Discover Scuba Diving

Lovely, lovely people! From the moment we made our online snorkeling reservation to departing the dingy on our return to shore, we had an incredible experience thanks to the staff members. Our time on the dive boat was safe and fun, with loads of freshly cut fruit, cookies, and NA drinks to restore energy. We stopped at two spots near Santa Catalinas but waves were choppy from the high winds. Even though the water wasn't the clearest, we still saw many schools of fish, angel fish, and reef sharks. Again, I cannot praise Davide and his team enough!

Incredible experience for my husband and I with Tamarindo diving! We did the discover scuba diving experience which included 2 dives. We had been scuba diving once before and are not certified. They prioritize safety, and provided clear instructions and guidance for us. It was a great refresher! On our dives we were lucky enough to see SO much marine life - colorful fish, starfish, moray eels, sharks, dolphins, and 2 beautiful manta rays! We can’t say enough good things. Thank you for an amazing time!

It was a bit chaotic, not as well organized and knowledgeable as I had hoped. The snorkeling and diving were ok, rough water and limited resources on the boat.

This experience was fantastic. I have PADI Open Water certification and it was my husband’s and kids’ first time SCUBA diving. The instructors did a great job briefing about what to do with the regulators and other equipment. The instructors made sure the kids felt comfortable with everything. We saw dolphins and a sea turtle while in the boat. During diving, we saw puffer fish, a leopard ray, lots of fish, and a white tip shark. I highly recommend Tamarindo Diving Center!

Amazing trip!! David and lily were tremendous guides. My two younger boys went diving for the first time and said it was the best part is their time in Tamarindo. From check-in to boat transfer, to the diving, all was incredible. It’s a must do! Thank you guys for the awesome time!

Instructors: The instructors were knowledgeable, caring, kind and so much fun! They made the entire experience wonderful! They were upbeat, and happy the entire time. You could tell they loved their jobs, and that they wanted you to have an incredible time. They stayed on top of everything, so all we had to do was learn and enjoy our time! We were picked up by lilly, and then met other instructors on board. They were all amazing! Experience: This experience was once in a lifetime!! My husband and I had not tried scuba diving before and we weren’t sure what we were getting ourselves into, but we had a blast! We were provided with everything we needed, equipment, scuba suits, and flippers. We were picked up from our hotel, and then driven to the starting point. It was a little uncomfortable in the car as they didn’t account for the number of people being picked up, but it wasn’t a big deal as the starting point was literally up the road. We started on the beach getting signed up, sized for our scuba suits, and flippers. Next we jumped on a smaller boat for a short ride to get us to the bigger boat that took us to the Catalina Archipelago. It was a long ride but so so so worth it. They provided water and smaller snacks throughout the tour. We participated in two 40 min dives. In our group there were 3 of us that weren’t certified so we were paired with 2 instructors, another group were certified and went on a deeper dive, and the 3rd group were snorkeling only. Our instructors walked us very quickly through the important information we needed to know, it was a little overwhelming but they mentioned that they would be keeping track of us at all times and they didn’t want us focusing on things other than our breathing, which took a lot of the pressure off of us for our first time. The instructors took us through safety practices and some skill practices during the first dive, assessing us and correcting us to make sure we were diving safely. They kept track of our oxygen, our vests, and our person the entire time. They made sure we were comfortable at all times, I even got sea sick once I was in open water and I was apologizing and the instructor was so kind and reminded me that this is not the first time someone as gotten seasick and it won’t be the last, and to make sure I am comfortable as that is the most important thing. They made sure we were comfortable in our gear, comfortable above water, and helped us get our bearings in the water. The first dive the instructor held onto us and escorted us underwater, and showed us different animals. The second dive the instructor assessed we were ok to hold hands with each other only, and allowed us to roam alongside them. We explored the ocean floor about 15-20 meters below, had an incredible experience and were so proud we were able to accomplish this and mark it off of our bucket list! We saw so many different types of fish, puffer fish, a shark and dolphins. I would 100% do it again! Things to keep in mind: - If you have motion sickness/sea sickness you are going to get hit with it. Come prepared. I am a pharmacist and asked my doctor to give me some scopolamine patches (which worked, but I ended up getting sick anyway). - As a first timer scuba diving is very mind over matter, if you get anxious or scared I would suggest doing the 2 day option and practice in the swimming pool first. There was someone on our boat that wasn’t able to complete the second dive because their anxiety got the better of them and they used up all their oxygen before going under. - Your mask with cover your nose, so you really have to put your mind to work to focus on your breathing. - The second dive gets easier as your body has already adapted to the breathing techniques - we almost sat it out and are so thankful we pushed through! - The most important thing is to stay calm, the instructors are there for you for everything!

Instructors: The instructors were knowledgeable, caring, kind and so much fun! They made the entire experience wonderful! They were upbeat, and happy the entire time. You could tell they loved their jobs, and that they wanted you to have an incredible time. They stayed on top of everything, so all we had to do was learn and enjoy our time! Experience: This experience was once in a lifetime!! My husband and I had not tried scuba diving before and we weren’t sure what we were getting ourselves into, but we had a blast! We were provided with everything we needed, equipment, scuba suits, and flippers. We were picked up from our hotel, and then driven to the starting point. It was a little uncomfortable in the car as they didn’t account for the number of people being picked up, but it wasn’t a big deal as the starting point was literally up the road. We started on the beach getting signed up, sized for our scuba suits, and flippers. Next we jumped on a smaller boat for a short ride to get us to the bigger boat that took us to the Catalina Archipelago. It was a long ride but so so so worth it. They provided water and smaller snacks throughout the tour. We participated in two 40 min dives. In our group there were 3 of us that weren’t certified so we were paired with 2 instructors, another group were certified and went on a deeper dive, and the 3rd group were snorkeling only. Our instructors walked us very quickly through the important information we needed to know, it was a little overwhelming but they mentioned that they would be keeping track of us at all times and they didn’t want us focusing on things other than our breathing, which took a lot of the pressure off of us for our first time. The instructors took us through safety practices and some skill practices during the first dive, assessing us and correcting us to make sure we were diving safely. They kept track of our oxygen, our vests, and our person the entire time. They made sure we were comfortable at all times, I even got sea sick once I was in open water and I was apologizing and the instructor was so kind and reminded me that this is not the first time someone as gotten seasick and it won’t be the last, and to make sure I am comfortable as that is the most important thing. They made sure we were comfortable in our gear, comfortable above water, and helped us get our bearings in the water. The first dive the instructor held onto us and escorted us underwater, and showed us different animals. The second dive the instructor assessed we were ok to hold hands with each other only, and allowed us to roam alongside them. We explored the ocean floor about 15-20 meters below, had an incredible experience and were so proud we were able to accomplish this and mark it off of our bucket list! We saw so many different types of fish, puffer fish, a shark and dolphins. I would 100% do it again! Things to keep in mind: - If you have motion sickness/sea sickness you are going to get hit with it. Come prepared. I am a pharmacist and asked my doctor to give me some scopolamine patches (which worked, but I ended up getting sick anyway). - As a first timer scuba diving is very mind over matter, if you get anxious or scared I would suggest doing the 2 day option and practice in the swimming pool first. There was someone on our boat that wasn’t able to complete the second dive because their anxiety got the better of them and they used up all their oxygen before going under. - Your mask with cover your nose, so you really have to put your mind to work to focus on your breathing. - The second dive gets easier as your body has already adapted to the breathing techniques - we almost sat it out and are so thankful we pushed through! - The most important thing is to stay calm, the instructors are there for you for everything!

Mario was great, helped tell us what was needed with no prior experience. Even though I got a bit seasick after the first dive, it was still a wonderful experience!

The team were great. Even though I have scuba dived before and am certified. I had asked to me treated as a newbie due to it being over 15 years since I had been. The discover scuba diving course was great. Instructors checked on you constantly and your well being came first. I was a little bit uneasy about not having a depth gauge. But I guess for a first time diver that just gives more to worry about. Overall a great experience we did end up down at 60ft so bring a go pro housing. I thought we were only going to be at 30ft so I killed my go pro. (my bad for not asking) Got to see eel snake, puffer fish, white tip sharks. I wore a shorty wetsuit and was very warm the whole time. I forgot his name but the guy from Italy was our instructor and he needs a pay rise. :o)

Got dizzy, 2 boat rides, one in a very small boat then into a bigger boat for 1 hour drive. Instructor doesn’t speak and explain well in English.

This was my first time scuba diving. I was a bit nervous, but Luis and the whole staff was great. I had an absolutely amazing time. Luis was a great instructor; super mellow and reassuring. I would highly recommend these guys for your first diving experience!!

The second dive was plentiful with fish eels, and white tip reef sharks. Guides were very knowledgeable and helpful for novice divers

Not clear at all. Very murky. Equipment was aged. I believe a storm had passed through earlier, but I was told Las Catalinas was some of the best scuba, couldn't see 2 feet in front of my face. Tried to tell dive master I wasn't sinking & needed more weights and that salt water was getting into my regulator. No one listened. Another crew member found a fault in my regulator on the way to our next dive, so luckily the second was better.

This was such a great experience and the instructors are so kind and very knowledgeable. We saw a lot of see life which was super amazing and I felt so safe the entire time! This is a must do!

This was a great experience. Everyone was very friendly and knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend.

We had an amazing time with Alejandro and Kiki. The boat ride out was a little choppy but the dive was well worth it! They were very patient with my niece and nephew who were first timers. We saw skates, sharks, countless types of fish and starfish, eels and very cool coral and rocks. HIGHLY recommend these guys whether you have done the Discover Scuba before or it is your first time you are in GREAT hands! PURA VIDA!

This experience was AMAZING!! My husband and I went on a dive with this crew just this week and we were so impressed by their level of professionalism and expertise! Carmen, Alejandro and Jack were so helpful and friendly, and as soon as we get home we definitely want to get scuba certified! Thank you for such a memorable experience!

Imagine seeing turtles, sting rays, and sharks. The whole cast of finding Nemo floating above and below you while you float weightlessly like your in space. Absolutely incredible!

We went with our teenage sons who hadn’t dived before. We had done PADI certification but hadn’t dived for many years and were very rusty so asked that we were all treated as novices. We took the option of a pool session before the trip - a bit of extra money but really well worth it. Our instructor Billy was very patient and we did two excellent dives in the Catalinas the following day. Loads to see and have definitely got the diving bug back. Highly recommended.

What an amazing dive myself and my husband Chris had around Las Catalinas. We had Dominic as our instructor and he was absolutely amazing - Chris isn't qualified and Dominic was fantastic as putting him (and me!) at ease - going through all instructions very clearly and ensuring he took his time. The dive sites are incredible, so much marine life to see - sharks, rays, loggerhead turtle, a vast variety of fish! No manta rays unfortunately but we will be back one day! Thank you so much Dominic and the team.

Very good and safe Discovery Dive. They offer a 1-day experience, but I only would recommend this to those that have dived before and are comfortable doing a theory crash-course on the boat. Otherwise take 2-day option for maximum comfort Ina had an amazing personal approach and I felt completely safe with her underwater watching amazing fishes and stingray.

There was absolutely no hesitation to sign up for 2 dives with these guys - they were super friendly from the get-go with their local office dogs, one of them Kaiya they greeted us upon signing up. These dives helped me see Costa Rica from a different perspective while rejuvenating my soul and exploring uncharted territories. It was the first time I saw eels and octopuses. If you are visiting Tamarindo and looking for a solid dive day with wavy waters and spectacular wildlife, this is the place. If you are not certified, I saw them certify another 3 divers and took people out on snorkeling tours (who ended up seeing more wildlife than the divers!). My guide, William gave great insight on the Catalina Islands and the wildlife and Costa Rican culture. If you need to use the rest room, do it in advance! I had never had to go as bad as I did at the end of our day!

Amazing experience! We dived with Laura who is an experienced instructor and passionate about her job. She is a marine biologist so she was great at finding and explaining animals to us and make us feel safe all the time. David the owner is such a special person!! He has a great character and a vintage minivan that ads personality to the trip! The whole boat crew was great, this was the best experience I had in all of Costa Rica!

We completely enjoyed our time trying out scuba diving with Andy and the team from Tamarindo Diving. We did it over 2 days. 1st day (an hour or so) was in a nice pool across the street - trying on the equipment, learning how everything works & learning the important basics. Andy was a wonderful teacher, with a lot of patience and a good way with people. He was generous with his time, which we really appreciated. The 2nd day was out on the ocean. The time Andy had spent with us the day before made the experience really fun and I was way more relaxed about everything than I thought I would be! We’ll remember this experience for a long time. Davide, thank-you for the pick-up and drop off too. We’d easily recommend your company to anyone.

We dove with them at january 3, it was my best dive in Catalina Islands, amazing staff, very helpful, and The spot is amazing. We could see white sharks and even a Whale Shark

We had an incredible time scuba diving!! It was our first time and we have a 9yr old so we were skeptical at first but when walked in the staff were so friendly that it went away. We took the two day package and on the first day we got to try the equipment in a pool. This was really helpful as we learned how to use it. Our guide Andi was excellent and was extremely patient with our younger one! On day 2 in the ocean, Andi held on to our daughter during the dive while directing the rest of us and he made the experience super fun and calm for all of us! We got to explore the ocean and see gorgeous marine life such as pufferfish, eel, trumpetfish, and much more and we got extra lucky and got to see a MANTA RAY!! It was an unforgettable experience thanks to the incredible crew and of course, our amazing guide Andi!!

This was my first time diving and I cannot hide I was pretty stressed before jumping into the water as the ocean was a bit rough. In the end, I fought my fears and I followed Davide. I never felt unsafe, not even for 1/2 a second. As soon as we started descending I felt completely at ease and the view of this amazingly abundant marine flora and fauna, was so relaxing..... I can just recommend these people! They really know what they are doing, very professional and always taking care that safety comes first. I will definitely come back, next time to get my certification! Thank you!!!!

I loved my experience with them! I highly recommend those guys. Luis and Michael are amazing, as well as the owner!

I've never been scuba diving before so this was my first try and it was super fun! I was lucky to be the only one without a certification that day, so I got an instructor all by myself (Franko). Taking my hand, following me around and showing me all the amazing sea life. It's not super fancy, but it's costa rican style! And we saw some awesome (not dangerous) sharks!! ¡PURA VIDA!

My daughter and I did a Discover Scuba dive with David, and it was fantastic. He was a great instructor, the dive locations were good (although visibility was not great on the day we went), and the boat and equipment were top-notch. Great experience with a fun crew. Highly recommended.

It was the 1st time the all family can dive together and we spent a great time, even if the visibility was not good these day! Thank you Davide.

We did the diving baptism with them, highlight their professionalism, the first day we did the exercises in the pool with Barney and Quique, it was very enjoyable and gave us the confidence to go to sea the next day. The experience was wonderful, I was very nervous but thanks to Barney's guidelines and his patience and the great help of Quique we enjoyed infinitely the two dives and everything we saw, sharks, rays, snakes, millions of fish. And we were lucky enough to see turtles, dolphins and whales from the boat. Thanks guys for the experience. Pure life

It was my first time doing scuba diving and it was great, at all times I felt very safe and accompanied by instructor Barni allowing me to enjoy the adventure to the fullest. The organization and staff are a 10. Thank you also to Carmen who has treated us great. Highly recommended.

Package of 5 days / 2 dives per day on Islas Catalina’s. Very good experience with a very professional and very friendly equipped, really very good service

Let’s face it: the management is a bit “homely” and as such, sometimes it could cause some perplexity at the first approach. But if you bring patience you will find that it is accompanied by a great sensitivity for the environment, respect for the sea and for others. Fantastic CREW of the guys on board the diving boat. Tamarind diving is definitely recommended if you have the necessary calm to live the experience: from the morning departure, to the diving, up to the “green” break with fresh fruit, almonds and fermented tea, all dutifully without plastic! So Pura Vida friends, or, as they say in Livorno: BONA BIMBI, see you soon! 🇨🇷🤙