Business Details
48 Years
experience
Scuba Diving & Swim Lessons Virginia Beach
Since 1978, Lynnhaven Dive Center has been Virginia Beach's premier destination for scuba diving instruction and swim education. Founded by Big Mike Hillier and now led by his daughter Lindsey Hillier and husband Scott Hotchkiss, our family-owned business combines decades of expertise with a commitment to safety and personalized service. Our heated indoor pool operates year-round, accommodating swim lessons for ages six months to adults and scuba certifications from beginner to professional levels.As an SSI Instructor Training Center, we maintain rigorous standards for both aquatic education and equipment servicing. With small class sizes, experienced instructors, and a focus on creating positive water experiences, we've built a reputation as one of the region's most trusted and innovative aquatic training facilities.
Services
Scuba Certification
Swim Lessons
Equipment Servicing
Dive Trips
Instructor Training
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1978 with 48 years of local experience
- 90-degree heated indoor pool operating year-round
- Small class sizes with certified instructors
- Offers SSI professional dive training pathway
- In-house equipment service center for regulators and BCDs
Associations and certifications
- SSI (Scuba Schools International)
Services
Scuba Certification
We offer comprehensive SSI scuba certification programs from beginner to professional levels. Our courses include Try Scuba sessions, Open Water Diver certifications, and advanced technical diving instruction. Small class sizes and experienced instructors ensure personalized attention while learning essential diving skills in our heated pool and open water environments.
Swim Lessons
Our year-round swim program teaches all ages from infants to adults using a structured 4:1 student-instructor ratio. Certified instructors focus on water safety, proper technique, and building confidence through progressive skill development. Private and group options available for customized learning experiences in our climate-controlled facility.
Equipment Servicing
Our in-house service center provides professional maintenance for scuba regulators, BCDs, and cylinders. Certified technicians perform annual inspections and repairs to ensure equipment reliability and safety. We service all major brand-name dive gear with quick turnaround times for both recreational and professional divers.
Dive Trips
We organize local and international dive excursions to premier destinations like Cozumel and the Red Sea. Experienced dive leaders guide groups to world-class sites featuring marine life encounters with eagle rays and thresher sharks. Trips include logistical support and equipment transport for hassle-free underwater adventures.
Instructor Training
Our SSI-certified pathway develops dive professionals from Assistant Instructor to Master Diver levels. The program includes mentorship from in-house Instructor Trainers, practical teaching experience, and advanced dive theory instruction. Graduates receive industry-recognized credentials for global dive career opportunities.
People
Big Mike Hillier
Founder
Established Lynnhaven Dive Center in 1978, pioneering Virginia Beach's first dedicated scuba training facility. His vision created a family-friendly aquatic education environment that continues through the next generation of leadership.
Lindsey Hillier
Co-Owner
Daughter of founder Big Mike Hillier, Lindsey continues the family legacy with 20+ years of diving experience. She oversees daily operations while maintaining connections to the local diving community and SSI training standards.
Scott Hotchkiss
Co-Owner
Brings extensive dive industry expertise as co-owner, focusing on technical training programs and equipment service operations. His leadership ensures continued innovation while maintaining the center's original commitment to quality instruction.
Questions
What scuba certification levels do you offer?
We provide SSI certifications from Try Scuba through professional instructor training, including Open Water Diver, Advanced Diver, and technical diving specializations.
Are swim lessons available for adults?
Yes, we offer private swim lessons for adults with customized instruction focusing on water safety, stroke improvement, and confidence building in our heated pool environment.
Do you service all scuba gear brands?
Our service center maintains and repairs all major brand-name regulators, BCDs, and cylinders with certified technicians performing annual inspections and necessary repairs.
What are your swim lesson pricing options?
Group lessons cost $120/month, semi-private $150/month, and private lessons $180/month. Specialized stroke clinics range from $140 for one-day sessions to $240 for two-day programs.
Are dive trips included in certification training?
Open water training dives are included in certification courses. Recreational dive trips to locations like Cozumel and the Red Sea are offered as separate adventure opportunities.
What are your facility operating hours?
Store hours are Monday-Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 9am-6pm, and Sunday 10am-4pm. Pool access for lessons follows the same schedule.
Videos
