Underwater three-dimensional optical imaging can be used to image complex water bodies. Unlike traditional imaging, underwater three-dimensional optical imaging needs to overcome the scattering and absorption effects of water media to reconstruct targets. It has important application value in fields such as ocean engineering, resource exploration, and national defense construction. This article summarizes the research progress of underwater three-dimensional optical imaging technology at home and abroad, and introduces five underwater three-dimensional optical imaging modes in sequence, including underwater distance gating technology, underwater single photon detection technology, underwater structured light three-dimensional point cloud imaging technology, underwater stripe tube laser imaging technology, and underwater multi camera imaging technology. Based on the characteristics and limitations of detection distance, imaging characteristics, and reconstruction environment of various imaging technologies, we analyze and discuss the development trend of underwater three-dimensional optical imaging.