Tour
South Florida Diving Headquarters
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
South Florida Diving Headquarters is a premier dive center located on Riverside Drive in Pompano Beach, just steps from the Atlantic. Known for its friendly, professional staff and well-maintained gear, the shop caters to both beginners and experienced divers. They offer daily boat dives to nearby reefs, including the Pompano Beach Artificial Reef and the historic SS Copenhagen shipwreck. The experience includes a thorough briefing, surface interval snacks, and small group sizes for personalized attention. Inside, the shop has a full retail area with wetsuits, masks, and fins, plus a classroom for certification courses. The location is convenient, minutes from I-95 and the beach, making it a popular choice for visitors staying in Fort Lauderdale or Boca Raton. Whether you're a certified diver looking for a fun two-tank trip or a beginner wanting to try a Discover Scuba session, this headquarters delivers a safe, enjoyable adventure on the water.
Don't miss
- Two-tank morning dives to the SS Copenhagen wreck and nearby reefs
- PADI certification courses from Open Water to Rescue Diver
- Guided night dives to see octopus and lobsters
- Equipment rental and air fills available on-site
- Small groups (max 6 divers per guide) for personalized attention
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit South Florida Diving Headquarters
You can visit on your own (paid entry, check official site for dive package prices and course fees. book online to secure a spot, especially during peak season). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inDolphin & Sightseeing Cruise in Panama City Beach (1.5 hours)4.9★ · 281 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$32 per personSee dates →
Most bookedShell Island Snorkel and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise with Island Time4.9★ · 4,817 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$52 per personSee dates →
Private & flexible2-Hour Private Sightseeing Dolphin Tour in Panama City Beach4.9★ · 243 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$347 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and gear setup.
- Bring your certification card; rental gear requires a deposit.
- Check the weather, dives may be cancelled in high winds or lightning.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding; no sprays allowed on the boat.
A bit of history
Pompano Beach has been a diving destination since the 1950s, with artificial reefs created from ships and concrete structures. South Florida Diving Headquarters has served the community for decades, building a reputation for quality instruction and reef conservation.
Common questions
Do I need to be certified to dive?
Yes, for boat dives you need at least Open Water certification. However, they offer Discover Scuba experiences for uncertified beginners.
What is the typical water temperature?
Summer: 82–86°F (28–30°C); winter: 68–75°F (20–24°C). A 3mm wetsuit is recommended in winter.
Can I bring my own gear?
Absolutely. They have rinse tanks and storage. Tanks and weights are included in the dive package.
Is there a minimum age?
For boat dives, minimum age is 10 (with Junior Open Water certification). For courses, age varies by level.
What happens if the weather is bad?
They will cancel and either reschedule or refund. Check the morning of your dive.
Do they provide lunch?
Snacks and water are provided on the boat, but not a full lunch. Bring your own if needed.
More attractions in Pompano Beach