My Scuba Diving Experience
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Follow Jennifer Gervens as she shares what it was like to learn to scuba dive on Alabama’s Beaches, from shore dives in Orange Beach to dreaming about Gulf Coast wreck dives.
Learning to scuba dive has been on my bucket list since I was a teenager, and I finally got to make that wish come true on Alabama’s Beaches thanks to Down Under Dive Shop.
Can You Scuba Dive in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?
Yes, you can scuba dive in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, whether you’re a beginner looking for a first class or a certified diver. For some reason, I always imagined I'd have to go to an island dive destination or take a tropical all-inclusive vacation in order to get my open water certification.
I never thought about learning to scuba dive right here in Alabama – my home state! I'm so glad I was introduced to scuba diving in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and didn't put off my scuba diving dream until "someday."
Why I Loved Scuba Diving on Alabama’s Beaches
Wreck Diving on the Gulf Coast
Wreck Diving on the Gulf Coast
Since my first dive, I've completed my advanced open water certification and can't wait to dive some of the shipwrecks and artificial reefs along the Alabama Gulf Coast, with popular scuba diving spots like The LuLu off Orange Beach (a 271-foot coastal freighter) and the nearby Oriskany off Pensacola.
The closest I've gotten so far is a couple of near-shore dives with Down Under Dive Shop that gave me excellent scuba practice. These are only some of the many dive spots that offer divers a chance to explore underwater structures just off the coastline of Alabama’s Beaches.
Endless Deep Water & Shore-Diving Options
Endless Deep Water & Shore-Diving Options
While taking a charter out for a boat dive allows you to explore greater depths and vary your adventures, there's something nice about being able to just wade in from shore and go.
I completed my training dives at the Perdido Pass jetties in Orange Beach. There's also The Whisky Wreck that can be accessed from shore, just south of Bahama Bob's in Gulf Shores.
Easy Access & Convenience to World-Class Dives
Easy Access & Convenience to World-Class Dives
For my Alabama's Beaches dive trip, I didn't have to worry about the expense or hassle of an airline flight, and I don't have to factor in "no-fly time" for my return home. The convenience factor means I get more time in the water and more valuable practice.
Best of all, it is a vacation the whole family loves. My husband was able to have fun with the kids on the beach and take advantage of all the fun things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach while I was out exploring the reefs. I enjoyed world-class diving, and we still shared a classic family beach vacation. It truly is the best of both worlds.
Scuba Classes in Gulf Shores: How Beginners Can Try Scuba Diving Before Getting Certified
Not sure if scuba diving is for you? Ask Down Under Dive Shop about a PADI Discover Scuba class. You'll experience what it's like to breathe underwater and get a feel for dive equipment, all in shallow water. It's a great way to get your feet wet (ha!) and see if open water certification is something you want to pursue.
Plan Your Own Scuba Diving Experience in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Scuba diving on Alabama’s Beaches helped me experience Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in a whole new way. Whether you’re ready to start your open water certification, try a beginner-friendly scuba class, or explore local dive sites on your next beach trip, this coastal destination is a great place to begin.
With local dive shops, shore-accessible spots, and plenty for the whole family to enjoy between dives, it’s easy to turn a beach vacation into a brand-new adventure beneath the surface.
