Scuba Dive Costa Rica
Scuba Dive Costa Rica
Scuba Dive Costa Rica
5
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Full view
About
We dive at Las Catalinas Islands everyday and welcome certified divers of all levels. We also offer Discover Scuba Diving for those wanting to try diving for the first time and Snorkeling for others. We conduct PADI Open Water Courses and Discover Scuba Experiences daily in addition to PADI Advanced Open Water Course for those wanting to further their scuba training. If you have started a PADI Course at home and want to get finished up in Costa Rica, we can assist you with completing your course and issuing your PADI Certification. We meet daily at 7:30 and our boat departs from Flamingo Marina at 8:30 returning by 1pm. We also dive at Bat Islands, the famous Bull Shark Dive in Costa Rica. This tour operates for a min of 4 divers from May to October and departs from Playa Del Coco. We offer return transfers from most accommodations in the general area.
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Scuba Dive Costa Rica
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
445 reviews
Excellent
423
Very good
15
Average
2
Poor
2
Terrible
3
Melissa E
San Diego, CA3 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
I reached out to Scuba Dive Costa Rica about a week in advance to try and schedule some dives for my husband and I while we were in Tamarindo. Phil responded immediately and was very helpful. He informed us about all the diving options and we decided on diving at Bat Island with the bull sharks. Unfortunately, with the island being so far and needing more experienced divers we needed at least four people to come out. We decided to wait it out. In the mean time, Phil was very helpful collecting our certification information and answering all our questions. Luckily we were able to go to the Bat Islands! Phil was prompt in giving us recommendations on where to stay and even helped give us directions from our hotel in Tamarindo to the pick up location in Playa Del Coco. The dive was amazing and visibility was great! It was a perfect day. After we got back to our hotel at the end of the day Phil reached out and asked about the dive. This shop knows what it's doing and I highly recommend them. Very professional and could make even the most timid of divers feel comfortable and welcomed.
Written October 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scuba Dive C
Thank you so much for taking the time to write up your review of your experience with us to Bat Islands. Candid customer reviews are so very valuable to us to help us improve our services and for people to find us. We look forward to seeing you again one day. Happy Diving. Phil
Written March 3, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ADVGabe
Blaine, MN35 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
I got to dive with Manta Rays. I know that is more luck than anything but figured I better mention it. It could happen to you too!
Phil and his crew are awesome! Highly recommend!
I randomly picked SDCR when I decided to get my Open Water Scuba cert and am I happy that I did!
Phil(owner/operator) is super communicative via email; he sent me some preliminary information to get me started and then personally responded to all of my questions in a very timely manner. He lives in the area and gave me tons of useful input for lodging and activities. Not to mention is a cool guy to talk with!
The beach they operate from (playa potrero) is a 20-30min drive trom Tamarindo. Just like all if the other Dive centers “in Tamarindo.” I enjoyed the drive and getting to see more of the area. There is also a newish brewery a block up from where you get off the boat. There is also Hemingway’s Restaurant on the same property if you don’t mind paying a but extra for the convenience.
All of the divemasters/instructors were super nice and helpful. There was a family diving at the same time as our class and the guys were super hands on with the two young boys; helping them fill out their dive logs and teaching them about the gear and different fish. All while keeping a super upbeat and playful atmosphere on the boat.
The dive boat and captain are also awesome! Clean, professional, nice.
The only con, since this is a review, is that the pool at the sailing center (the property that SDCR operates from) is small. 3 students+1 instructor made for tight quarters. We still worked through all of the confined water material though. not complaining, just putting that out there.
Phil and his crew are awesome! Highly recommend!
I randomly picked SDCR when I decided to get my Open Water Scuba cert and am I happy that I did!
Phil(owner/operator) is super communicative via email; he sent me some preliminary information to get me started and then personally responded to all of my questions in a very timely manner. He lives in the area and gave me tons of useful input for lodging and activities. Not to mention is a cool guy to talk with!
The beach they operate from (playa potrero) is a 20-30min drive trom Tamarindo. Just like all if the other Dive centers “in Tamarindo.” I enjoyed the drive and getting to see more of the area. There is also a newish brewery a block up from where you get off the boat. There is also Hemingway’s Restaurant on the same property if you don’t mind paying a but extra for the convenience.
All of the divemasters/instructors were super nice and helpful. There was a family diving at the same time as our class and the guys were super hands on with the two young boys; helping them fill out their dive logs and teaching them about the gear and different fish. All while keeping a super upbeat and playful atmosphere on the boat.
The dive boat and captain are also awesome! Clean, professional, nice.
The only con, since this is a review, is that the pool at the sailing center (the property that SDCR operates from) is small. 3 students+1 instructor made for tight quarters. We still worked through all of the confined water material though. not complaining, just putting that out there.
Written February 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write up your experience. We know that time your time is precious, so this means a lot to us at SDCR. We look forward to welcoming you back and keep diving!
Written August 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MrMarcR
Coquitlam141 contributions
Dec 2019
We wanted to do an intro dive to see if we would all enjoy it before splurging on the full-meal-deal and going for our PADI certification. After a short safety session on land and practicing what we learned in the pool, we were off to Islas Santa Catalina for 2 great ocean dives. There were 4 of us with our dive instructor who was attentive, friendly and very knowledgeable. At no time did we not feel safe, even with a bunch of sharks swimming overhead, and we thoroughly got to enjoy our dives down to 40 feet. Our 13 year old daughter took to it like a fish, and my wife and I finally got to enjoy some deeper water without having to come up for air!
I highly recommend the crew at Scuba Dive Costa Rica, and if we were to come back I would not hesitate to take the full course with them.
I highly recommend the crew at Scuba Dive Costa Rica, and if we were to come back I would not hesitate to take the full course with them.
Written February 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write up your experience. We know that time your time is precious, so this means a lot to us at SDCR. We look forward to welcoming you back.
Written August 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Caroline P
1 contribution
Jan 2023 • Couples
We dealt with Phil who I believe is the owner and originally an Aussie (i can never tell, he could be from NZ;-). Super professional and amiable, especially given our last minute booking. Check for sure with Phil, but there was no up charge for us asking for mask and fins in addition to the scuba gear for rent, which was really nice for travelers just wanting to come down to Costa Rica with minimal carryon.for tight connections. One other thing, Phil was very prompt in his communications, calling me back I believe while he walked up the beach from a dive and then checking in frequently by other methods (what’s app and email). I know this review is all about logistics, but sometimes this can be the biggest hassle when traveling. Scuba Dive Costa Rica exceeded my expectations in this regard.
Written January 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scuba Dive C
Thank you for taking a moment to write up your time with us and highlighting your booking experience. We really hope you enjoyed the diving and Costa Rica. Pura Vida.
Written March 10, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lee W
1 contribution
Dec 2019
Scuba Dive Costa Rica deserves the highest of marks for the dive experience they provided for me and my family of 5. Phil was very easy to work with as we booked the reservation and discussed details of the dive prior to our trip to Costa Rica. We arrived to find a very cheerful staff who was excited for the dive and very helpful with check in process, equipment sizing, and getting us all off to the dive site. Lacey was our dive master and I highly recommend her! She has an obvious passion for diving, is very knowledgeable, and was top notch throughout the experience.
The highlight of the trip was an extended period of time with 3 Giant Manta Rays which only ended because we were at the end of our dive and air was limited. This was amazing and Lacey had prepped us prior to the dive on how to act around the enormous animals. We also saw several whitetip reef sharks, many types of eels, and the usual fish.
After our dive, Lacey sat and talked with us as we had lunch at the onsite restaurant. This was a perfect end to an already outstanding morning.
The highlight of the trip was an extended period of time with 3 Giant Manta Rays which only ended because we were at the end of our dive and air was limited. This was amazing and Lacey had prepped us prior to the dive on how to act around the enormous animals. We also saw several whitetip reef sharks, many types of eels, and the usual fish.
After our dive, Lacey sat and talked with us as we had lunch at the onsite restaurant. This was a perfect end to an already outstanding morning.
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write up your experience. We know that time your time is precious, so this means a lot to us at SDCR. We look forward to welcoming you back.
Written August 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sophie F
1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Couples
This was one of best experiences of my life. The team was incredible and so knowledgeable. It was mine and my boyfriend’s first time trying scuba and they made us feel safe and guided us the whole way through. Vincent was amazing and made it even more fun. We saw beautiful creatures and learned a new skill. HIGHLY recommend to anyone visiting Costa Rica.
Written March 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scuba Dive C
We are all so happy you and James had a great time on your Discover Scuba Diving Experience. Thank you for taking the time to comment on your time with the team. Keep diving and hopefully you get to the Manta's one day!
Written March 21, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
George K
4 contributions
Dec 2019
My son and I had a very good experience with SDCR months before the dive when I corresponded with Phil via email and during the 3.5 hours we spent on the boat and diving with Lacey, Javi, and the captain. I'm a planner so I booked this dive months in advance and Phil even accommodated a last-minute date change. Lacey was our guide during the dive. She is professional and knowledgeable. The captain was great although his singing needs a little work....;-). Thanks for a memorable send off to 2019.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write up your experience. We know that time your time is precious, so this means a lot to us at SDCR. We look forward to welcoming you back.
Written August 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrew M
2 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
Not sure it exists. We were put on a trip with Pacific Coast Dive Center. Paid to dive Catalina's but instead we're taken to nearby islands with poor visibility. This is primarily a snorkeling operation.
Written December 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scuba Dive C
Hello Andrew, we are sorry you had a less than satisfactory day out diving. There are over 10 sites across Las Catalinas and the boat aims for the best sites for divers everyday. This year seasonal winds have arrived approx 4 to 6 weeks ahead of their normal arrival. This means that some days, conditions at some sites may be inappropriate to enter and we need to choose sites that have safe access for everyone on board. Some days we have more divers on board and vice versa, it really depends on the day. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your time in Costa Rica.
Written December 20, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
james h
1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Family
Scuba dive costa rica was the best experience. The team was patient,knowledgeable and full of energy. They gave us the most exciting opportunity a first time diver could have experienced. Our diver was Vincent has been a Scuba diving for 18 years. His experience,patience will take to an underwater tour that you'll never forget. Thank you Scuba dive costa rica your Awsome.
Written March 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scuba Dive C
Thank you so much for writing up your Discover Scuba experience. We are so happy you had such a positive first time scuba diving. Thank you for the shout out to Vince and we hope you will dive again or maybe even get certified? Enjoy the rest of Costa Rica!
Written March 10, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gray S
2 contributions
Nov 2019
Scuba Dive Costa Rica was awesome! Ryan completed his OW certification & his instructor Lacey was super fun and professional, making him feel totally at ease throughout the course. The owner Phil was so helpful, quick to answer my many questions by email before we arrived and was so friendly and genuine. The boat captain Cappy was a beautiful energetic person whose passion for the sea & everything in it is obvious + contagious. Our dive master / instructor was Risky, who was so friendly, funny and an excellent dive guide. I very highly recommend this dive operation!
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write up your experience. We know that time your time is precious, so this means a lot to us at SDCR. We look forward to welcoming you back.
Written August 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
What is the dive visibility in early to mid September in the Las Catalinas area?
Dominik-Scholl
1 contribution
We had 10 to 15 m
bertiandres
Trancoso, BA2 contributions
Hola, buenas tardes! soy divemaster lider y quiero hacer el curso de instructor, ustedes lo dan?! de ser asi me gustaria que me pasen informacion del mismo!gracias!
Phil
Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica20 contributions
Hola!
Si. Por favor tu correo?
Saludos
Felipe
Aspen K
3 contributions
Hi, how do I contact you?
Phil
Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica20 contributions
Hello Aspen! I am sorry this message comes to you late. The TA notifications are not great. If you would still like to get in touch please contact me on info@scubadivecostarica.cr or +506 8602 6581. Our contact details are also on the the TA page. Look forward to hearing from you if you have not already made plans. regards. Phil.
nursetighta
Tamarindo, Costa Rica1 contribution
Herein Tamarindo for 5 days. Looking to do some diving. What kind of sea life can one expect to see in early April?
Phil
Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica20 contributions
Hi and thank you for your enquiry. Diving is great now, really changed up from a couple weeks ago. Cleaner and warmer waters. Sharks, Rays and lots of schooling fish. Really nice right now. Weather looking settled for a few days too. Sunday and Monday we have availability. You can email or call us for details on booking.
Scuba Dive Costa Rica (Tamarindo) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
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