Mykonos: Beginner Scuba Dive at Lia Reef with Photos

Summary

Beginner scuba diving in Mykonos with expert guidance

You’ll suit up on Lia beach with a patient local instructor before slipping beneath the surface for your first ever scuba dive in Mykonos. Learn safety basics, explore the reef for nearly an hour, and come away with free underwater photos (and maybe a new favorite memory). It’s relaxed, safe, and surprisingly peaceful down there.

What’s the experience like?

Mask pressed gently to my face, I could hear my own breath echoing inside. Our instructor, Giorgos, handed me the regulator and grinned — he’d already guessed I was nervous. “Just like sipping through a straw,” he said, and honestly, it helped. The wetsuit felt snug but not uncomfortable, and the salty breeze off Lia beach mixed with sunscreen and something floral from someone’s towel nearby. We went through the basics on shore — how to clear your mask, what each piece of gear does — nothing rushed or intimidating.

The first few seconds underwater were strange — everything muffled except for my own bubbles and the distant clink of someone’s tank. Giorgos kept signaling “okay?” every minute or so. I nodded too much probably. Fish darted past in flashes of blue and yellow. At one point I forgot to keep kicking because I was just staring at a sea urchin clinging to a rock (they really do look like tiny black pincushions). The water was cooler than I expected but not cold — more like a soft shock that wakes you up.

We surfaced after what felt like both an instant and forever (the open water part is about 40 minutes). Back on land, Giorgos showed us some photos he’d taken underwater — there’s one where my eyes are huge behind the mask. I laughed seeing it; guess you can’t hide surprise underwater. I still think about that first big breath below the surface, how quiet it was compared to the chatter on shore. If you’re looking for a beginner’s day trip scuba diving in Mykonos, this is the one where you’ll actually remember how it felt.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Discover scuba diving at Lia reef

• Learn diving theory
• Understand diving equipment
• Practice diving exercises
• Open water dive at Lia reef
• Receive free underwater photos
• Get DAN scuba diving insurance

Top questions

Is this scuba diving course in Mykonos suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for first-timers with no prior experience required.

How long does the beginner scuba dive last?

The full program takes about 1.5 hours, including theory and a 40-45 minute open water dive at Lia reef.

Is equipment included in the price?

Yes, all scuba equipment is provided as part of your booking.

Are underwater photos included?

Yes, professional underwater photography is included free of charge.

Is insurance provided during the dive?

DAN Europe scuba diving insurance is included for all participants.

Where does the dive take place in Mykonos?

The open water dive happens at Lia reef.

Do I need to be physically fit to join?

The activity is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What if I have a medical condition?

You’ll need to complete a health questionnaire; some conditions may require doctor approval before diving.

What’s included

Your session includes use of all SCUBA equipment, bottled water to keep you hydrated before and after your dive at Lia reef, DAN Europe diving insurance for peace of mind throughout your experience, professional underwater photography so you don’t have to worry about bringing a camera yourself, plus instruction from a qualified PADI diving instructor who stays right by your side from start to finish.