About
Gary's Dive Shop is your San Carlos go-to for PADI certification, wreck and reef dives, family-friendly snorkeling, and scenic nature and bay cruises.
Since 1972, a team of passionate, certified instructors has led it, and it's the dive shop divers go to when they want the real thing. The knowledge of the local sites is second to none, and the staff are absolutely down to earth – they're the shop to go to whether you're a complete novice or an experienced diver.
The dive shop is all about safety, education, and a real love of sharing the underwater world. Gary's is a full-service dive shop offering PADI Open Water certification and more advanced specialty courses, plus gear hire, guided dives, and custom boat charters. Their attitude is to make you feel like you're part of the family, whether you're on your very first dive or you're out there on your hundredth. It's all about small groups and individual instruction, so the dive is catered to the diver's ability and interests.
One attribute that makes this shop a standout is the snorkeling and nature trips. From witnessing sea lions to hovering over tropical fish in shallow water, these trips connect you to marine life, making them ideal for those traveling with children.
When you want to explore the underwater world of the Sea of Cortez, let Gary's lead the way.
Gary’s Dive Shop: Fun Facts & Cool Features
With access to over 20 different dive sites, you can scuba amongst wrecks, volcanic rock reefs, and dramatic underwater cliffs full of tropical fish, rays, and the odd turtle. A standout is Gary's "Sea Lion Dive," where you can actually swim and play with these mammals in their natural environment.
If you want to get certified, the experienced instructors run PADI courses and are equally comfortable in English and Spanish. If you're not quite ready for that step, check out the Discover Scuba package. It includes basic instruction, use of all necessary equipment, and closely supervised dives in shallow, safe conditions.
Experienced divers flock to Gary's for the night dives, offering a totally different perspective on the Sea of Cortez when marine life come out of their shells.
As mentioned, the family-friendly snorkeling trips are some of the best in the area. The "Sea Lion Cove Snorkel" lets you watch the sea lions play, while the "San Pedro Island Adventure" takes you into very clear water with loads of parrotfish, butterflyfish, and the odd spotted eagle ray. For a more relaxed snorkel, the "Caleta Snorkeling Tour" takes you to shallow, sheltered bays with schools of sergeant majors, sea cucumbers, and curious octopuses hiding in the rocks. All the gear is provided, you've got expert guides, and you get to see incredible marine life and the sheer beauty of the Sea of Cortez in all its glory.
Whether you're seeking certification, looking for marine life, or snorkeling calm waters, Gary's Dive Shop is the place to go for your underwater adventures in San Carlos.
Local Tips
- The sea lion dives and night dives fill fast, so book well in advance.
- Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and a towel for the surface intervals.
- If you're planning to dive for several days, ask about package deals.
- They also offer nature and boat cruises.
