Adventure brief
Advanced Open Water Diver Course
Step beyond basic diving skills with Rich Coast Diving’s Advanced Open Water Diver Course in Coco, Costa Rica. Choose five specialty adventure dives and deepen your underwater expertise over three thrilling days.
Rich Coast Diving delivers an immersive gateway into advanced scuba adventures off Costa Rica's Pacific coast, anchored in the vibrant town of Coco, Guanacaste Province. Renowned for its warm waters and diverse marine ecosystems, this stretch of coastline offers some of the country’s most compelling underwater landscapes. Rich Coast Diving’s 3-day SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Course invites divers to deepen their skills while sampling specialized dive profiles tailored to five exhilarating adventure dives.
Set against a backdrop of rugged volcanic coastlines and coral-studded reefs, the course is customizable with options like deep wreck exploration, precision buoyancy practice, and underwater photography. Students chart a distinct path within their dive training, developing advanced competencies that lay the foundation for future certification specialties. The chance to penetrate historic wreck sites or capture the iridescent marine life on camera adds a dynamic edge to the curriculum.
Coco itself acts as a lively hub for outdoor recreation. The town’s proximity to vibrant coral reefs and an array of dive sites—ranging from dramatic drop-offs to gentle reefs thick with tropical fish—makes it an excellent base for adventure travel. With Rich Coast Diving’s experienced instructors, safety and personalized guidance are cornerstones, ensuring divers of intermediate skill can push their limits responsibly.
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a standout marine destination, known for its conservation efforts that protect species like hammerhead sharks and colorful reef fish, offering divers a rich ecological classroom beneath the surface. Rich Coast Diving’s commitment to sustainable diving practices helps preserve these underwater environments while fostering a community of knowledgeable, adventurous divers. Whether you aim to refine your buoyancy control or unlock new depths at wreck sites, the Advanced Open Water Diver Course at Rich Coast Diving sets you on course for meaningful, lasting underwater experiences in one of Costa Rica’s premier dive regions.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Choose Adventure Dives Wiselyinfo
Select dives that match your interests and skill level, such as wreck exploration or underwater photography, for a tailored experience.
- 02Check Your Gear Before Each Diveessential
Ensure all diving equipment is properly maintained and fits well to maximize comfort and safety underwater.
- 03Stay Hydrated and Restedessential
Costa Rica’s tropical climate demands proper hydration and rest to prevent dehydration and fatigue, especially when diving multiple days.
- 04Respect Marine Life and Local Regulationswarning
Maintain safe distances from wildlife and follow guidelines to protect these delicate ecosystems during your dives.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Mask, Snorkel, and Fins
Well-fitting gear enhances comfort and visibility during all dives.
EssentialDive Computer
Tracks depth and bottom time to safely manage dive profiles.
EssentialUnderwater Camera
Ideal for capturing vivid sea life during the underwater photography adventure dive.
Wetsuit (3-5mm)
Protects against cooler water temps and offers skin protection.
allEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Tiburon Marine Park dive sites, Isla del Coco snorkeling spots
Local fauna
Hammerhead sharks, Colorful tropical reef fish
Historic heritage
The Guanacaste coast has long been a hub for fishing and marine biodiversity, now protected as part of Costa Rica’s growing conservation efforts.
Mindful exploration
Rich Coast Diving adheres to eco-friendly diving practices to minimize impact on delicate reef systems and endangered marine species.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Wreck sites, Coral pinnacles, Cave swim-throughs
- Subjects
- Schooling fish, Color-rich coral formations, Historic wreck structures
- Best times
- Mid-morning, Golden hour underwater, Early afternoon for clear visibility
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need to be certified to take this course?
Yes, a basic Open Water Diver certification is required before enrolling in the Advanced Open Water Diver Course.
How deep will the dives go during the course?
The advanced dives include deep dives up to 30 meters (100 feet), depending on the chosen specialties.
Is underwater photography equipment provided?
Participants are encouraged to bring their own camera gear, but some rentals may be available upon request.
What safety measures are in place during dives?
All dives are guided by certified instructors who enforce strict safety protocols including buddy systems and pre-dive briefings.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 5 days before the course receive a 50% refund; no refunds after that.
Are there opportunities for further specialty courses after this one?
Yes, upon completion, divers can pursue specialties such as wreck diving, night diving, and more through Rich Coast Diving.