Learning to dive can be a life-changing decision. Not only does scuba diving offer an escape from the everyday, above-the-surface world, it invites you to discover a completely new one – a world filled with marine marvels, like colorful coral reefs, sunken ships and megafauna that will take your breath away.
Getting your PADI is also a fun and exciting way to learn new skills. In fact, these skills may one day become part of your everyday life, especially if you choose to continue learning and become a PADI Professional.
Whether you’re looking to do something new in 2025, want the ideal excuse to travel to a new destination or are looking to take the first step in an exciting career in which the underwater world is your office, there’s no better time to start your PADI Open Water Diver course.
Here are the top places to learn to dive in 2025.
Want more learn-to-dive destination options? Check our our list of the best places to learn to dive in 2024 here.
1. Australia
As home to the world’s largest barrier reef, Australia has always been a top destination among scuba divers, including people looking to take their first breaths underwater. But, for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, long flight times and hefty prices have often relegated Australia to a “next year” destination. The good news is that travel to Australia will get cheaper and easier in 2025. An increased number of flights from Bali (with AirAsia) and Hong Kong (with Cathay Pacific) means getting to the Land Down Under will be more efficient for divers.
In terms of possible diving destinations, Australia will spoil you for choice. It boasts coastline touching three of the world’s oceans, meaning it’s possible to tailor your underwater education to your individual preferences. If the Great Barrier Reef is calling, head to Queensland. Want to meet whale sharks in pristine water? Then, book a course around Ningaloo Reef. And, if you’re drawn to the world’s southernmost coral reef, try for Lord Howe Island.
2. Egypt
Learning how to dive in Egypt offers the perfect opportunity to combine adventure with an unforgettable vacation. Along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, you’ll find numerous beginner-friendly dive resorts to choose from. No matter where you choose to start your underwater adventure, you’ll be surrounded by some of the world’s most colorful reefs and will encounter memorable marine life, like dolphins or dugongs.
What really makes Egypt stand out as one of the best places to learn to dive in 2025, in particular, is the chance to pair your adventure with a trip to the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo. You’ll be among the first people to explore the largest archaeological museum complex in the world. And, of course, no trip to Egypt would be complete without a visit to the Pyramids of Giza (which are located conveniently nearby).
3. Japan
With 34,000 kilometers (21,000 miles) of coastline across the mainland and surrounding islands, Japan is a haven for beginner divers. What sets it apart in 2025, aside from marine life like hammerhead sharks, manta rays, loggerhead turtles and giant spider crabs, is the chance to learn to dive in one of the world’s regenerative diving hotspots.
Japan’s 400+ marine protected areas (MPAs) and five natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites mean there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved with local NGOs and to help protect the ocean as you complete your PADI Open Water Diver course.
One of the most popular destinations to get scuba certified in Japan is in the prefecture of Okinawa. This year-round diving paradise boasts rich coral reefs, impressive visibility and regular encounters with turtles, sea snakes and humpback whales (seasonally).
4. Florida, USA
Florida offers visitors a variety of memorable underwater experiences, including plenty of options for anyone new to the sport. Sea turtles, sharks, rays and sailfish can all be found in the surrounding waters, and a host of shallow dive sites offer macro fun. Also, don’t miss the chance to snorkel with manatees – a unique, albeit scuba-free, experience.
Above the surface, the Sunshine State’s attractions are equally as exciting. From chilled out beach days and thrilling wildlife encounters to space launches and world-famous theme parks, Florida really has something for everyone. And in 2025, Florida will host the opening of several new theme park additions, including Universal’s Epic Universe. Pairing learning to dive with a visit to a new theme park is one way to enjoy an adventure-filled vacation!
5. Brazil
Brazil is another adventure-filled dive destination. Its 4,655 miles (7,491 kilometers) of coastline boasts famous shipwrecks, thriving coral reefs and more than 2,000 marine species. Brazil’s internal waterways also offer some truly unique experiences. These include diving (or snorkeling) with anacondas, giant river otters and pink river dolphins.
In 2025, Brazil will continue its work to becoming one of the most eco-friendly diving destinations. With 15 to 50% of the world’s biological diversity, Brazil plays a crucial role in protecting marine and freshwater ecosystems. Learning to dive in this biodiversity hotspot will put you on the frontlines of conservation. Brazil is looking to bolster the number of and size of its MPAs, and the more eco-friendly ocean tourism Brazil can attract, the more justification there will be for the creation of these marine protected areas.
For beginners, both Fernando de Noronha Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Arraial do Cabo, located near Rio de Janeiro, are ideal dive destinations to start your scuba story.
Ready to Join the Largest Community of Divers in the World?
Learning to dive opens a door to a world of breathtaking marine life, exciting travel opportunities, and unforgettable experiences. With the PADI Open Water Diver eLearning course, you can start your journey today – on your schedule, at your own pace. Then, finish the course in the destination of your choice. Whether you dream of exploring coral reefs, meeting majestic marine creatures, or just trying something new, the first step is just a click away.
