Diving into the Deep – Scuba Adventures in the Phoenix Region

by Jim Schwartz

Beneath the sun-scorched deserts of the Phoenix region lies an unexpected aquatic playground waiting to be explored. While Arizona might not boast ocean coastlines, its man-made lakes and reservoirs offer a surprising array of scuba diving opportunities that attract enthusiasts from novices to seasoned divers. Whether you’re gliding through the clear waters of Lake Pleasant or uncovering sunken treasures in Lake Mohave, the Phoenix region provides a unique inland diving experience that blends adventure with the stark beauty of the desert. In this article, we’ll dive into the training options, local vendors, prime diving venues, and essential precautions to ensure your underwater journey is both thrilling and safe.
Training for Your Underwater Odyssey

For those looking to take the plunge, Phoenix is home to a vibrant scuba community supported by top-notch training facilities. Beginners typically start with an Open Water Diver certification, the most recognized scuba credential worldwide, offered through organizations like PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) or SSI (Scuba Schools International). The course includes online or classroom knowledge development, confined water dives in a pool to master basic skills, and open water dives—often at nearby Lake Pleasant—to earn your certification. Costs generally range from $450 to $500, depending on the vendor and schedule, with additional fees for open water dives.

Several local vendors stand out for their quality instruction and welcoming environments:

• Sea 2 Sea Scuba in Phoenix offers comprehensive courses from beginner to technical diving levels. With decades of expertise, their instructors create a supportive setting for learning. Contact them at (623) 698-5566
  https://www.sea2seascuba.com.
• Salt & Sea Scuba, also in Phoenix, boasts a twelve foot indoor heated pool—perfect for building confidence before hitting the lakes. Their experienced team, including instructors with National Geographic credentials, ensures top-tier training. Reach them at (602) 314-4288
  https://www.saltandseascuba.com.
• Saguaro Scuba in Mesa has been a staple since 1998, offering discounted PADI and SDI courses alongside private lessons. Call (480) 503-3483
  https://www.saguaroscuba.com.

These centers emphasize safety, comfort, and personalized instruction, preparing you to explore the region’s underwater wonders with confidence.

Prime Diving Venues in the Phoenix Region

Phoenix’s proximity to several dive-worthy lakes makes it a hub for desert divers. Here are three standout venues, each with its own charm and offerings:

• Lake Pleasant – Just 45 minutes north of Phoenix, this reservoir is a training favorite due to its accessibility and diverse underwater features. With visibility averaging 20 feet, divers can explore wrecks like a sunken boat near Tech Island or the dam area. Managed by Maricopa County Parks, contact them at (602) 506-2930
  https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/parks/lake-pleasant-regional-park
• Lake Mohave – A three-hour drive from Phoenix near Laughlin, Nevada, Lake Mohave is renowned for its clarity, with visibility often exceeding 50 feet. Cabinsite Point is a highlight, featuring a sunken school bus, van, and “Scuba Steve”—a skeleton with a treasure chest—at depths of 40 to 70 feet. Reach the Lake Mead National Recreation Area at (702) 293-8990
  https://www.nps.gov/lake.
• Canyon Lake – About an hour east of Phoenix, this smaller lake offers a more intimate dive with depths up to 130 feet. Though visibility can be murkier (10-20 feet), the rocky formations and occasional fish sightings make it worthwhile. Contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200
  https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.

These venues provide a mix of training grounds and adventure spots, accessible for day trips or weekend getaways from Phoenix.

Precautions for Safe Diving

Scuba diving in the Phoenix region comes with its own set of challenges, and taking precautions is key to a safe experience. The desert climate means hydration is critical—drink plenty of water before and after dives to combat dehydration, especially in summer when surface temperatures soar. Lake waters can be cold, particularly below the thermocline (often in the 50s°F), so a 7mm wetsuit or drysuit is recommended for thermal protection. Visibility varies by season and location, so dive with a buddy and carry a dive light for murky conditions or deeper explorations.

Altitude is another factor; many Arizona lakes sit above 1,500 feet, requiring adjustments to dive tables or computers to prevent decompression sickness. Check your equipment thoroughly—regulators, BCDs, and tanks should be serviced regularly, a service offered by all listed vendors. Finally, be mindful of local wildlife; while encounters are rare, respect the habitat of fish and occasional turtles. If you’re new to diving or it’s been over a year since your last dive, consider a refresher course to brush up on skills like buoyancy control and emergency procedures.

Scuba diving in the Phoenix region is a testament to Arizona’s ability to surprise and delight, turning a landlocked desert into a diver’s paradise. With excellent training from vendors like Sea 2 Sea, Salt & Sea, and Saguaro Scuba, and stunning venues like Lake Pleasant, Lake Mohave, and Canyon Lake, you’re well-equipped to explore this underwater world. Armed with the right precautions, your dive into these desert waters promises adventure, discovery, and a fresh perspective on the Phoenix landscape. So, gear up, dive in, and uncover the submerged secrets of the region—one bubble at a time.