The first step in any dive plan is the location. It can also be one of the most difficult tasks. If you’re a new diver searching for where to start, or you’re an experienced diver looking for new locations, we’ve got you covered. The best ways to find the answer to your Google search for “scuba diving near me” are below.
1. PADI Dive Shop Locator
The number one place you can go to find someone who knows about diving in the area, wherever you may be, is a PADI Dive Shop. So to find scuba diving near you, proceed to the nearest dive shop, and look into the courses offered and dive locations visited. Be sure to ask about diving groups if it’s your local shop.
The PADI Dive Shop Locator is a great tool to help you find a dive shop in your local area. Through this search engine, you’re given access to the entire list of PADI Dive Centers and Resorts. First, you must use the search bar and search your location. For example, type in St. Thomas. Once you make the search, you’ll see all the dive shops available around the area. Click on one of the dive shops and explore the information, contact, and location for each shop.
The Dive Shop Locator has many handy features. For example, on the search bar, there’s an option to click on “nearby” (to find local shops). Then, to the right of the search bar, there are options to specify exactly what you are looking for, including filters for courses, languages available, and what kind of diving the shop is equipped for.
2. PADI Adventures App
The PADI Adventures App is a phone application and desktop website that will make your life as a diver easier. Most importantly, the site is simple and user-friendly, which makes finding dive locations a breeze. When using PADI Adventures, you can book courses, dive trips and snorkelling excursions near you or in any destination of your choice. It just takes a few clicks of a button and you’ll have a list of available activities to book before your eyes. Then, choose the one that looks best to you, enter your details and secure your spot. You can book a diving adventure near you in less than five minutes – it’s that easy! Download the app now in the Apple App Store or Google Play. Alternatively, click the button below to start your search in browser.
3. Online Groups & Social Media
We live in an era where everything has moved online. Forums exist, but now social platforms are taking over. PADI has Facebook Groups, an Instagram account and even a TikTok where you can connect with other divers and dive shops. Here, you’re able to converse about locations with the divers who know them best.
We recommend starting with the PADI Divers Around the World Facebook Group. This group of 100,000+ divers, located all over the world, has a vast knowledge bank of diving anywhere on the globe.
Above, we’ve discussed ways to find dive shops, locate divers, and create your next vacation adventure. The only steps left are for you to go out and put these tips to the test. Remember when searching, start simple and finish with specifics, so you can find the right location for you.
