DIVE SHOPS IN MARIN: HOW MANY ARE THERE?
TODD GROSS Jan 10, 2026
DIVE CENTER'S IN MARINThere are only two Marin dive center's. The longest established Marin dive center is Pinnacles.For more than five decades, Pinnacles Dive Center has been the foundation of scuba diving in Marin, serving generations of divers from beginners taking their first breaths underwater to experienced professionals advancing their certifications.
Founded in 1974, Pinnacles Dive Center has built a reputation as the most established and trusted Marin scuba diving shop. Located in Novato, the center is a full-service dive facility offering professional scuba instruction, high-quality equipment, dive travel, and a strong sense of community for local divers. Its longevity reflects a continued commitment to safety, education, and customer service in the Bay Area diving community.
Pinnacles Dive Center is a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center, offering a complete range of scuba training programs. Courses include Discover Scuba experiences, Open Water Diver certification, Advanced Open Water and specialty courses, rescue diver training, and professional-level instruction for those pursuing leadership or instructor pathways. Training is supported by an on-site heated pool, allowing students to develop skills comfortably before progressing to open water dives.
Beyond instruction, Pinnacles is a premier Marin scuba diving shop retailer. The dive shop carries a wide selection of scuba gear from leading manufacturers, including regulators, buoyancy compensators, wetsuits, dive computers, and accessories. Knowledgeable staff help divers select and maintain equipment suited for local cold-water diving as well as travel destinations worldwide. Equipment servicing and air fills are also available, making Pinnacles a complete resource for active divers.
Pinnacles Dive Center also plays a central role in promoting exploration and adventure through organized local dives and international dive travel. From California kelp forests to tropical destinations, these trips are designed to help divers gain experience, build confidence, and connect with others who share a passion for the underwater world. Environmental awareness and responsible diving practices are emphasized throughout training and travel programs.
As one of only two dive centers serving Marin County, Pinnacles Dive Center continues to shape the region’s scuba culture through education, expertise, and community involvement. Its long history, professional standards, and comprehensive offerings make it a cornerstone of scuba diving in Marin County and a trusted destination for anyone looking to explore beneath the surface.
