Love the ocean and dressing up for Halloween? Or do your kids adore marine life, mermaids or pirates? Scuba-themed costumes are the perfect way to make a splash this October 31st. Whether you’re a diver yourself or just want to channel some under-the-sea vibes, we’ve rounded up the best scuba-themed costumes to inspire your look.
From marine creatures to your favorite film characters, we’ve got ideas for every ocean lover out there — including kids. We’ve also included both ready-to-buy scuba costumes for last-minute planners and DIY scuba-themed Halloween costumes for anyone feeling creative.
Read on to discover the best scuba-themed costumes.
1. Scuba Diver
What easier scuba-themed costume is there for a diver than dressing up as… a scuba diver? It’s the ultimate go-to for Halloween, especially if you want something simple, recognizable and fun. Plus, it’s a great last-minute option since you may already own most of the costume if you dive.
DIY Scuba Diver Costume Ideas:
- Mask and snorkel
- Spray paint two soda bottles silver or yellow to mimic scuba tanks
- Fins (real or homemade)
Ready-To-Buy Options:
- Scuba-Gear-Printed Swimsuit Cover-Up
- Full-Body Modern Diver Costume
- Full-Body Classic Diver Costume
- Scuba-Gear-Printed T-Shirt
2. Jellyfish
If you’re looking for a scuba-themed Halloween costume that’s both unique and eye-catching, a jellyfish is a fantastic pick. With its glowing, effervescent look, this costume really stands out — and you can make it as simple or elaborate as you like.
DIY Jellyfish Costume Ideas:
- Use an umbrella as the “bell” of the jellyfish.
- Attach matching ribbons, streamers or strips of fabric as tentacles.
- For an outstanding glowing effect, add battery-powered string lights inside the umbrella.
- Dress in a matching color to complete the under-the-sea vibe.
Ready-To-Buy Options:
3. Mermaid
Want a scuba-themed costume you can actually wear while swimming? Transform into a mermaid (or merman)! A mermaid tail is perfect for warm waters, tropical parties or beachside Halloween fun. On land, it also makes for a whimsical, eye-catching costume — just keep in mind it’s best for events where you don’t need to walk too much.
Ready-To-Buy Options:
- Mermaid Tail
- Body Glitter (for that eye-catching glimmer)
- Long-Haired Wig (if you don’t already have luscious locks)
4. Jacques Cousteau
The father of scuba diving makes for an easy topside, scuba-themed costume. Channel the legendary ocean explorer with just a few simple accessories. It’s the perfect choice if you’d rather skip bulky gear but still want a clever nod to the diving world.
DIY Jacques Cousteau Costume Ideas:
- Red Beanie
- Round Eyeglasses
- Pipe (real or prop)
- Long-Sleeve Denim Shirt
- Optional: Your best French accent for added flair.
5. Nemo, Dory or Crush From Finding Nemo
As some of the most popular Pixar characters of all time, Nemo, Dory and Crush make for fun, scuba-themed costumes that everyone will recognize. These colorful, family-friendly outfits work especially well for couples, trios, groups or parents and kids searching for a coordinated look.
Ready-To-Buy Options:
6. Shark
Sharks are one of the most popular ocean-inspired Halloween costumes — and for good reason. They’re instantly recognizable, available in countless styles and can be as playful or dramatic as you want. From full-body (mostly) anatomically accurate shark suits to “being eaten by a shark” designs (more on that below), there’s something for every personality.
As advocates for the ocean, we can also use shark costumes to spark meaningful conversations about one of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures. Instead of portraying sharks as villains, consider your costume a chance to highlight the facts – shark attacks are incredibly rare – as well as the importance of sharks and their need for protection. If you do choose that “being eaten by a shark” design, consider carrying a sign with real shark attack facts or using it as a conversation starter to defend sharks. Encourage friends to get involved through the PADI AWARE Shark & Ray Census or by taking the PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty course.
Ready-To-Buy Options:
- Inflatable Full-Body Shark Costume
- Wearable Shark Fin
- Shark Attack Costume – A great conversation starter for true shark attack facts!
7. Octopus
Another popular choice for a scuba-themed costume is everyone’s favorite cephalopod — the octopus! With its eight tentacles and playful look, dressing up as an octopus is an outstanding option for Halloween. Plus, it works for both store-bought costumes and DIY creations, making this option perfect for last-minute or crafty partygoers.
DIY Octopus Costume Ideas:
- Two pairs of stuffed pants to act as four additional legs (attached with a belt)
- Felt or paper circles stuck onto the legs to mimic suction cups
- Headband or hat with eyes stuck on for the head
Ready-To-Buy Options:
8. Ocean Ruler Costume (Neptune, Poseidon, Aquaman or Namor)
Whether you choose Neptune, Poseidon, Aquaman or Namor, this costume helps you become a recognizable ruler of the ocean. From wielding a mighty trident to styling flowing locks, embodying one of these iconic undersea leaders is a surefire way to stand out at any Halloween party.
DIY Ocean Ruler Ideas:
- Trident or Spear (crafted or purchased)
- Crown (crafted or purchased)
- Long-Haired Wig
Ready-to-Buy Options:
Ready To Go Beyond Your Scuba-Themed Costume?
Whether you’re dressing as a diver, a shark or your favorite undersea character, we hope you have a fun and safe Halloween. Costumes are a great way to share your love of the ocean, spark conversations and inspire others to explore scuba diving.
Be sure to snap a pic and tag us on social by using #PADI. We’d love to see your costume!
If you or someone you know isn’t yet a certified diver, why not take your underwater pride beyond Halloween? Now is the perfect time to start your scuba adventure and explore some of the world’s spookiest dive sites.
