Hyères is a city in the Var department, in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. The city is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, 10 miles (16 km) east of Toulon, near the mouth of the Gapeau river.

If you dive in Hyères you will discover an undeniable peacefulness and the pleasure of discovery. Our city, like its grandeur, the Mediterranean, is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in the world. Diving is a must-do activity in Hyères as it remains the most popular sport on almost all the beaches and islands of this place. Moreover, the environment seems go along with this exercise. Dive in the waters of Hyères, whatever your level is, and you won’t regret it.

Where are the best diving sites in Hyères?

The best diving sites in the Hyères region are easily accessible, in the south of France. The coast of Hyères, from Pointe de Giens to Port Cros National Park, is home to some of the best diving sites in the region. A great place to swim and relax on the most beautiful beaches of the Côte d'Azur.

Here are some of the must-see diving sites in Hyères:

• Les Écueils de Nidan: they are located south of the Gien peninsula and are one of the most open diving sites in Hyères. It is known for the richness of underwater species and is a stone's throw from the tip of Escampobariou. As it is shallow, it is ideal for beginners of level 1 or baptisms and first dives.

• The Olbia Archaeological Route: The Olbia Archaeological Route, located just below Hyères, is an unmissable site in the region, offering an underwater site through gigantic stone blocks, the remains of a Roman pier and the Greco-Roman archaeological site of the Olbia fortress. A diving trip to Hyères in Olbia will allow you to get to know the local underwater creatures and flora, as well as the remains of a ship (wreck).

• The sites of the golden islands: the coastline of Hyères is preserved and specially protected, as it is part of the oldest marine park in France, the National Parc de Port-Cros, named after the central island of the archipelago of the Golden Islands. Swim around the island of Port-Cros to observe schools of barracuda and groupers at one of the best dive sites in Hyères.

There are several additional diving sites in Hyères; wherever you go, you will find an instructor or PADI center to help you. Don't forget to adapt in diving schools according to your level!

What kind of diving courses to choose in Hyères?

Make your first dive in one of our centers in Hyères and let yourself be surprised by the marine wealth that this town offers. During your diving baptism, which will last about thirty to forty minutes, the instructors will manage your equipment and will take care of your balance and your safety.

There are several levels of training, ranging from first dives to PADI instructor certification. Many organizations, such as dive centers and diving schools, have joined the group to take advantage of its international reputation.

In Hyères, you can take a variety of courses aimed at both beginner and expert divers:

- The most frequent PADI diploma, level 1 "Padi Open Water", corresponds to the first level of FFESSM diving. It will allow you to dive up to 20 meters with a state certified guide integrating theory and practice of diving. The Giens peninsula is a relatively accessible site since level 1 divers can dive there. There is no current and the deepest depth is 20 meters. Beginners go there frequently to pass their Padi Open Water certification.

- Level 2 "Padi Advanced Open Water": The PADI Advanced Open Water is the next step in your PADI Open Water experience. With this certification, you can dive up to 30 meters even at night! The training lasts several days and the main objective is to learn how to navigate underwater. The bottom of the port of Giens, in Fourmigues, is also rocky, with depths up to 40 meters. This dive site is recommended for level 2 divers.

- Level 3 "Padi Rescue Diver": First aid training in diving is the definition of the PADI Rescue Diver. One of the most exciting PADI courses, you will learn how to respond to various rescue scenarios, handle emergency equipment and manage stress. With a depth of 44 meters, the Ville de Grasse is ideal for level 3 divers. Take the opportunity to visit the wreck of this historic ship of the Grasse-Cannes company!

- Level 4 "Padi Dive Master": Do you want to make a living doing what you love the most? If so, don't worry. This course is the consecration for amateur divers, as it is now the first level of certification for professionals. With this training, you will be able to supervise new divers at an international level.

Discover the best places to dive in Hyères during your visit to the Côte d'Azur. The nearby seabed is rich in wrecks and rocky drop-offs, with fish, gorgonians and other species just a few meters from the surface.

Book now your scuba diving course in Hyères!