A huge thank you to DM/Instructor Lisa Beach and Scuba by Design for an outstanding two-dive guided experience at Catalina's Casino Point Dive Park. The rental equipment was top-notch and in like-new condition. It was also our first experience diving a backplate/wing BCD system, and Lisa took the time to explain everything without ever making us feel rushed. The entire experience felt like a high-end concierge dive service. She guided my son and me through the best areas of the dive park and kelp forest, making sure we didn't miss any of the highlights. After our second dive, she carefully reviewed our logbooks and certifications and confirmed that we had completed all the requirements for our PADI Master Scuba Diver certifications. It was the perfect way to finish our journey. Highly recommended! read more

Scuba by Design - Kelp forest - Scuba Diving Near Me - Avalon, California

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I had a great time diving with my 11 year old son. Lisa was very helpful and watched him closely so I could enjoy the dive. Thank you! It was a wonderful day! read more

I just did 5 amazing dives with Lisa and Scuba Zack along with my daughter who was getting her PADI advanced open water certification. They were kind and total professionals from start to finish. They have a great setup with everything you could want just steps from entering the water. We even did a night dive that was an experience we will never forget. It was fun and felt safe the entire time. I look forward to coming back and diving with Scuba By Design in the future. read more

I really wanted this to be a positive experience, because this was a birthday activity for my sister and me. I chose Scuba by Design because of its excellent reviews, so it was disappointing that our experience was so different. I want to start by saying Lisa was friendly and knowledgeable during the classroom portion of the lesson. She clearly has experience and I appreciated the time she took to explain the basics before we entered the water. Unfortunately, once we got into the ocean, the experience changed . As first-time divers together, we expected patience and calm instruction. Instead, we often felt rushed and corrected in a way that came across as frustrated. We had difficulty descending, even after adjustments were made to our equipment. Instead of helping us understand what was happening, we were repeatedly asked, 'Do you even want to scuba dive?' That was discouraging because the issue wasn't a lack of interest, we genuinely wanted to participate, we just didn't understand why we weren't descending properly. There were also several moments where we felt we were being physically pulled or repositioned without much explanation, and whenever we tried to help each other or instinctively used our hands while swimming, we were corrected in a tone that felt more like scolding than teaching. One comment especially stuck with me. When I said I didn't remember scuba diving being this difficult compared to my previous class years ago, I was told, 'Honey, you're not 18 anymore.' Whether intended as a joke or not, I found that unnecessary and unprofessional. At 35 years old, I didn't feel my age had anything to do with the situation. Because we felt so uncomfortable, we decided not to continue the dive, and switched to snorkeling instead. I appreciate being given that option, but it wasn't the experience we had hoped or paid for. We didn't get to go through the kelp forest after all :( .It was my sister's first scuba experience, and I had been so excited to introduce her to something I thought she would love, but we both left feeling discouraged instead of inspired. I'm not writing this review to attack anyone or argue with the business. My hope is simply that this feedback encourages more patience, better communication and a more supportive teaching style for beginners. Learning a new skill can be stressful, and instructors have a huge impact on whether students leave feeling confident or defeated. Based on my experience, I'd recommend first-time divers consider a company that emphasizes patient instruction and positive encouragement. I hope Scuba by Design takes this feedback constructively, because I believe a few changes in communication could make a significant difference for future beginner divers. read more

I booked this for my daughter and husband. I met Lisa the day before as I was out on a walk and decided to check out where they would be. Fantastic set-up...the nicest one of the whole dive park. They had a fantastic time with Lisa, going all over and seeing giant black bass and more. Perfect experience. Lisa sent some great videos of them as well. I highly recommend her. Oh and her equipment is top notch and in perfect condition. (They've had torn wetsuits at other places) read more

Scuba by Design - Diving - Scuba Diving Near Me - Avalon, California

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Came to celebrate our anniversary by blowing bubbles. Lisa was incredible. She was understanding and patient. 10/10 would recommend to anyone, first time divers or certified. Scuba by Design makes diving so easy for anyone visiting the island. They provide everything you could need! I was so grateful I didn't have to worry about bringing any gear. Thanks Lisa! read more

Scuba by Design - Scuba Diving Near Me - Avalon, California

Thank you so much for the unforgettable scuba lesson! Our whole family had such a great time, and we truly appreciated your patience, professionalism, and the fun, relaxed atmosphere you created. From the moment we arrived, you made us feel safe and confident--especially those of us who were a bit nervous at first! It was such a special experience to explore underwater together as a family, and we'll carry those memories with us for a long time. Thanks again for making our dive both educational and exciting. We're already talking about when we can again! read more

This shop is absolutely the best. For a very reasonable price, you can rent all your gear, and have an excellent guide curate the exact dive experience you are looking for. You only dive with the people you bring with you, and aren't stuck in a big group with varying priorities. Lisa was our guide and she was incredibly helpful. Our kit and weights were optimized with her help, and she gave us tips throughout the experience to help us improve our skills. This would be the perfect place to get you open water and advanced open water certification. Lisa is a born teacher. Our original plan had been to do 3 dives on day 1, ending with a night dive, then 2 more dives on day 2. I got a bit seasick on dive 2 and Lisa allowed us to change our plan to do 3 dives on day 2. It worked out great. The entry couldn't be more perfect. It's an easy ramp in and out of the water and the site is gorgeous. The kelp forest glitters while the sun filters down in sunbeams that dance in the water. The biodiversity is abundant and you will find golden Garibaldi, neon colored nudibranchs, camouflaged octopuses, lurking giant sea bass, soaring bat rays... and so much more. We can't wait to go back out with our new buddy Lisa. read more

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Lisa recently certified my 13-year-old son and we could not have had a better experience. First, Scuba By Design's concierge service was excellent. The staging area Lisa set up was comfortable, warm drinks and a water cooler were on-hand and ready each morning and she brought all the gear my son would need with backup sizes in case something didn't fit well. This was especially helpful because his mask did not sit right on his face and she had multiple options for him to try so he was comfortable. She was also incredibly patient and her topside instruction was detailed and came at a pace that made sense to him. Once in the water, Lisa was able to make sure he was comfortable with skills before moving on to the next set. It was a wonderful experience, one we will never forget. read more

The best thing was hearing my grandson say it was the best day of his life! My daughter gave permission and we made it happen. Lisa was so patient and kind. She provided shade, water and seating. There was even a little shower to rinse off your face and small items. I highly recommend Lisa with Scuba By Design! Lisa has a purple BCD .....very cool! She is so cute and a strong diver. Now Eli has a dream to be certified at scuba. read more

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Lisa was an amazing teacher for my wife and I. Super easy going, one on one training, time is not a factor. My wife was new to Scuba Diving and got anxious, but Lisa made sure to keep her at ease, and we got up and running and swimming the amazing Kelp Forests within a few hours. She also helped myself retrain my brain after not diving for 15 years. Such and amazing experience, Thank you Lisa! read more

I went diving with Lisa in July and had a great experience. I would highly recommend. I don't dive often and I am trying to gain more experience and confidence diving and she provided the perfect space for that. The set up is easy, her explanations are great, and just an overall positive experience. I would definitely recommend. read more

Lisa is absolutely amazing! So amazing that I booked twice. I'm active duty army stationed in Long Beach. I was looking for some excitement locally and discovered Scuba by Design with Lisa. I first booked discover scuba. She took me on my first official dive and I have been obsessed ever since! I came back to get certified as a scuba diver. Lisa is the only person I will book with. She is so professional and experienced. Everything is included all you need to do is show up. Even the discover scuba is logged on the PADI website so I received credit. I am so happy I went on this journey i wouldn't have been able to do this with anyone else. Her setup at Casino Point in Avalon is top tier. She making diving fun. I've learned so much and can't wait to share my experience with others. read more

Scuba by Design - Setup at the Casino Point Dive Park preparing to get certified! - Scuba Diving Near Me - Avalon, California

On February 28, 2024 I was scheduled to arrive and to meet with Lisa (Instructor) from Scuba by design at 0600.I missed my departure time, thereafter I called to inform her of my situation. She was very kind, patient, understanding and accommodating throughout the entire process. She completely went above and beyond to ensure that I completed my experience at scuba by design with a smile. I highly recommend this small business to all individuals singles, couples and families. You will not be disappointed with the experience you receive at this location. Additionally, Lisa took the time in taking pictures and creating priceless memories on my experience. Thank you Scuba by design % read more

Scuba by Design - Scuba by design - Scuba Diving Near Me - Avalon, California

I could not have asked for a better instructor for my first scuba diving experience. Lisa is WONDERFUL. Scuba diving has been a long dream of mine and my husband booked us for my 30th birthday. It was a private dive starting at 8 and you're given up to two dives. Lisa was so thorough in her instructions and learning skills was a breeze. As much as I love the ocean, I am a baby when it comes to cold water -- but with the 7mm wet suits, it did not even faze me. Her gear was top tier. I had no idea how heavy scuba gear was, but compared to the gear I saw other companies using it was clear Lisa's was the best. She was extremely knowledgeable and so understanding of any concerns or fears you could have as a first time diver. Not once did she ever make us feel silly or dumb. She was soooo kind especially since during our first dive I happened to kick both my flippers off LOL and then my husband got nauseous. She let us come out, reset, and even got me a birthday cake!!! Our second dive was incredible. We got 30 minutes at 40 ft deep!!! It started raining and we saw the rain hitting the surface which was sooo cool (I do not like the rain but now have newfound appreciation for it). Saw awesome underwater landmarks, tons of garibaldi, even an eel! We can't wait to be back for certification. I cannot recommend Lisa enough. I wish I could leave 10 stars! Thank you so much for an unforgettable experience. read more

Scuba by Design - Scuba Diving Near Me - Avalon, California

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If you're looking to try scuba, THIS is the place to do it. Lisa was the absolute best teacher. I had two friends that wanted to try it out, and took the "Discover Scuba" course. Lisa our instructor went above and beyond to make the adventure special. We had two wonderful dives. In addition, the private staging area was perfect. Shade, water and seating. The rental gear was also high end and top-notch. I cannot recommend this place enough!! read more

We did a private dive with Lisa and she was the best guide ever! Communication for scheduling was great! The gear provided was awesome and everything was set up for us. We had amazing dives and she was knowledgeable about the dive site and made all of our group of varying skill levels feel comfortable! read more

I grew up in Florida always in the ocean but primarily swimming off the back of the boat. I didn't snorkel until I was 32 and at 37 I decided to tackle scuba diving. I have always struggled a little with anxiety and some of the skills required to become certified really got me in my head. I have no doubt a regular dive shop would have said ...but not Lisa. She's patient and chill but makes sure you're safe in the water. We adapted many of the skills in ways that worked best for ME so I'm confident if I need to execute them during a dive. This is not a one size fits all teaching method but rather one tailored to the individual student. The experience isn't even comparable to certifying in a group with a dive shop. I saw their set up- a large group getting minimal individual instructor time and you're just out in the open all your stuff on the ground. Scuba by Design is a professional and comfortable experience. Lisa provides a whole set up- a tent, chairs, beverages, sun protection and high end quality equipment to learn with. Everything we used was intentionally and thoughtfully chosen for us . Lisa helped me reach my goal of experiencing the water from below and I couldn't be more appreciative. If you want to learn in a comfortable setting using quality gear and learning to be a competent diver, Lisa is the way to go. read more

Scuba by Design - After seeing my first giant sea bass! Note the nice space we have to relax on our surface intervals. Fresh water to rinse off and shade. - Scuba Diving Near Me - Avalon, California

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I was initially referred to Lisa by a friend after starting my Open Water certification with someone else and not having a great experience. I thought maybe scuba diving just wasn't my jam but my friend convinced me that I should give it another try and I had my already completed coursework transferred over to Lisa so that I could attempt to finish my certification with her. Well, I did finish. I also went back and finished my Advanced Open Water with Lisa as well. As it turns out, scuba diving IS my jam and I have Lisa to thank for the many scuba adventures I have embarked on and already have planned in the future. Lisa knows her stuff, as you would expect of a scuba instructor. What I think sets her apart is her calm, confident energy and her ability to adapt her instruction to each individual diver. I get extremely cold, have poor circulation in my hands, and my mask was frequently leaking (initially) which resulted in some anxiety. Lisa was patient, encouraging, and went above and beyond to help me problem solve so I was not only able to complete the required dives but I genuinely enjoyed them. Lisa's company, Scuba by Design, is head and shoulders above the rest. The set up is amazing with the tents, showers, and catering. At this point, I have my own equipment and I've rented from many other places so I can say without a doubt that Lisa's scuba gear is top notch. The DPVs she has are unlike any I'd seen. I highly recommend Lisa and Scuba by Design. I look forward to continuing my dive education with her in the future! read more

I booked a 2-tank dive tour with Scuba by Design for my husbands birthday and wow, it did not disappoint! Lisa was thoughtful, friendly, and informative from start to finish. When we first booked it she offered to help surprise my husband with a birthday cake between dives. On dive day, she told us all about the history of the island and dive park, gave us recommendations for gear, helped us with buoyancy in the water, had tea and water ready for us, and had a tent/chair/gear set up that I can only describe as luxurious! Later on our trip she even sent us video footage from our dive! I would 100% recommend diving with Scuba by Design and will be doing it again my next time on the island. read more

I am a very new Scuba diver, (2 Open Water dives after certification) when I dove with Lisa from Scuba By Design, She was patient and understanding, explained everything to me and basically on the first dive it was like a private scuba diving lesson! I was able to put into practice what we practiced on the second dive! She helped me with Buoyancy control and gas consumption, I was able to extend my gas time by 6 minutes on the second dive! I will be returning with my entire family 2 scuba divers and 2 snorkelers may even try to convince my daughter to take a try scuba class with Lisa she was amazing if it were possible I would give them 100 stars! I will be a lifetime customer! read more

We had a wonderful day diving with Lisa at the marine park at Casino Point. We saw many rare and beautiful sea creatures and explored the kelp forest. The equipment was clean and well maintained. Lisa is very knowledgeable and experienced and was able to navigate the marine park despite a strong current and crowds. We would dive with her again and hope to explore other sites around Catalina! read more

We had an amazing time with Lisa, she was the most patient and awesome instructor! Both my friend and I hadn't been scuba diving in a while, so we booked a refresher dive. Lisa was so thorough in explaining us everything we needed to know to feel safe but also didn't spend more time than necessary keeping us out of the water. All of her equipment was very well maintained and top of the line in terms of safety standards and quality. Diving at the dive site was amazing, we saw beautiful kelp forests with abundant wildlife, and in the break between dives Lisa had beverages ready for us and there was even the option to order food as well. I wanted to keep some memories from this dive so I brought my go pro, but I did not even have to worry about that because Lisa was prepared and got photos and videos from us during/after the dive with her own camera. All in all it was an incredible experience and we couldn't have wished for a better instructor! Hope we will make it back soon for another dive with Lisa. read more