This was my first time visiting Costa Rica and I chose the area (Playas del Coco) based on the diving suggestions. Once I’d chosen the area, I researched the dive shops operating in the area.
The first thing that I liked about Rich Coast that set it apart from the other shops was they offered accommodation suggestions. Not only that but they offered to help set up your stay. I didn’t use them but did go with one of the hotels they recommended.
Rich Coast was easy to communicate with, both through email and WhatsApp. They were quick to respond and every time, they were friendly and professional.
Their dive shop is well stocked with a combination of retail clothing and gear. There is a lot of ScubaPro and Cressi. Probably more but I had my own gear so I wasn’t looking around too much.
Cost of dives are great, standard 2-tanks with some excursion options depending on time of year.
They load your gear and take it out to the boats while you and your group walk the short pleasant distance to the beach where boats pick you up at the shore and ferry you to your dive boat.
Most dives are just 10-15 minutes from the shore. However, the seascape is very different in each area, from tall canyon-like dives, to open reefs, to wrecks. All of these had plenty of sea creatures to entertain!
There were so many white tip reef sharks just hanging out on the seafloor or lazily swimming around. They didn’t bother anyone and scooted away if approached. Huge bait balls of Jack, too many fish to count, eels, rays…lots of beauty under the water around there.
Our dive guides were so pleasant while maintaining their professionalism. It is obvious they love what they do and want you to have the best time. One thing they do that I loved that I’ve only experienced at Dive Destination vacations is having multiple guides on the dive. They set this up so everyone can enjoy their dives regardless of skill level. No one has the same breath consistency so they’ve set it up that if anyone needs to surface before everyone has used up their air, one of the guides would lead that person or persons back to the boat while the rest of the group was able to continue with the dive. This was so appreciated!
Once the dives are done, the guides go through the debriefing as you head back. You and your group walk back to the shop while your gear is handled by the staff. They was and hang all your stuff to dry. I was diving multiple days so they had no problem with me leaving my gear for the duration of my stay. This allowed all my gear to dry before I packed it up.
Now, another thing I really love! Instead of tipping each person individually (which you can) they have a tip tank at the shop. Put yours tips in there an it all gets divvied up. No hassle, no having to pull out money on the boat to tip the crew and captain.
Rich Coast was one of the best dive shops I have had the privilege of using. They are professional, their shop, gear, boats, etc. are well kept and maintained and they are passionate about diving and excited to show you what’s out beyond the shore.
I cannot recommend them highly enough. I will be back and I will use Rich Coast again. – via 
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