PADI Advanced Freediver Course with Dive California in San Diego
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days (full-day sessions)
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical health with strong swimming skills and ability to handle breath-hold training.
Overview
Take your freediving to the next level with Dive California’s PADI Advanced Freediver Course. This three-day course combines classroom theory, pool training, and open water dives off San Diego’s coast to build skill and confidence underwater.
Adventure Tips
Prioritize Hydration
Drink plenty of water before and between sessions to avoid dehydration, which can impact breath-hold performance.
Focus on Relaxation Techniques
Use relaxation and breath control learned in the pool before attempting deeper dives in open water.
Understand Buddy Protocols
Always dive with a trained buddy and practice safety drills regularly to mitigate risks underwater.
Acclimate to Ocean Conditions
Spend time adjusting to ocean temperatures and currents before deep diving to avoid surprise physical stress.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Leopard sharks frequently glide near shore in winter months
- Bright orange Garibaldi fish patrol rocky reefs year-round
History
La Jolla’s coastline has long been a site of marine research and conservation, with underwater ecological reserves protecting delicate habitats since the 1970s.
Conservation
Dive California supports sustainable freediving practices that minimize disturbance to protected kelp forests and marine life, promoting ocean stewardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Freediving wetsuit
Provides thermal protection and flexibility for various water temperatures during pool and ocean dives.
all specific
Freediving fins
Long, flexible fins improve propulsion efficiency crucial for deeper dives.
all specific
Freediving mask and snorkel
Low-volume masks streamline equalization and visibility; snorkels aid breathing at surface without fatigue.
all specific
Waterproof watch or dive computer
Tracks time underwater and surface intervals to support safe and effective breath-hold training.
all specific