Discover Scuba Diving in San Diego
Beginner-Level Scuba Experience
What is Discover Scuba Diving?
Curious about scuba diving in San Diego but not ready for certification?
Discover Scuba Diving is a private, beginner-level scuba experience designed for first-time divers. You’ll learn basic scuba skills on the surface before completing a supervised ocean dive at La Jolla Shores or Mission Bay. No prior experience or certification is required.
You’ll work one-on-one with a certified instructor and experience scuba diving in calm, controlled conditions. A great beginner experience for tourists, locals or anyone curious about scuba diving in San Diego.
Who is This For?
First time divers
Nervous beginners
Tourists and locals curious about scuba
Families and couples seeking fun San Diego adventure
Ages 10 and up
Anyone curious about scuba but not ready for full certification
This is an ideal experience for anyone wanting to experience scuba diving without committing to a full scuba certification course in San Diego. No experience required.
All sessions include private or small-group instruction, full scuba equipment, safety briefing and a supervised open-water dive. Depending on group size, participants may be required to pick-up/drop-off equipment at dive shop.
Where We Dive?
All Discover Scuba sessions take place at La Jolla Shores or Mission Bay, depending on conditions. These are among the safest and most beginner-friendly ocean dive sites in Southern California. Both sites feature a sandy bottom, gradual entries and calm conditions making them both ideal for first-time divers and scuba diving experiences.
Marine life may include garibaldi, rays, lobsters, octopus, halibut and seasonal leopard sharks.
La Jolla Shores Dive Site: 8200 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037
Mission Bay Dive Site: 2600 Bayside Lane, San Diego, Ca 92109
What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel and hydration.
Rental Gear: Participants may be required to pick-up/drop-off scuba equipment at dive shop.
Parking: Free public parking available.
Duration: 2-3 Hours
What to Expect During Your Session?
Safety and equipment briefing
Equipment setup
Skill practice in shallow water
Guided ocean dive with experienced, local instructor
Debriefing and next steps into the PADI Open Water course
Safety & Experience
Private One-on-One Instruction with a PADI Elite Instructor.
All sessions are private and led by a PADI Instructor with over 20 years of teaching experience in San Diego. You are never part of a crowded group or mixed with other groups.
Discover Scuba FAQ
Q: Do I need certification to do Discover Scuba?
A: No. Discover Scuba is designed for beginners. You can try scuba diving in San Diego without being certified.
Q: Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
A: You should be comfortable in the water and able to swim, but you don’t need advanced swimming skills. We keep things calm and controlled.
Q: How long does the experience take?
A: Plan for a few hours from start to finish depending on conditions and your comfort level. I don’t rush sessions.
Q: What’s included in the price?
A: Private or small-group instruction, full scuba equipment, a safety briefing, and a supervised open-water dive (conditions permitting).
Q: Can couples or friends do this together?
A: Yes. Parties of 2-4 are welcome. If you want the most personalized experience, a private scuba experience is the best option.
Q: What if ocean conditions aren’t safe?
A: Safety comes first. If conditions are not suitable, we will reschedule.
Q: Is this safe for nervous beginners?
A: Yes, this is exactly what I specialize in. We go step-by-step, at your pace and stop any time you need a break.
Q: How do I book?
A: Call/text 858-729-8513 and I’ll confirm the best time, location and what to expect.
Ready to Try Scuba in San Diego?
Experience the underwater world safely and confidently with a private beginner-level scuba experience in San Diego Today!
Still have questions? Text me !