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Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi

Discover the the ultimate destination for muck diving and macro photography

Uncover a diver's paradise with unique marine life and stunning underwater photography opportunities.

What you need to know about Lembeh Strait

Lembeh Strait, located off the northeast coast of Sulawesi, Indonesia, is famed for its unique muck diving opportunities. This narrow stretch of water between the island of Lembeh and the mainland offers some of the most unusual and diverse marine life found anywhere in the world. Known as the "Critter Capital of the World," Lembeh Strait is a dream destination for macro photographers and divers seeking encounters with rare and exotic species.

The underwater landscape of Lembeh Strait is distinct, characterized by black sand slopes and rubble, providing the perfect habitat for a wide variety of fascinating creatures. From flamboyant cuttlefish and mimic octopuses to pygmy seahorses and frogfish, the biodiversity here is truly astounding. Dive sites in Lembeh Strait are relatively shallow, with most ranging from 5 to 30 meters (16 to 98 feet), making it accessible for divers of all levels. The calm waters and exceptional visibility ensure that every dive is a chance to discover something new and extraordinary.

For non-divers, Lembeh Island offers stunning landscapes, traditional villages, and beautiful beaches to explore. You can take a guided tour to learn about local culture, hike through lush tropical forests, or relax on pristine beaches. Snorkeling, kayaking, and bird watching are also popular activities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Lembeh Strait.

Interesting facts about Lembeh Strait

Getting there: The easiest way to reach Lembeh Strait is to fly into Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado, North Sulawesi. From there, it's a short drive and boat transfer to your chosen dive resort or liveaboard.

Best time to visit Lembeh Strait: The best time for diving in Lembeh Strait is from March to October, with water temperatures ranging from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F) and excellent visibility.

Diving Conditions: Diving in Lembeh Strait features calm waters with little to no current, making it ideal for macro photography. Water depths range from 5 to 30 meters (16 to 98 feet).

Our liveaboard trips: Our liveaboard trips to Lembeh Strait typically last 7-10 days, offering multiple daily dives and the chance to explore other dive sites in North Sulawesi, including Bunaken and Bangka Island.

A little known fact: Lembeh Strait is home to the "Hairy Frogfish," a rare and bizarre-looking creature that is a favorite among underwater photographers. This elusive critter is just one of many unique species that make Lembeh a must-visit destination for divers.

Pictures of Lembeh Strait

Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi
Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi
Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi

Our trips to Lembeh Strait


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