The user of Dive will hide underwater on the first turn, disappearing from view and becoming invulnerable to most attacks. On the second turn, Dive deals damage.

While underwater, the Pokémon can only be hit by the moves Surf, Whirlpool or Low Kick, with Surf and Whirlpool dealing twice normal damage. Moves from No Guard Pokémon, or any move following an identify move can also hit for regular power. The user also avoids end-of-turn damage from Sandstorm and Hail when underwater.

If the user is holding a Power Herb, Dive executes in one turn.

When a Pokémon is holding Waterium Z and uses its Z-Power, Dive turns into Hydro Vortex and has base power 160.

While surfing, if you happen over a dark patch of water, you can dive below the surface and explore underwater. It can only be used with the appropriate Gym Badge.

Two regions have areas where you can use Dive: Hoenn (Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, and the remakes Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire) and Unova (Black, White, Black 2, White 2) and the move is an HM in those games.