In the Media
Scuba by Design offers unique, customized opportunities for visitors to experience the magic of Catalina Island’s majestic kelp forests as well as providing holistic training methods that ensure that almost anyone can learn to dive.
From our VIP Concierge Diving amenities to the quality of our Gear, training in dozens of recreational and specialty Certifications to our commitment to Sustainability and ocean conservation – our perspective and approach are different than you’ll find anywhere else.
We’re one of only a few companies in Southern California to offer Adaptive Training (through PADI and the Handicapped Scuba Association) and Adaptive Scuba Experiences for those with physical challenges, cognitive or developmental concerns, or who need support for stress and anxiety.
Learn more about Why We’re Different or contact Lisa directly regarding media opportunities.
What’s New
Kind Traveler | Every Adventure Gives Back
Scuba by Design has partnered with Kind Traveler’s Every Adventure Gives Back program to create a lasting impact in our community.
With a focus on advancing sustainable and regenerative tourism principles, this program creates a formalized, third-party validated giving platform for businesses to mobilize funds to local destination-driven nonprofits. Kind Traveler facilitates an easy pathway for travelers to make conscientious, responsible, and sustainable travel decisions that support the local community.
For every experience and certification class booked with us, we donate $1 to Bleu World and the organization receives 100% of those funds.
Journeyable | Accessible Travel
Scuba by Design has partnered with Journeyable, a travel platform whose mission is to improve access and empower every person with determination to live limitlessly.
They believe travel is a transformative experience that should be available to all, with a goal of breaking down barriers and building a global community where inclusivity and adventure go hand in hand. The community connects travelers with diverse needs and abilities, offering resources, stories, and support to foster inclusive travel experiences.
The Journeyable Travel Foundation is a nonprofit that is committed to supporting inclusive travel by conducting research, gathering user feedback, and collaborating with accessibility experts.
Handicapped Scuba Association Certification
Scuba by Design has enhanced our Adaptive Training program to include HSA certification.
Lisa recently earned her HSA Instructor rating, allowing us to provide an opportunity for divers who are unable to be certified in a traditional program, with multiple levels of certification based on the independence level of the diver. Buddy training for friends and family of HSA divers is offered as well, ensuring that nearly everyone can experience the magic of the underwater world.
Made up of over 4000 underwater educators, scuba divers with disabilities and supporting members, located in over 45 countries, the Handicapped Scuba Association is dedicated to assuring that people with disabilities are given the same opportunity to receive quality training, certification and dive adventures as the able bodied population.
Recent Media Features
GoPro x PADI Catalina Cleanup
Scuba by Design and our partner Bleu World were featured in the official GoPro x PADI YouTube video of the 2024 Avalon Harbor Underwater Cleanup.
Together, we managed a team of nearly 40 volunteers and were responsible for the intake, weighing, sorting, counting and disposal of 2,179 pieces of debris from the seafloor that weighed in at 1,376.27 pounds. We also returned returned dozens of sea creatures back to their habitats safely.
In the video you’ll hear Lisa talk about the process that we put in place that follows the AWARE guidelines and helped make the Cleanup a great success.
Scuba Diving on Catalina Island
Scuba by Design was featured in the latest Pura Vida with Ari YouTube video about what’s it’s like to visit Catalina Island for a day of diving with us at the Casino Point Dive Park.
In it you’ll see our Concierge Diving setup and a great view of our magnificent kelp forests, plus a first person look at our Giant Black Sea Bass! Lisa also talks about some of the creatures found in the Park and some of their fun characteristics. (You’ll find us at 3:32 in the video.)
Calling Catalina! Embrace Second Summer
Scuba by Design was featured in an article about things to do on Catalina Island which was published by the Southern California News Group across 11 local daily publications, associated websites and social channels.
“At Scuba by Design, they’ve coined the term “scuba tailgating.” It’s all about convenience and comfort, from providing shade, mats, and chairs to top-notch gear and delicious catered lunches… Lisa beautifully summed up the essence of the scuba experience: When you first learn, it’s like being fire-hosed with information, but you come out with a sense of wonder. It’s transformative, it quiets the mind, and is well known to be good for mental health. It’s a feeling of freedom.”
Discover Natural Wonders on Catalina Island
Scuba by Design was featured in the latest Thrillist Explorers YouTube video about all the opportunities for adventure on Catalina Island whether in the air, under water or on the earth. The video was shared in multiple formats across social media platforms as well.
In it Lisa talks about the magic of Catalina’s underwater world, our holistic teaching methods and the adaptive programs we offer. (You’ll find us at 2:18 in the video.)
Strike Back at Gravity with Adaptive Scuba Diving
Our Adaptive Diving program was featured in a recent Thrillist Los Angeles article.
“If you’re looking for an adaptive scuba diving trip in Southern California, your best bet is to head 26 miles across the sea to Catalina Island…As of this May, Catalina is also one of the best places in Southern California for adaptive diving, thanks to Scuba by Design and Lisa Beach. Beach is a PADI master scuba diver trainer, an emergency first responder instructor, and a certified adaptive techniques instructor who likes to call herself the “scuba instructor for the rest of us.” “
