Any scuba divers here? Need some advise, want to get into the sport. [View all]

[Locut0s]

Ever since snorkeling in Hawaii on the Big Island some years ago, and later in Belize, I've LOVED snorkeling. Sadly there isn't much to see here in Vancouver in terms of snorkeling. Diving is a different story though, there are a number of popular dive sites near Vancouver and along the BC coast with lots and lots of sea life to see, usually between 40-100ft from what I can tell. I've been thinking of taking up diving for some years now and the recent Kauai trip has only solidified my urge to do so. The question is where and how to get started. There are a couple of local dive shops near me that offer comprehensive dive certifications, beyond PADI certification for between $500 and $600. This seems awfully steep to me but then again safety lessons and proper practices aren't the kind of thing that I would want to skimp on either. Next thing after that is what should I be looking into in the way of gear? I already have OK flippers, mask and snorkel but of course no tank, wet suit, dive computer or the rest of the gear. How much of this should one purchase as a beginner and how much should one rent? Also any pointers to other online resources for beginners would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.