Are you interested in scuba diving in Houston, but not sure where to start? Look no further – this guide has everything you need to know! From certification classes to the best diving spots in the area, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more about scuba diving in Houston and how to get started.
Table of Contents
Why It Is Great for Scuba Diving in Houston
Scuba diving in Houston is great for a number of reasons.
- The city is located on the Gulf Coast, meaning there are various scuba diving sites to choose from.
- Houston has a number of dive shops and schools, so it is easy to find someone to help you get started with scuba diving.
- The weather in Houston is typically warm and sunny, which makes it perfect for scuba diving.
The Best Spots and Dive Sites in Houston
There are many great spots for scuba diving in Houston. Here are some of the best:
288 Lake
288 Lake is one of Houston’s most popular spots for scuba diving. This man-made lake was created in the 1970s and is now a popular place for scuba diving and snorkeling. The clear waters and lack of currents make it a perfect place to explore underwater. There are many sunken objects to see, including an airplane and a school bus!
Sugar Land
Sugar Land is home to several amazing dive sites. It is one of the largest spots for scuba diving in Houston, and offers big pelagic sea life, dolphins, stingrays, starfish, crabs and much more. The lake also offers clear water, making it a great place for scuba diving.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake is a man-made lake located in north Houston. It was created in the 1960s for the purpose of providing water to the city. The lake is approximately two miles long and one mile wide. It is depth is about 20 feet. Spring Lake is home to a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and perch. There are also several dive sites located around the lake.
One of the most popular dive sites at Spring Lake is the North Dock. This site is located at the north end of the lake near where the inflows from Cypress Creek and Spring Creek meet. The North Dock offers a variety of dive options, including a deep wall dive, a shallow reef dive, and a swim-through cave dive. There is also an artificial reef located at this site. The North Dock is a great place to see a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and perch. The South Dock is another great place to see a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and perch.
Lake Travis
Lake Travis is one of the most popular diving spots in Houston, Texas. The lake is home to a variety of fish and other aquatic life, making it a perfect place for both beginner and experienced divers. There are also a number of sunken objects in the lake, including a plane and a car, that make for interesting dives.
Reveille Peak Ranch
Reveille Peak Ranch is a beautiful diving spot located in the heart of Texas. This spot is perfect for those who want to experience something a little different, as it offers a more naturalistic diving experience. The quarry you will find there is home to a variety of fish and other aquatic creatures incl. turtles, making it a great place to go for a swim and explore. There are also plenty of trees and vegetation to provide shade and shelter from the sun during your dives.
Best Dive Shops in Houston
If you’re looking for the best dive shops in Houston, here are a few great options:
- Texas Dive Center offers a variety of courses for all levels of experience, from beginner to advanced. They also have a wide range of equipment for rent or purchase.
- Divetech is another great option for scuba diving in Houston. They offer both group and private lessons, as well as charter dives for those who want to explore the area’s many dive sites and shipwrecks. They also have a retail store where you can purchase all the gear you need.
- Gulf Coast Scuba is a great resource for anyone interested in scuba diving or oceanography. In addition to offering classes and charters, they run a retail store selling everything you need for scuba diving.
Some Interesting Facts About Houston
- With an anticipated population of 2.3M as of the 2019 census, Houston ranks as both the most populous city in Texas and the fourth most populous city in the United States.
- Houston was established on August 30, 1836, by Augustus Chapman Allen and John Kirby Allen, two brothers who purchased a plot of property near Buffalo Bayou. It was named after Sam Houston, who was president of the Texas Republic at the time.
- When it comes to international waterborne tonnage handled, the Port of Houston is number one in the United States, and when it comes to overall cargo tonnage handled, it is number two.
- Houston, often referred to as “Space City,” is a cultural and scientific powerhouse on the international stage. More than 940 parks and 170 miles (270 km) of trails may be found throughout the city. The City of Houston manages two municipal courses, Memorial Park Golf Course and Hermann Park Golf Course, and the surrounding area has more than 500 public tennis courts.
Prices You Can Expect Per Dive with Dive Shops in Houston
The average price for a one-tank dive with a dive shop in Houston is around $60. This price includes the cost of the tank, weight, and Divemaster. If you want to add on additional dives, the add-on cost is usually around $50 per dive.
There are a few things that can affect the price of your dive, such as the time of year and the type of dive shop you use. Some dive shops offer discounts for students, military, seniors, and AAA members.
How to Pack for a Scuba Vacation in Houston
You’ll want to pack light since most airlines have a 50-pound weight limit for luggage. A small rolling suitcase or duffel bag should do the trick.
As for what to pack, your first priority should be scuba gear. If you don’t own your own, you can always rent gear at most dive shops. But even if you’re renting, there are a few personal items you’ll need to bring: a bathing suit, sunscreen, sunglasses, towel, and perhaps a wetsuit if you get cold easily.
Other than that, Houston is a pretty casual city, so pack clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in. And since the weather is fairly hot and humid year-round, make sure to pack light, airy fabrics that won’t make you sweat.
Finally, don’t forget your camera! Scuba diving provides some of the most incredible photo opportunities out there. So, make sure to bring along an underwater camera or housing for your regular camera to capture all the amazing things you’ll see on your scuba vacation in Houston.
Things to Consider Before Going on a Scuba Diving Vacation in Houston
Before scuba diving in Houston, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the weather can be quite hot and humid, so it is important to stay hydrated. Second, the currents can be strong, so it is important to be a strong swimmer and have the proper fins. Third, there are many shipwrecks and reefs to explore, so it is important to have some experience in scuba diving before exploring them. Lastly, there are many different dive shops in Houston, so it is important to do some research and choose one that is right for you.
Where Should You NOT Dive in Houston?
There are many scuba diving locations in Houston, but there are also a few places where you should not dive. These areas are typically posted with signs or have some type of warning to scuba divers.
The most dangerous place to scuba dive in Houston is the San Jacinto River. This river is full of debris and has a strong current. It is also home to alligators, which can be very dangerous.
What To Do When Not Scuba Diving in Houston?
If you’re not scuba diving in Houston, there are still plenty of things to do! Here are some ideas of what to do when not scuba diving in Houston:
- Visit one of Houston’s many museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts or the Space Center Houston
- Take a walk or bike ride through one of Houston’s many parks, such as Hermann Park or Memorial Park
- Check out some of Houston’s unique neighborhoods, like Montrose or The Heights
- Explore the downtown area and check out attractions like Discovery Green or Market Square
- Sample some of the delicious food Houston has to offer, from Tex-Mex to Cajun cuisine
FAQ
Where is Houston?
Houston is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Texas and the fourth most populous city in the United States, with a census-estimated 2019 population of 2.3M. It is the most populous city in the Southern United States and on the Gulf Coast of the United States.
Located in Southeast Texas near Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, it is Houston’s nickname is Space City and has been named one of the most diverse cities in America.
What type of climate does Houston have?
Houston’s climate is classified as humid subtropical. The city experiences hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. Houston is located in the Gulf of Mexico, which gives the city a warm climate year-round.
The average temperature in Houston is 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit). The water temperature in Houston ranges from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius (64 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit), depending on the season.
What is the water temperature in Houston?
The water temperature in Houston is typically around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It varies depending on the time of year and the weather conditions – it ranges from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius (64 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit).
What is the best time of year to scuba dive in Houston?
The best time to scuba dive in Houston is from April to June. The water temperatures during this time are comfortable for most people and the visibility is good. There are also a variety of fish and other marine life to see during these months.
Does Houston have good scuba diving?
Yes, Houston has good scuba diving! There are many dive sites to choose from, ranging from beginner to advanced. No matter what your level of experience, there’s a dive site in Houston that’s perfect for you!
Are there sharks in Houston?
The simple answer is no – there are no sharks in Houston. In fact, the only place you’re likely to see a shark in Texas is in an aquarium or on a TV show.
That’s not to say there aren’t any dangerous creatures in the waters around Houston. Alligators are present in some of the lakes and bayous, and while they generally keep to themselves, it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings when diving in these areas.
Do I need a diving certificate to scuba dive in Houston?
No, by law you are not required to have a diving certificate to scuba dive in Houston. However, we strongly recommend that you get a scuba diving course from a certified instructor before you dive on your own.
What are the pros and cons of scuba diving in Houston?
There are many scuba diving locations in Houston, but not all of them are equal. Some spots are better for beginners while others may be better suited for experienced divers. Additionally, the time of year can also affect the quality of the diving experience. For example, visibility is often better in the spring and fall due to lower water temperatures and less algae growth.
That being said, there are definitely some pros and cons to scuba diving in Houston. Let’s take a look at a few of them:
Pros:
- Many scuba diving locations to choose from
- Diving conditions can be good year-round
- Water temperature is generally comfortable
- You can see a variety of marine life
Cons:
- Visibility can sometimes be low, especially in quarries and lakes
- Some areas can be crowded with other divers
Final Thoughts
After reading this guide, we hope you feel more prepared and excited to take on scuba diving in Houston! As we mentioned before, there is an abundance of things to see and do underwater, so you’re sure to have a blast. Be sure to heed the safety tips we shared so that you can dive worry-free. And lastly, don’t forget to have fun!
