Advanced Open Water Diver Course in Monterey, California
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–5 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, comfortable swimming and managing equipment underwater for extended periods.
Overview
Ready to level up your diving? Join Monterey Bay Scuba for the Advanced Open Water Diver course and explore exciting new dive specialties right from Monterey's doorstep.
Details
Take your scuba skills to the next level with Monterey Bay Scuba's Advanced Open Water Diver course, located right on the vibrant Monterey coast. Perfect for recent Open Water graduates, this course offers hands-on Adventure Dives designed to build your confidence and broaden your diving expertise. Under expert guidance, you'll explore various specialties such as deep diving and underwater navigation, all while enjoying easy access to dive sites just steps from the shop. Beyond skills, you’ll gain membership into the exclusive Dive Tribe — a community of passionate divers that provides ongoing group adventures and exclusive discounts. The course is structured to balance challenge and fun, pushing your limits in a supportive and safe environment. With Monterey's rich underwater ecosystem, every dive reveals stunning kelp forests, colorful marine life, and occasional sightings of seals and sea otters. Whether you're aiming to improve your safety, increase your underwater adventures, or meet fellow divers, this course offers an unforgettable experience in one of California’s most iconic ocean locations.
Adventure Tips
Check Your Gear Thoroughly
Ensure all scuba equipment is inspected and functioning properly before each dive for safety and comfort.
Monitor Your Air Consumption
Keep a close eye on your air levels during Adventure Dives, especially when practicing deeper dives.
Practice Buoyancy Control
Refine your buoyancy skills to protect Monterey’s delicate marine habitats and improve your diving experience.
Stay Hydrated and Warm
Drink plenty of water and use appropriate exposure protection to stay comfortable in cooler Monterey Bay waters.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve underwater trails
- Cannery Row lesser-known dive spots
Wildlife
- California sea otters
- Garibaldi fish
History
Monterey’s coastline has been a popular diving destination since the mid-20th century, thanks to its rich marine biodiversity and kelp forest ecosystems.
Conservation
Monterey Bay promotes sustainable diving practices to protect its fragile marine habitats, encouraging divers to respect no-touch policies and minimize disturbance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Underwater kelp forests near Lover's Point
- Nearshore reefs at Point Alones
- Seafloor around Breakwater Cove
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit (7mm or thicker)
Keeps you warm in Monterey’s cold waters, especially during cooler months.
fall specific
Dive computer
Essential for monitoring depth, time, and decompression status for safe dive management.
Underwater compass
Helps with precise underwater navigation during Adventure Dives.
Surface signaling device
Adds safety by improving visibility to boats or fellow divers on the surface.