Landing Craft LCM3 - California

There’s something about the Landing Craft LCM3 that just feels right for a California wreck dive. It’s not some grand ocean liner, but a gritty piece of history, just like the wrecks we explored as kids off the coast. This particular LCM3, a 50-foot American landing craft, rests in about 20 metres. We love how the hull is still largely intact, a real testament to its sturdy construction. Drop down and you’ll find the open cargo hold is now home to a busy community of rockfish, sculpins, and even a grumpy cabezon or two peeking out from the darker corners. The light filters down, creating these cool shafts through the water, especially on a sunny morning. We’d suggest going early, before the boat traffic picks up. The prop shaft and rudder are still there, great for a quick poke around, and the bow ramp is partially open, giving you a sense of its original purpose. It’s an accessible wreck, perfect for divers who appreciate a bit of history and don't need a huge cargo hold to feel like an explorer.

Location
California, United States, North America
Coordinates
33.809370, -118.405520
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10-25m

Marine Protected Area: Palos Verdes Shoreline

Best Time to Dive in California

The warmest water temperatures in California occur in August, averaging 20.6°C (up to 24.0°C). The coolest conditions are in February at 14.0°C.

The calmest sea conditions are typically in July with average wave heights of 0.60m.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 14.4°C (air: 14.0°C)
  • February: 14.0°C (air: 13.8°C)
  • March: 14.2°C (air: 13.3°C)
  • April: 14.9°C (air: 14.3°C)
  • May: 16.6°C (air: 15.4°C)
  • June: 18.9°C (air: 17.4°C)
  • July: 20.4°C (air: 18.9°C)
  • August: 20.6°C (air: 19.6°C)
  • September: 20.4°C (air: 19.7°C)
  • October: 18.8°C (air: 18.4°C)
  • November: 16.3°C (air: 16.0°C)
  • December: 15.6°C (air: 14.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in California

Nearest Dive Centres to Landing Craft LCM3

Marine Life in California

Home to 10 recorded species including 8 reef fish, 1 other, 1 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Landing Craft LCM3

Based on average water temperature of 17.1°C.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 17°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories