Learn to dive with our PADI Open Water course in a fun, relaxed setting alongside new friends and ocean lovers.
Join a friendly dive community, share great moments underwater, and become part of the Life & Dive family.
Know Your Course
Schedule your Open Water Course with us
The PADI Open Water Diver course is usually completed in 3 to 4 days, depending on your availability and learning pace. We offer flexible scheduling to suit both travelers and locals.
Day 1
Orientation, theory review, and pool skills session in shallow, calm water.
Day 2
Ocean dives 1 & 2 will help you to practice the basic skills you learned in the pool and build comfort on water.
Day 3
Ocean dives 3 & 4, where you’ll learn more refined skills you will be able to deepen your knowledge and explore.
Day 4
You will be evaluated with a final exam and 1 additional fun dive, after which you will obtain your PADI certification.
Short on time? Check Scuba Diver
A program even shorter to get a PADI license in just two days!
Check the details for the PADI Scuba Diver Course. Shorter than the PADI Open Water, this course still allows you to advance in the process of a full certification.
Earn your Scuba Diver license in Costa Rica in just two days with certified instructors, top-quality gear, and small groups.
Start Your First Scuba Diving Lessons
The PADI Open Water Diver course in Costa Rica is your entry into the underwater world. Designed for beginners, this certification allows you to dive up to 18 meters (60 feet) anywhere in the world. It’s the most popular scuba course globally—and the best way to begin exploring the ocean safely.
Why Divers Call Us the Best Dive Shop in Playas del Coco
Diving trips in Playas del Coco
Join our daily diving trips in Playas del Coco, Costa Rica, and visit the most spectacular dive sites in Papagayo Bay. Our fast boat and local expertise mean more time underwater — ideal for those who want to make the most of their vacation.
Whats Next?
Earn your PADI Open Water Diver certification in Costa Rica and explore a new world beneath the surface. Continue your dive education with the Advanced Open Water course or aim higher with Rescue Diver and Divemaster certifications.
The PADI Open Water Diver course is the world’s most popular scuba certification program. With Life&Dive Costa Rica, you’ll learn the essential diving skills, safety procedures, and theory needed to dive independently with a buddy up to 18 meters (60 feet). It’s your ticket to explore the ocean freely — anywhere in the world!
No prior diving experience is needed. You just need to be comfortable in the water and ready to learn. The course starts with basic theory and confined water sessions, followed by 4 open water dives in the ocean — all guided by your PADI Instructor.
The course usually takes 3 to 4 days to complete, depending on weather and student progress. You can also start your theory online through PADI eLearning, allowing you to finish the knowledge portion at home and complete the diving sessions once you’re in Costa Rica.
Life&Dive offers training dives in calm, safe, and beautiful locations such as:
Gulf of Papagayo: Perfect for beginners, with easy conditions and plenty of marine life.
Catalinas Islands: Ideal for advanced training dives with vibrant volcanic reefs.
Local reefs: Close to shore and full of tropical fish, rays, and turtles.
You’ll learn how to:
Set up and use scuba gear properly
Control your buoyancy and breathing underwater
Communicate with your buddy and manage minor problems
Plan and execute safe dives
By the end of the course, you’ll be a certified diver capable of exploring dive sites worldwide.
Your course with Life&Dive includes:
PADI eLearning materials or theory sessions
All scuba gear (mask, fins, wetsuit, tanks, and weights)
Pool/confined water training and four open water dives
Certification fees and PADI Instructor supervision
Absolutely. The Open Water Diver course follows PADI’s global safety standards, and all training is done under direct supervision of certified PADI Instructors. Our focus is on comfort, confidence, and fun — at your pace.
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is home to colorful reef fish, rays, turtles, moray eels, and sometimes even dolphins. Each dive offers a new experience, and visibility can reach 15–25 meters in many sites.
Yes! Once you’re an Open Water Diver, you can join fun dives with Life&Dive or continue your education with the PADI Advanced Open Water or specialty courses. Your certification never expires and is valid worldwide.
Because we combine world-class training with Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Our small groups, experienced instructors, and personalized approach ensure you get the best mix of safety, learning, and adventure — turning your first certification into an unforgettable experience.
Get your diving certification now
Start your underwater journey with our PADI Open Water Diver course. Gain skills, confidence, and meet new dive buddies in a fun, supportive environment. Ready to dive in?