Whether you're a seasoned diver or have never strapped on a tank, two upcoming Scuba Shows promise something for everyone in the family. The events are making stops in Long Beach, California and Atlantic City, New Jersey, with activities designed to bring the underwater world to life — no ocean required.
The Long Beach Scuba Show takes place May 30-31, 2026 at the Long Beach Convention Center, while the Atlantic City Scuba Show follows June 6-7, 2026 at the Atlantic City Convention Center. Both events offer a remarkable value proposition: kids under 16 get in free, and every ticket includes access to the Try Dive Pool, ROV challenge, shark cage photo opportunity, and a virtual reality dive to a historic warship.
Get Wet Without Getting Certified
The centerpiece of both shows is a heated 15,000-gallon tank right on the exhibit hall floor. Certified professionals will supervise Discover Scuba sessions throughout both days, and all gear is provided — you just need to bring a swimsuit and towel. The sessions are open to anyone aged 10 and over, making this an accessible introduction to the sport for curious newcomers.
Already certified but never tried sidemount or a CCR? The shows have sessions for those specialty experiences as well, giving experienced divers a chance to expand their skillset in a controlled environment.
Strike a Pose in the Shark Cage
One of the most popular attractions requires absolutely no diving knowledge whatsoever. The shark cage photo opportunity lets visitors step inside a cage and strike a pose for a memorable souvenir. No certification, no wetsuit, no experience necessary — just five minutes of entertainment that's particularly satisfying for anyone who's been dragged along thinking this was "just a dive expo."
Virtual Voyage to a 460-Year-Old Shipwreck
Attendees will have the chance to virtually explore the Mars shipwreck, a Swedish navy flagship that sank in 1564 and wasn't rediscovered until 2011. For divers, it's an opportunity to visit a famous wreck most will never see in person. For non-divers, it's a genuine window into what lies beneath the waves — no certification, pool time, or plane ticket to Sweden required.
Pilot Real Underwater Robots in Atlantic City
The Atlantic City show will feature an exclusive attraction where visitors can pilot an actual ROV (remotely operated vehicle) and compete on a leaderboard challenge. This hands-on experience with the technology behind real marine operations is courtesy of Scuba.Tech, a nonprofit organization using diving, underwater robotics, and 3D mapping technology to advance marine science, historical preservation, and ocean accessibility.
Beyond the ROV piloting, attendees can try an ROV simulator for virtual shipwreck exploration and get hands-on time with underwater survey equipment — including photogrammetry rigs — that's actually used in real research projects. Expert team members will be available throughout the show for informal talks, photogrammetry demonstrations, and to answer questions about careers in marine science, offshore industries, and underwater robotics. This makes the experience particularly valuable for students and anyone considering a career change into ocean-related fields.
Professional Training Opportunities
For those looking to build professional skills, both shows will offer the PSI-PCI Visual Cylinder Inspection course. This industry-endorsed training covers the inspection and maintenance of high-pressure gas cylinders, with additional instruction in valve repair and O2 cleaning procedures. Spaces are expected to fill quickly, so interested participants should pre-book through the What's On pages on the show websites.
Tickets and Access
Ticket prices are consistent across both locations: $33 for single-day entry with unlimited re-entry, $60 for a weekend pass with full access on both days, and $100 for a VIP weekend pass that includes magazines and a show t-shirt. Remember, attendees under 16 get in free, making this an affordable family outing.
Whether you're looking to take your first breath underwater, explore cutting-edge marine technology, or simply capture a fun photo in a shark cage, these shows offer our community a unique chance to connect with the ocean world — all without leaving dry land.
