Scuba Diving at Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa)

Diving atLingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa) (Philippines)

Lingsat Marine Protected Area (LMPA) features a vibrant reef system, beginning in shallow waters at approximately 5 m (16 ft) with healthy, colorful corals. A gently sloping reef extends considerably, reaching depths of up to 35 meters (114 feet). This site is primarily an ocean reef environment, accessible exclusively by boat, making it a suitable destination for a range of certified divers seeking varied depths.

Evening condition tracking at Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa) features an air temperature of 25.5°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.4 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.

Dive Site Location & Key Facts

Everything you need to know about this dive site.

Coordinates16.6413, 120.3070
Site Characteristics
Ocean
Max Depth35m / 115ft
Entry Typeboat
Water Typesalt
Dive Types
Reef

Dive Site Overview

Lingsat Marine Protected Area serves as a crucial component of the Philippines' extensive network of community-managed MPAs. Its designation reflects a commitment to protecting marine biodiversity from human impact, offering a safe haven for countless species.

This particular dive site welcomes both novice and experienced divers, presenting a long, gently sloping reef where vibrant coral gardens in shallower areas gradually transition into more expansive, deeper sections. Beginning around 5 meters, the reef system extends towards its full recreational depth capacity. The ecosystem here supports a diverse array of marine life throughout its different zones, from the sunlit top reef to the dimmer, deeper slopes.

Access to the site is strictly by boat, reinforcing controlled entry consistent with marine protection goals. Dive operators from San Fernando (La Union) regularly organize trips, providing guided experiences within this significant conservation zone.

Divers can explore extensive healthy coral formations, observing how the reef environment changes with increasing depth and structure.

Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa)

Conditions are Good

7/10
Confidence: 8/10
Indicates meteorological model agreement and data availability.

Best Dive Window

Optimal conditions expected

06:12
18:45
H: 10:45
L: 16:20
Air / Sea Temp
26° / 31°
Wave Height
0.5 m
Wind Speed
26 km/h S
Rain Chance
100%

Current conditions near Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa) show 26° air, 31° sea temperature, 0.5 m waves, and 26 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.

Radius: ~12km
Updated: Jun 13, 2026, 06:59 local time
MARINE: OPEN-METEOWEATHER: YR.NO

Best Time to Dive

Divers planning a trip to Lingsat Marine Protected Area will generally find optimal conditions between February and October, aligning with consistently good dive scores during these months. Air temperatures during this period typically range from 26.5°C (80°F) in February to 29°C (84°F) in May, making surface intervals comfortable. Wave heights are often lower, particularly from April to June, averaging between 0.6 to 0.7 meters (2.0 to 2.3 feet), which contributes to calmer sea conditions. While water temperature data isn't consistently reported, the warm air temperatures suggest pleasant diving. Rain activity sees a notable increase from July to September, with July experiencing averages around 23.97 mm, potentially impacting visibility; however, many months outside this period exhibit minimal rainfall.

PEAK SEASON SCORE

84/100
Very Good

Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.


BEST MONTHS TO DIVE

MAR
APR
MAY
DIVE SCORE
(0–100)
65
JAN
79
FEB
80
MAR
87
APR
86
MAY
75
JUN
60
JUL
75
AUG
71
SEP
74
OCT
63
NOV
65
DEC
AIR TEMP (°C)
26
27
28
29
29
28
27
27
27
27
27
27
WAVES (M)
1.5
1.1
1.0
0.7
0.6
0.6
1.0
0.8
0.9
1.2
1.7
1.5
WIND (KM/H)
15
17
18
19
16
15
18
15
16
14
16
13
RAIN (MM)
0.6
0.4
0.8
0.7
5.4
10.9
24.0
10.3
18.1
6.6
4.8
1.0
DIVE SCORE GUIDE (0–100)
Excellent (90–100)
Very Good (80–89)
Good (70–79)
Moderate (50–69)
Poor (30–49)
Not Recommended (0–29)

Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.

Dive Experience & Conditions

A dive at Lingsat Marine Protected Area involves navigating a dynamic underwater landscape, predominantly shaped by its extensive reef system. Water conditions remain consistently saline, typical of an open ocean environment. Divers typically follow a gradual descent along the reef's slope, commencing in bright, coral-rich shallows. This path leads towards the site's maximum recreational depth. Healthy coral formations are a consistent feature throughout any dive, providing habitat for a wide variety of reef fish. While specific current details aren't always predictable, applying standard tropical diving practices is advisable. A gentle slope allows for extended bottom times across various depths, accommodating different certification levels and interests. Divers observe diverse reef topography and marine life interactions from top to bottom.

Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines

Approaching Lingsat Marine Protected Area requires adherence to established marine park guidelines to ensure the preservation of its ecosystem. The site is accessible by boat, and divers should always follow the instructions of their dive operators, especially regarding entry and exit procedures. With a maximum depth of 35 meters (114 feet), it's recommended that divers hold at least a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent to safely explore its deeper sections. There are no consistently reported site-specific hazards beyond general marine environment considerations such as boat traffic and potential currents which vary by conditions. Maintaining good buoyancy control is crucial to avoid contact with the healthy coral structures.

Recommended Equipment

Deep dive hazard. Increased narcosis and gas consumption risk.

  • Dive Computer
  • DSMB
  • Primary & Backup Lights

This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa), Philippines. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.

Recommended Dive Suit

With water temperatures around 31°C (87°F), many divers find a dive skin or rash guard provides comfortable protection.

Local dive briefings can provide the most accurate guidance.

The forecast outlook suggests that temperatures will stay close to current levels.

Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa) conditions last reviewed: 06:59 local time (UTC+8), Jun 13, 2026

Due to technical issues with our weather providers, live updates are temporarily delayed. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.

Emergency & Medical Support

Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Lingsat Marine Protected Area (LMPA).

Hyperbaric Chamber

Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.

Before diving, it's recommended to:

  • confirm nearest medical facilities
  • check emergency procedures with local dive operators
  • ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
24/7 Available

Divers Alert Network

Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.

+1-919-684-9111
  • 24/7 emergency hotline
  • Diving medical assistance
  • Evacuation coordination
View official DAN emergency contacts

Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.

Marine Life at Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa)

The immediate impression upon descending into Lingsat is often of bustling reef fish animating the healthy, colorful corals. Among the corals, divers frequently spot interesting nudibranchs and various shrimps and crabs navigating the reef. As one progresses into the deeper parts of the site, encounters with larger marine life become more probable. Look out for schools of snappers, substantial grouper, and graceful sweet-lips. Sightings of sea turtles are also common in these areas, adding to the rich biodiversity observed.

Image contributors:Hans Hillewaert, Claudio Giovenzana
Want to contribute photos or local dive knowledge? Learn how to contribute

Dive Centers Near Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa)

No Dive Centers Local To Lingsat Marine Protected Area (Lmpa)

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Nearest Airports

Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.

Loakan AirportBAG
45 km
Cauayan AirportCYZ
157 km
Laoag International AirportLAO
171 km
💵Currency:PHP

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth at Lingsat Marine Protected Area?

The maximum depth recorded for diving at LMPA is 35 meters (114 feet), accommodating both recreational and advanced divers.

What type of dive site is Lingsat Marine Protected Area?

Lingsat Marine Protected Area is primarily an ocean reef dive site, characterized by healthy, colorful corals and a gently sloping reef structure.

Is Lingsat Marine Protected Area suitable for beginner divers?

Yes, Lingsat Marine Protected Area is considered suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, especially its shallower coral garden sections.

What marine life can I expect to see at LMPA?

Divers can expect to see an abundance of reef fish, nudibranchs, crabs, and shrimps in shallower waters. Deeper sections host turtles, schools of snappers, grouper, and sweet-lips.

How do I access the Lingsat Marine Protected Area?

Entry to the dive site is exclusively by boat. Dive operators from nearby areas like San Fernando (La Union) provide access to LMPA.

What are the best months for diving at Lingsat?

The optimal period for diving is generally from February to October, offering good dive conditions with comfortable air temperatures and typically lower wave heights.

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