A scuba-loving parent deserves amazing underwater adventures with their kids. If that’s you (a scuba diver parent), you’re in luck! There are lots of kid-friendly dive locations that cater to young divers and curious snorkelers. This article will take you from the reefs of the Caribbean to the jaw-dropping marine life of the Philippines, so rest assured those family dive trips are gonna be stellar.
Roatán, Honduras
Both these family-friendly dive resorts in Roatán take the stress out of traveling with kids, offering a slew of programs designed just for young adventurers.
Anthony’s Key Resort
For kids 5-7 years old, the Supplied Air Snorkeling for Youth (SASY) program provides a chance to float atop the water with a mini scuba setup. Absolutely no snorkel-induced panic here!
For slightly older kids around 8-9 years old, the PADI Bubblemaker program allows them to safely experience the magic of breathing underwater in depths no greater than six feet. As they take their first fin-kicks in the turquoise shallows, parents can dive deeper, exploring Roatán’s vibrant coral reefs.
Also, the resort has a Dolphin Scuba Camp that’s a hit, blending marine biology learning with hands-on experiences like swimming with dolphins. Even on land, the family vibe is strong! There are opportunities to lounge in tropical bliss or take a boat taxi to explore nearby towns.
Mayan Princess Beach & Dive Resort
Stepping into Mayan Princess Beach & Dive Resort means signing up for a luxurious family diving holiday. Oh, and a sprinkle of adventure. Situated on one of Roatán’s best beaches, this all-inclusive gem caters to divers of all ages.
Kids can ease into diving with beginner-friendly guided training sessions in calm, clear waters. And where will you be? Well, parents can enjoy deeper dives. And no big deal at all BTW, it’s just the world’s second-largest barrier reef. The resort’s 7-night dive packages are perfect for families: think a mix of relaxation and underwater exploration. Not into diving every day? No problem! Non-diving kids (or parents) can snorkel, lounge poolside, or even try a cooking class.
Philippines
Sangat Island Dive Resort
Combine world-class diving with a laid-back eco-friendly vibe. Full disclosure: the resort’s remote location may require a journey. We’re talking a minivan ride followed by a speedboat transfer, but the rewards are worth every bump in the road. Diver parents can explore stunning WWII shipwrecks meanwhile their kids aged 10 and up can earn their PADI Junior Open Water Certification.
The dive training for kids is as patient as it is thorough. In fact, it starts in a sandy-bottomed sea pool before graduating to shallow open-water dives. The instructors can make even the most nervous young divers feel at ease. While the kids perfect their buoyancy, parents can marvel at historical wrecks packed with marine life.
Liquid Dumaguete
Owned by parents who understand what traveling with kids means, this resort ensures every family member feels welcome. The resort offers the PADI Bubblemaker program for kids as young as 8 to the PADI Seal Team and Junior Open Water courses. So, there’s a perfect fit for every young one in this kid-friendly dive location.
The Bubblemaker program starts with playful fun in the resort’s saltwater pool. It eases kids into scuba with games and bubbles! For older kids, the Seal Team’s Aqua Missions teach skills like underwater navigation and buoyancy. Diver parents? Find world-class macro diving. See critters like nudibranchs and flamboyant cuttlefish right in the backyard!
Bonaire, Caribbean
Both these kid-friendly dive locations are sure to make any diver parent’s dream come true.
Harbour Village
Over in Harbour Village, it has its own on-site dive center, “Great Adventures Bonaire.” The place caters to divers of all levels, making it a fantastic spot for parents looking to share their underwater passion with their kids. While diver parents explore Bonaire’s world-class reefs, kids can join beginner-friendly dive courses. Or if they’re not feeling it that day, they can simply enjoy the stunning beach right at the resort’s doorstep.
For families with members who prefer to stay topside, Harbour Village offers plenty of other activities. Paddle through tranquil mangroves in a kayak or build sandcastles on the soft white sands.
Buddy Dive Resort
Set right on Bonaire’s beautiful waterfront, this resort makes underwater adventures accessible for all. Now that’s a family-friendly diving vacation spot! The on-site dive center and jetties are perfect for beginner divers and snorkelers. Everyone gets easy access to coral nurseries and shallows patrolled by giant tarpons — unsurprisingly a hit with the kids!
For parents, daily boat dives open up Bonaire’s legendary dive sites. While you go, kids can snorkel or splash in one of the two inviting pools with staff supervision. The resort’s thoughtful layout ensures everything is within reach. Spacious apartments with garden views make it easy to unwind. Plus, mornings come alive with hummingbirds flitting about as you sip bottomless coffee at the breakfast buffet. Did you just imagine it? Book a trip there now!
Cozumel, Mexico
Sunscape Sabor Cozumel
Get ready for Unlimited Fun® for families with divers and snorkelers alike. This all-inclusive kid-friendly dive location knows how to keep every family member happy. Everyone can spend all day exploring underwater caves or enjoying the kids’ club. Parents can dive into Cozumel’s crystal-clear waters, home to vibrant coral reefs, nurse sharks, and majestic eagle rays. Meanwhile, kids stay entertained with endless activities, like beach volleyball, bicycle tours, and more.
The resort itself is a haven for families. Rooms with private whirlpools and balconies make relaxing easy after a day of adventures. Oh, and foodies rejoice! The 24-hour dining options here mean no reservations, no wristbands, and no stress. And when you’re not in the water, unwind in the island’s only hydrotherapy circuit or hit the tennis courts for a quick game.
Allegro Cozumel
Allegro Cozumel has a pirate-themed waterpark pool, complete with slides and fountains. That alone will have kids giggling nonstop. Meanwhile, diver parents explore Cozumel’s world-famous reefs and caverns. Which are just a short boat ride away!
The resort’s thoughtful layout and thatch-roof villas create a cozy tropical vibe. Families can spread out in adjoining rooms or upgrade to spacious suites with hammocks for afternoon siestas. While parents dive or enjoy a quiet poolside escape, kids can stay busy at the Kid’s Club, play beach soccer, or even try windsurfing. Teens and young adults, too, have their pick of activities—like Spanish lessons or billiards.
Greece
Kalypso Cretan Village
Kalypso Cretan Village is nestled in a rugged cove along Crete’s southern coast. So, if that’s your vibe, then book ahead! The resort offers a diving experience unlike any other. You can even go shore diving straight into the Libyan Sea. With visibility of over 30 meters and a rich tapestry of marine life, including turtles, it’s the perfect place to introduce your kids to world of diving.
Between dives, parents and kids can explore the high peaks and mild climate with rock climbing, trekking, or mountain biking. And after a day of exploring (above or below water), families can recharge at the cliffside pools or savor Mediterranean delicacies al fresco.
Kalivaki Beach
Behold, Crete’s best-kept secret for families who want to dip their toes into diving. This serene bay is a haven for beginner divers. You get sandy shores, shallow waters, and crystal-clear visibility that invites even the youngest explorers to just dive in.
The diving program at Kalivaki is tailored to first-timers. So, it’s perfect for parents who want to share their love of the ocean with their kids. From the moment you arrive, the friendly instructors ensure your family feels safe and excited. All with a detailed briefing on scuba basics. The experience is stress-free and immersive, with groups kept small (just four divers per guide), allowing plenty of personal attention.
Kid-friendly dive locations are for everyone.
Listen, parents. As much as it is for the kids, it’s for you, too. Everyone deserves a good family getaway where everyone can bond over the same thing together. Plus, the beaches (or pools) are wonderful places to relax in! It’s like… it’s all a win-win.
Pick one (or multiple) from this list of kid-friendly dive locations. Don’t forget to bring essential dive gear and cameras (of course, to look back on the memories later on!).
