First Coast Divers

Florida's beaches and ecosystems are breathtaking and a nature lover's playground. But have you thought about exploring the hidden reefs and natural springs? Now you can with First Coast Divers, ranked as one of the top Jacksonville Beach attractions.

Dan Mechelke opened the dive shop in 2007, and it has grown to become Jacksonville's only 5-star PADI facility offering lessons, dives, certification, and rental gear. Dan has partnered with PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) to offer only the best regarding scuba diving. 

At First Coast Divers, Dan brings his enthusiasm for the sport and zeal to meet new people to the forefront of all he does. While he admits you may find better price deals, you won't find another dive shop that matches their service and quality gear.

While you'd picture a dive shop near the beach, First Coast Divers is closer to downtown Jacksonville. Such convenience allows for trips to other landmarks, like visiting the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens after a dive lesson or grabbing drinks to celebrate getting certified at Restaurant Orsay.

When you're ready to explore the area's reefs and springs, First Coast Divers will get you in the water safely and with expertise.

First Coast Divers: Fun Facts & Cool Features

If you've ever dreamed of diving, Coast Divers is your go-to to get your open-water certification. They offer various classes to fit any schedule, including a ladies-only session. 

The Standard course is done on a weekend and has a faster-paced format for those eager to get underwater. Plan on Thursday evening for a classroom, Friday evening for a pool session, and all day Saturday at Devil's Den Springs for your open water check-out. Sunday is a half-day at Rainbow River Springs.

The Private course is ideal for families and groups wanting a one-on-one instructional experience. With flexible scheduling, you can tailor your course to suit your needs. You'll get access to the PADI eLearning site to complete the required pre-class home study. Also included is the scuba gear for your open water check-out dive at Devil's Den Springs and Rainbow River Springs.

I you're PADI certified and it's been years since you've been in the water, investigate the Refresher course. Once you complete the pre-class eLearning course, you'll meet on Thursday evening for a class. On Friday evening, you'll have a pool session and a dive at Devil's Den Springs on Saturday morning. 

As mentioned, planning a visit to another nearby landmark is easy. Before your evening class, explore the MOSH (Museum of Science and History) or meet your diving buddies at Culhane's Irish Pub to chat about the marine life you encountered at the springs. 

First Coast Divers offers rentals for snorkeling and dives. Rest assured you're getting safe, modern equipment, not hand-me-downs or overly used gear. 

When you're ready to take the plunge into discovering Florida's underwater world, visit First Coast Divers. Whether getting certified or renting gear, you'll discover why they are a top Jacksonville Beach attraction.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to First Coast Divers from Jacksonville:

• Head south on N Main St toward E Union St.
• Merge onto FL-10 E/Atlantic Blvd via the ramp to the Beaches.
• Follow Atlantic Blvd and turn right onto San Pablo Rd S.
• Turn left onto Beach Blvd/FL-212.
• Continue on Beach Blvd, then turn right on Penman Rd S.
• Turn left onto Beach Plaza Dr.
• Address: 1234 Beach Plaza Dr, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

Cost 

We can only list some things with many class options and rental equipment. Instead, here's a sample of what you can expect at First Coast Divers:

• Weekend OWC: $469 per person
• Private OWC (1 person): $1,599 
• Private OWC (4 person): $599 per person
• Snorkel Gear Rental: $19.95

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.