If you're looking for real dive instruction and unforgettable scuba travel, Desert Reef Outfitters is the standard -- not just in West Texas, but anywhere I've dived. This isn't a "check-the-box" dive shop. The instructors here actually teach. They take the time to build confidence, solid fundamentals, and real-world skills -- whether you're brand new, continuing your training, or just want to be a better diver. Safety is never rushed, questions are always welcomed, and every student is treated like they matter (because they do). Training locations like Balmorhea / San Solomon Springs are used the right way -- not just to get certified, but to build comfort, buoyancy, awareness, and calm underwater. You can tell immediately that the focus is on producing capable, confident divers, not just issuing cards. Where Desert Reef really shines is community and travel. The shop attracts great people, and the trips are incredibly well run -- from logistics to dive planning to surface intervals full of laughs and stories. Whether it's a local weekend dive or a bucket-list destination, you feel supported, prepared, and part of the group the entire time. They're also phenomenal with families, youth divers, and anxious students. Patience, encouragement, and professionalism are the norm here -- not the exception. Bottom line: If you want top-tier instruction, a welcoming dive family, and scuba trips that actually deliver, Desert Reef Outfitters is the shop you want in your corner. I trust them with my dives, my family, and my travel -- and that says everything. read more

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I've been diving for over 24 years as a civilian and a a military diver. I hold multiple certifications in multiple agencies from an Open Water Diver to an Instructor in US Agencies and European agencies. This Dive Shop is, by far. one of the most professional shops I've had the pleasure of going to. The instructor, John, is a former military diver with over 20 years of experience. He brings knowledge and professionalism that very few locations offer. The patience with new students is amazing. I personally witnessed him teach a new diver who had an extreme fear of water, due to a near drowning in his youth, and coach him to be a highly skilled diver who is now working his way up the ladder. His staff of Divemasters are all highly qualified and very motivated and his sales personnel are extremely knowledgeable in every piece of gear in their store. They dive a minimum of three times a month, not just for students but for former students who want to maintain their proficiency or even to learn new skills. They always have something going on, to include dive trips to some of the most beautiful places in the world. Come in and talk to them about the past trips (believe me, they have pictures and videos) or talk about upcoming trips. They are also a full service shop for servicing gear, DOT hydrostatic tests on cylinders, visual inspection, and air refills. read more

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Best place in West Texas to learn to dive!!! Staff is amazing and very knowledgeable! read more

Desert Reef Outfitters - Scuba Diving Near Me - Midland, Texas

Some of the best, knowledgeable people you will ever meet! My husband and I have loved our experience with them very much. Excited to go diving!!! read more