While the Gold Coast is definitely one of the best places in the world to ride the waves, there is a whole other world to be explored beneath them. Whether you are looking for scuba diving or freediving activities on the Gold Coast, there is something for everyone along this world famous stretch of coastline. With some of the most astoundingly beautiful reefs to be found on the planet and plenty of intriguing shipwrecks, it is difficult to think of anywhere else that provides a scuba snorkeling experience quite like here.
What to Expect When Scuba Snorkeling on the Gold Coast?
The biodiversity of the Gold Coast is amazing, to say the least. With more than 15,000 different species of fish ranging from little tiddlers right up to some of the largest sharks in the world, it’s easy to find yourself distracted in this magical watery world. There are also plenty of turtles, maori wrasse, manta ray, clownfish, jellyfish, and crustaceans going about their daily life. Of course, you could head to SeaWorld to see many of these, but there is nothing quite as captivating as seeing them in their natural habitat. Beside the ocean life, the Gold Coast plays host to lots of mysterious shipwrecks waiting to be explored, many of which hold a rich history.
Where to Go Scuba Diving on the Gold Coast?
While many people automatically think of the Great Barrier Reef for scuba diving in Queensland, the Gold Coast is more than able to hold its own when it comes to offering up a unique experience that you will remember for many years to come. Now, it is true that most scuba diving is found a short distance away from Surfers Paradise, but if you are looking for the best place to stay on the Gold Coast, then this is it. Surfers Paradise not only keeps you entertained during the day, but is also the hub of nightlife in Queensland. Here are the best scuba diving companies in the surrounding area.
1. Queensland Scuba Snorkeling
Queensland Scuba Diving caters to those with and without experience and can pick you up and return you to your hotel on the Gold Coast. Climb on board the catamaran and make your way to Wave Break Island where you will get to go beneath the waves and explore everything that it has to offer. For those who are nervous about scuba diving for the first time, you can take advantage of a snorkelling trip to get a feel for it. When scuba diving off of Wave Break Island, you will be accompanied by a fully qualified PADI instructor. With a real knowledge of the best places to dive, Queensland scuba diving is located just outside of Surfers Paradise and operates dives 7 days a week.
Address – Berth 91, Mariners Cove, SeaWorld Drive, Main Beach, Gold Coast QLD 4217, Australia.
2. Gold Coast Dive Adventures HQ
Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, Gold Coast Dive Adventures HQ offers a reef and shipwreck scuba diving trip, an introductory dive snorkelling, and much more. Take a dive on the wreck of the Scottish Prince, the Aquarian, or the Sea Dragon. Explore Kirra Reef, Mermaid Reef, or Migaloo Reef or visit Wave Break Island and The Spit. With a comprehensive list of scuba diving trips available, there is something for every ability level and more than enough to do to keep you fully entertained for several more days. The close proximity of Gold Coast Dive Adventures some of the Gold Coast’s best scuba diving sites makes it absolutely perfect for those looking at heading below the surface.
Address – 2/3 Parneno St, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia.
3. Devocean Dive
Devocean Dive is the perfect place to learn how to scuba dive. If heading out into the open ocean is what you are looking for, then the deluxe open water course will be exactly what you’re searching for. Learn how to operate all of your scuba dive gear, understand the different elements of safety, and then head out into the ocean to explore some of the finest beauty that Gold Coast scuba dives have to offer. If you plan on staying for a while, then the PADI open water dive course will have you scuba diving like a pro in no time at all. With a selection of Gold Coast reefs and shipwrecks to explore, scuba diving has never been so much fun.
Address – Southport Trade Centre, 40/3 Jackman St, Southport QLD 4215, Australia.
4. Freediving Gold Coast
Freediving Gold Coast take things to the next level with their Freediving courses. While not strictly scuba diving, the thrill at the absolute silence that you get from an ocean dive without the scuba diving equipment only serves to further enhance the overall experience. Depending on your comfort levels, you can begin to practice in a dedicated pool before heading out into the ocean. The ocean Freediving experience includes free pick up from your hotel on the Gold Coast, plenty of practice and training before hitting the water, and then making your way out into open waters. The course begins at 8 in the morning and finishes at 5 p.m.
Address – 151 Cotlew St, Ashmore QLD 4214, Australia
5. Gold Coast Dive Centre and MTC
Gold Coast Dive Centre is perfect for those with a passion for scuba diving on the Gold Coast. Everything that you need to learn to discover the magic beneath the ocean waves is included in this 3-day open water diving course. All of the equipment that you need will be provided to you and at the end of the course, you not only get to head out into open water and explore everything on offer but you also receive your Open Water certification card. Located less in the heart of the Gold Coast, it is the ideal location for learning all of the technicalities associated with scuba diving to help you make the most of your time underwater.
Address – 2/56 Paradise Ave, Miami QLD 4220, Australia