Dive into Poseidon's Playground near Orange Beach, Alabama—a unique site with underwater statues and accessible depths perfect for training and leisure. Discover what makes this spot a favorite among local divers and why the "DOWN UNDER" boat enhances every trip.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended; comfortable swimming skills and ability to handle basic diving protocols essential
Wildlife
History
Poseidon's Playground was developed as part of local efforts to create artificial reefs and dive attractions enhancing marine habitat.
Conservation
Diving operators encourage no-touch policies and responsible buoyancy to protect underwater sculptures and sea life.
Down Under Dive Shop
Dive into Poseidon's Playground near Orange Beach, Alabama—a unique site with underwater statues and accessible depths perfect for training and leisure. Discover what makes this spot a favorite among local divers and why the "DOWN UNDER" boat enhances every trip.
Down Under Dive Shop is a professional dive and snorkel operator based in Orange Beach, Alabama. The shop offers a range of guided trips, from nearshore reef dives and snorkel excursions to offshore wreck and aircraft carrier group adventures. Trips include the Oriskany Aircraft Carrier Group Trip (Advanced Openwater certified divers only), the New Venture wreck dives, the Off Shore Dive Trip aboard the 46' Newton Dive Special 'DOWN UNDER', and relaxed sites such as Poseidon's Playground and the 3 Mile barge.
The operation provides both snorkeling and scuba options, with guided snorkeling at rock jetties and turtle grass beds that host diverse marine life. Near Shore Dive Trips visit artificial reefs and wrecks like the Atlantis and 3-mile barge, while offshore trips explore sites including the Navy Tug and the Allen Liberty Ship. The New Venture Dive Trip is a full-day experience featuring two wreck dives and a hot dog cookout.
Down Under Dive Shop accommodates a range of skill levels by offering training-friendly sites and tailored trips on request. Boat amenities and dive logistics are managed aboard the custom vessel 'DOWN UNDER', designed for diver comfort and safe transport to sites several miles offshore. Safety and clear qualification requirements are emphasized, for example requiring Advanced Openwater certification for the Oriskany trip.
With a focus on guided experiences, accessible snorkel excursions, and specialized wreck dives, Down Under Dive Shop serves divers and snorkelers seeking structured, local Gulf Coast adventures. Reservations are recommended to secure preferred dates and dive sites today.
Location
Orange Beach, AL
Gulf Coast dive base
Dive Vessel
46 ft 'DOWN UNDER'
Custom boat for dive trips
Activities
Snorkel & Scuba
Options for multiple skill levels
Trips Offered
7 trips
From snorkel to aircraft carrier
Reserve a spot on a snorkel or scuba trip aboard the 'DOWN UNDER' and explore Gulf Coast wrecks and reefs.
Check tides before diving
Tides affect visibility and diving conditions at Poseidon's Playground; plan dives during slack tide for optimal clarity.
Bring a dive computer
A dive computer helps monitor depth and bottom time, crucial for safe use of the 40-foot maximum depth site.
Wear a wetsuit even in summer
Gulf waters can be cooler underwater than expected; a wetsuit ensures comfort during extended dives.
Secure your gear on the boat
DOWN UNDER dive boat offers gear racks and tie-downs; use them to prevent equipment loss during transit.
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm during cooler water temperatures common in spring dives.
spring
Dive Computer
Monitors depth and time to ensure safe dive profiles.
Mask and Snorkel
Essential for visibility and surface swimming before and after dives.
Underwater Torch
Helpful for inspecting statues and structures when light is low or visibility drops.