood star · Purple gorgonian · Red volcano sponge · Rock scallop · Warty sea cucumber