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San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse

Fl R 5s🇵🇭Northern Philippines, PHOperational

Location & Light Range

About San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse

The San Nicholas Shoal light station was established in 1997, though its history as a light station dates back to 1880. The current structure is a white, square concrete platform supported by piles, topped with a white framework tower. It stands 11 meters above sea level. The light emits a single green flash every 5 seconds and has a geographic range of 4 nautical miles. This light station was replaced by a buoy in 2022.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl R 5s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Red
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
5s
Raw Code
Fl.G. period 5s
Focal Height
11m
Geographic Range
4NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1997

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
F2643
NGA No.
14284
ARLHS No.
PHI-055

Tower & Structure

Tower Shape
square
Tower Color
white
Material
concrete

Structure: White framework tower

Location

City
Northern Philippines
Country
🇵🇭PH
Latitude
14.4500°
Longitude
120.7500°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse at night?+
San Nicholas Shoal displays the characteristic Fl R 5s — 1 red flash every 5 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The red color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Lucanin at 7.8 NM to the W. Other ports served include Limay/Bataan (9 NM WNW), Corregidor Island (10.5 NM WSW), Manila South Harbour (14.5 NM ENE), Mariveles, Luzon (14.5 NM W). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near San Nicholas Shoal Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.