Exploring the Los Cabos Open Water Diver Course: Your Gateway to Underwater Adventure

If you’ve ever dreamed of breathing underwater and exploring a world teeming with vibrant marine life, the Los Cabos Open Water Diver Course offers a fantastic way to get started. Set in the renowned diving spots of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, this 3-day program, priced at $550 per person, combines solid instruction, stunning scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere. Guided by certified SSI instructors, this experience is tailored for beginners eager to gain their first internationally recognized certification and enjoy some of the most beginner-friendly diving locations in the world.
What we love most about this course is how it balances theory and practice in a way that makes learning both engaging and practical. The instructors, like Camila and Rogelio, are praised for their patience, clarity, and genuine enthusiasm, making even nervous newcomers feel at ease. The opportunity to explore Pelican Rock and North Wall, with depths not exceeding 12 meters, means you get to marvel at underwater beauty without feeling overwhelmed.
One potential consideration is that the group size is small, maxing out at 4 travelers, which is great for personalized attention but might mean fewer options if you prefer larger groups for socializing. Also, since the course involves reading and videos before water practice, you’ll want to ensure you have some time to review materials beforehand for a smoother experience.
This program suits travelers who are curious, eager to learn, and looking for a safe, guided introduction to diving that emphasizes comfort and fun. Whether you’re an active traveler wanting a new skill or someone who wants to add an unforgettable experience to your Cabo trip, this course fits well.
Key Points
- Hands-on Learning: The course offers a perfect mix of classroom theory and practical water sessions.
- Expert Guides: Instructors are highly praised for their patience and clear explanations.
- Beginner-Friendly Spots: Dive sites like Pelican Rock and North Wall are ideal for first-timers.
- All-Inclusive Experience: Gear, water, snacks, and lunch are included, making it convenient.
- Flexible Schedule: The 3-day program runs Monday through Saturday, mornings.
- Recognized Certification: The SSI Open Water Diver certification is accepted globally, allowing you to dive up to 18m.
Planning more time in Cabo San Lucas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Detailed Look at the Experience

Location and Setting
Cabo San Lucas is known for its breathtaking coastal scenery, but the real magic lies beneath the surface. The course is based at Sunrider Tours’ center, conveniently located in the marina area, making it easy to access after your hotel or cruise. The proximity to some of the best beginner diving spots—Pelican Rock and North Wall—means you’ll spend your water time exploring vibrant coral, schools of fish, and maybe even the occasional ray or sea turtle.
The Itinerary and What You’ll Learn
Over three days, the program covers 11 hours of training—a thoughtful investment that balances time and depth of instruction. Day one typically involves theory, including videos and reading material, so you’ll come prepared with some foundational knowledge. The instructors, like Camila or Armando, make sure everyone is comfortable with the basics of equipment handling and safety procedures before heading into the water.
Day two and three are dedicated to practical skills and open water dives. You’ll get to practice essential skills such as buoyancy control, mask clearing, regulator recovery, and navigation, all in shallow waters. The reviews highlight how patient and thorough the instructors are, with Milagros praising Armando for making her feel safe and comfortable at every step.
The Dives and Locations
The three dives are spread across different sites, including Pelican Rock—famous for its clear waters and abundant marine life—and North Wall, which offers a gentle slope and easy visibility. These spots are ideal for beginners because the depths rarely exceed 12 meters, giving ample space to learn and relax without feeling overwhelmed.
Travelers who took the course found the underwater scenery to be quite impressive, with one reviewer noting the “incredible job” by their instructor Rogelio and boat captain Jaime in making the day unforgettable. The focus on safety, combined with stunning underwater views, makes this an experience worth investing in.
What’s Included and How It Works
The all-inclusive package takes care of all your needs—gear, water, snacks, and lunch—so you can focus solely on learning and enjoying. The mobile ticket system simplifies the process, and the meeting point at Blvd Marina is easy to find, close to public transportation.
The small group size enhances the personal touch, ensuring you receive tailored guidance. The course operates year-round, with sessions available Monday through Saturday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, giving flexibility to fit into your Cabo itinerary.
Authentic Feedback from Participants
The reviews echo the generally high satisfaction among participants. Many highlighted how patient and knowledgeable the instructors are, with one describing a “great experience for my grandsons that will benefit for years to come.” Others appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to learn in some of the best beginner spots in the world, making it clear that safety and comfort are priorities.
Some reviewers mentioned that even those initially nervous, like a granddaughter who was “a little nervous,” found the instructor Camila put her at ease, proving that this course can be suitable even for absolute beginners.
Practical Considerations
While the course is designed for beginners, you should have moderate physical fitness—it’s not overly strenuous but does require some movement and comfort in water. Since the training involves both theory and practical sessions, it’s best to set aside enough time to review materials beforehand.
Pricing at $550 might seem high at first glance, but when you consider that it includes all gear, instruction, and certification, plus the chance to explore some of Cabo’s most scenic underwater spots, it offers good value. The personalized attention and small group size add to the overall quality.
Weather and Cancellation Policy
The tour is weather-dependent, and if poor conditions cancel the activity, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing some flexibility should plans change.
Who Should Consider This Course?

This program is perfect for beginners eager to try scuba diving in a safe, guided environment. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized instruction, as the small group size ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd. If you’re interested in an internationally recognized certification that opens doors to diving around the world, this course delivers.
Parents or grandparents traveling with young teens, as highlighted in reviews, will find the experience suitable for children as young as 13, especially with instructors like Camila making nervous learners feel comfortable. It’s also ideal for travelers looking to add an adventure activity to their Cabo vacation without spending days away from the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the course take?
The program spans roughly 3 days, with 11 hours of training divided across those days, including classroom and water sessions.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all necessary gear, water, snacks, and lunch, along with instruction and certification processing.
Are the sites suitable for beginners?
Yes, the dives occur at sites like Pelican Rock and North Wall, which have depths not exceeding 12 meters, making them ideal for newcomers.
Can I complete the certification in 3 days?
Absolutely, the course is designed to be completed within three days, provided you review the materials beforehand.
What equipment will I use?
All necessary diving gear is provided by the center—mask, fins, wetsuit, regulator, etc.—so you don’t need to bring your own.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention a 13-year-old completing the course comfortably, especially with an instructor like Camila.
What is the maximum group size?
The max is four travelers, ensuring personalized guidance and attention.
What if I’m nervous or unsure?
Instructors are praised for their patience and ability to put beginners at ease, so even if you’re nervous, you’ll be in good hands.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity with a full refund.
Is the certification valid internationally?
Yes, the SSI Open Water Diver certification is accepted worldwide and allows you to dive up to 18 meters.
Final Thoughts

The Los Cabos Open Water Diver Course stands out as a well-rounded, professional, and fun introduction to the underwater world. Its combination of expert instruction, stunning dive sites, and inclusive amenities makes it a solid choice for anyone wanting to gain a new skill while enjoying the beauty of Cabo. The small group setting and attentive guides ensure you feel safe and supported, even if you’re a first-timer.
If you’re looking for a value-packed way to add some adventure to your Cabo trip, this program offers a memorable, educational, and quite possibly life-changing experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, it’s a chance to see Cabo from a completely new perspective. Just remember to review the materials beforehand and embrace the beginner’s mindset—you’re about to make some underwater memories.
More Tour Reviews in Cabo San Lucas
- Ride the Guinness World Record Sky Bike Only in Los Cabos
- Instagrammable Glass-bottom boat trip in Los Cabos Bay
- Los Cabos Photographer
- Love is in the air! Private horseback ride on the beach and sunset dinner!
- 2×1 Tour: Cabo San Lucas Arch + Camels Ride + Pick up!
- Baja Overland Surf Trip (2 Nights Camp, 3 Days of Surf)
More Cabo San Lucas experiences we've covered
- Ride the Guinness World Record Sky Bike Only in Los Cabos
- Instagrammable Glass-bottom boat trip in Los Cabos Bay
- Los Cabos Photographer
- Love is in the air! Private horseback ride on the beach and sunset dinner!
- 2×1 Tour: Cabo San Lucas Arch + Camels Ride + Pick up!
- Baja Overland Surf Trip (2 Nights Camp, 3 Days of Surf)
- Cabo Escape Breakfast Snorkel Cruise
- Cabo San Lucas Pirate Adventure – Family Sunset Cruise
- Lovers Beach and El Arco Boat Trip
- Desert and Beach Buggies Tour
- Los Cabos Jetski Experience 30 Minutes With Hotel pickup
- Tour the Arch, Land’s End and more in Cabo’s original Clear Boat
