Guam
Cultural Attractions
Guam, an island rich in culture and the “Hafa Adai” spirit, is not only a place with great, tropical weather and pristine beaches—it is an island of beauty, history and cultural tradition. Explore the beauty of Guam from the top of Two Lover’s Point in the village of Upper Tumon, Fort Apugan in Agana Heights or the Cetti Bay overlook in southern Guam. Take a hike in the southern area of the island and visit one of thirty-two waterfalls on Guam.
Adventure Guam
What better way to discover Guam while taking in water and land sports? The island’s ocean is an open playground for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy swimming, windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, jet skiing, kite boarding, parasailing, and diving. The best snorkeling spots for both beginners and experienced snorkelers are on the protected reefs of the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve, the Piti Bomb Holes and in the southern village of Merizo.
Additional Attractions
Pamper yourself, island-style at one of Guam’s spas or take a shopping trip browsing through high-end shops at the DFS Galleria, Tumon Sands Plaza and the Plaza at Outrigger. Take the family to the world’s largest Kmart, the Guam Premier Outlets, Micronesia Mall, Acanta Mall, or Agana Shopping Center to purchase clothing, shoes, accessories, island souvenirs, food, beverages, and toiletries.
Saipan
Saipan, Tinian, and Rota each present a wealth of historic, cultural and geographic sites that highlight the unique richness of the Northern Marianas. The best part is, you can easily visit a number of significant sites in a single day due to the intimacy of these small islands.
Managaha Island
As its nickname, “The Pearl of Saipan,” suggests a trip to Saipan would not compete without paying a visit to the famous Managaha Island. A small island off the western coast of Saipan, the Managaha Island offers snow-white sand beaches and turquoise-blue waters filled with a colorful array of gorgeous marine life. The island is easily accessible by ferries and speedboat (10-15 minutes from Saipan).
Grotto
The Grotto is considered as one of the best cavern dive sites in the word (voted the world’s No. 2 cavern diving spot by Skin Diver Magazine). A steep decline of 103-steps leads to a natural limestone cave with a pool. Underneath the pool is the underwater cavern with three separate cave outlets to the Pacific Ocean. The 5 a.m. morning dive usually features turtles, sharks, and manta rays.
Bird Island (Isleta Maigo Fahang)
The “Isleta Maigo Fahang,” commonly known as the Bird Island – is a small rock islet standing on the coral reef off the northeastern coast of Saipan. The lookout offers remarkable scenery and is also an excellent spot for bird watching. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars with you.
Last Command Post
The Last Command Post, located just below the high cliffs in the Marpi, was one of the final h5holds of the Japanese army during WWWII. The surrounding cliffs and the walls of the command post bear the scars of countless bullets and bomb blasts. Today, it’s a tourist site featuring several relics from the war. Japanese and Korean memorials are also located nearby.
American Memorial Park
Located in the Garapan area near Micro Beach, the memorial park is a popular spot for strolling or jogging. The park honors the American soldiers and the indigenous people who gave their lives during the Marianas Campaign of World War II. Within the 133-acre boundary are beaches, sports fields, picnic sites, boat marina and mangrove forecast.
More info http://nps.gov/amme/
Marine Activities
Diving
Explore the wonders of the underwater world. The Northern Mariana Islands’ pristine coral reefs boast colorful and abundant marine life. The sunken relics from WWII also offer a unique dive experience. A wide variety of great dive sites can accommodate both beginners and experts.
Wind Surfing
The gentle trade winds that blow on the ocean surface create ideal conditions for windsurfers. Windsurfing can be enjoyed all yea around in the Northern Mariana Islands. Best Season: November-April.
Para Sailing
Enjoy the panoramic view from the ocean with a parachute; hooked on a boat, it takes you on a ride approximately 30 meters high. It is an enjoyable experience that overlooks Saipan’s Lagoon.
Aqua-Naut/Sea Walker
Experience the underwater world by sea walking. See the various tropical fish that enhance your visit in a 3 meter deep dive. Visitors enjoy the popular adventure that is normally experienced by certified divers. Aqua-Naut/ Sea Walker is a safe and fun activity to enjoy.
Banana Boat
These boats are fast, becoming an integral part of the islands ocean sports. The Banana Boat does not have a motor but is towed by a motorboat at speeds of 50-60 km per hour. Family and friends will enjoy this floating device that seats 5-6 people.
Submarine Tour
Experience an underwater adventure aboard a real submarine! Take this fascinating ride down 30 meters in the lagoon of Saipan for an up-close look at the world below the surface. This is a great tour for the family to enjoy. Magnificent coral formations and various tropical fish make this tour an event to remember.
On-Land Activities
Dinner Show
A variety of cultural dinner shows are available at certain hotels and outdoor venues. The nightly shows feature a colorful mixture of dances from many islands, while others feature the traditional Chamorro/Carolinian dances with a truly local flavor. Dinner is included and the audience can take part in some of the performances.
Sunset Cruise
The sunset cruise offers fine dining, live music, and performances aboard a yacht. The quests can relax and watch Saipan’s picturesque sunset while they cruise through a turquoise lagoon. Perfect for a romantic outing with your special someone. Dinner is included.
Off-Road Adventures
Take an exciting ATV ride on a rough but, scenic-terrain, or adventure into the jungle on a 4WD truck. The tours allow you to experience remote beaches and jungle areas where the natural beauty of the islands is best preserved.
Spa Treatment
Visitors looking to pamper themselves will find a selection of spas waiting to indulge their every desire. Inspired by the natural beauty of the islands, the spas in the Mariana Islands offer a vacation with in a vacation. Let the aroma of the island spice blends take you to a heavenly world of relaxation.
Golf
The Northern Marianas Islands have six golf courses with spectacular views. Each course offers a unique set of challenges, environments, and experiences. The islands year-round warn tropical weather ensures that golf can be enjoyed at all times. Try playing a relaxing round of golf in lush, tropical settings.
Magic Show
Enjoy an exciting and magical evening of entertainment. Audiences of all ages will be overwhelmed when the art of magic comes to life, through the amazing work of a master illusionist
Saipan Attractions
Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff
Towards the end of the Battle of for Saipan during WWII, defeated Japanese soldiers and civilians fled north to Marpi. Today, these cliffs are tourist attractions that offer glorious views despite their sad history. Numerous monuments dedicated to world peace and in remembrance of the dead can be seen at these cliffs.
Micro Beach
Micro Beach is famous for its colors and white sand beaches. The 0ceans colors change several times a day depending on the angle of the sun. The color is said to be most beautify at sunset. It is the popular spot for windsurfing and kite-surfing. The micro beach is also a historically significant site to Saipan’s Carolinian (Refaluwasch) community. This beach is where the Carolinian migrants set foot upon their arrival on Saipan in the 19th century.
Mt. Tapochao
Although only 1,500 feet above sea-level, Mt. Tapachao is the pinnacle of a mountain ridge rising from the deepest point on the face of the earth, the Marianas Trench. It offers an amazing 360-degree view of the entire island of Saipan, as well as Managaha Island and Tinian. Accessible by 4WD, the mountaintop can also be reached more adventurously by rough rails ideal for mountain biking and off-road ATV tours.
Garapan Street Market
The Garapan Street Market at the Garapan Fishing Base on Beach Rd. offers a cacophony of international dishes at a very reasonable price and free live entertainment. Novelties, arts, and crafts also on sale. A meeting place for both locals and visitors, the street market is "the place to be" on a Thursday night from 5-9:30 p.m. Admission is free.
For more information, contact the CNMI Dept. of Community and Cultural Affairs at 670-664-2576.
Tinian
Saipan, Tinian, and Rota each present a wealth of historic, cultural and geographic sites that highlight the unique richness of the Northern Marianas. The best part is, you can easily visit a number of significant sites in a single day due to the intimacy of these small islands.
Marine Activities
Diving
Explore the wonders of the underwater world. The Northern Mariana Islands’ pristine coral reefs boast colorful and abundant marine life. The sunken relics from WWII also offer a unique dive experience. A wide variety of great dive sites can accommodate both beginners and experts.
Wind Surfing
The gentle trade winds that blow on the ocean surface create ideal conditions for windsurfers. Windsurfing can be enjoyed all year around in the Northern Mariana Islands. Best Season: November-April.
Para Sailing
Enjoy the panoramic view from the ocean with a parachute; hooked on a boat, it takes you on a ride approximately 30 meters high. It is an enjoyable experience that overlooks Saipan’s Lagoon.
Aqua-Naut/Sea Walker
Experience the underwater world by sea walking. See the various tropical fish that enhance your visit in a 3 meter deep dive. Visitors enjoy the popular adventure that is normally experienced by certified divers. Aqua-Naut/ Sea Walker is a safe and fun activity to enjoy.
Banana Boat
These boats are fast, becoming an integral part of the islands ocean sports. The Banana Boat does not have a motor but is towed by a motorboat at speeds of 50-60 km per hour. Family and friends will enjoy this floating device that seats 5-6 people.
Submarine Tour
Experience an underwater adventure aboard a real submarine! Take this fascinating ride down 30 meters in the lagoon of Saipan for an up-close look at the world below the surface. This is a great tour for the family to enjoy. Magnificent coral formations and various tropical fish make this tour an event to remember.
On-Land Activities
Dinner Show
A variety of cultural dinner shows are available at certain hotels and outdoor venues. The nightly shows feature a colorful mixture of dances from many islands, while others feature the traditional Chamorro/Carolinian dances with a truly local flavor. Dinner is included and the audience can take part in some of the performances.
Sunset Cruise
The sunset cruise offers fine dining, live music, and performances aboard a yacht. The quests can relax and watch Saipan’s picturesque sunset while they cruise through a turquoise lagoon. Perfect for a romantic outing with your special someone. Dinner is included.
Off-Road Adventures
Take an exciting ATV ride on a rough but, scenic-terrain, or adventure into the jungle on a 4WD truck. The tours allow you to experience remote beaches and jungle areas where the natural beauty of the islands is best preserved.
Spa Treatment
Visitors looking to pamper themselves will find a selection of spas waiting to indulge their every desire. Inspired by the natural beauty of the islands, the spas in the Mariana Islands offer a vacation within a vacation. Let the aroma of the island spice blends take you to a heavenly world of relaxation.
Golf
The Northern Marianas Islands have six golf courses with spectacular views. Each course offers a unique set of challenges, environments, and experiences. The islands year-round warm tropical weather ensures that golf can be enjoyed at all times. Try playing a relaxing round of golf in lush, tropical settings.
Magic Show
Enjoy an exciting and magical evening of entertainment. Audiences of all ages will be overwhelmed when the art of magic comes to life, through the amazing work of a master illusionist
Tinian Attractions
Chuu Beach (Famous for Star Sand)
Chulu Beach is located on Tinian’s northwestern shore. It was used as a landing site by US forces during the World War II Battle for Tinian. This secluded, pristine white-sand beach is perfect for swimming and picnicking. It is also known as the “Star Beach” to the locals because of the star-shaped sand particles can be found among the regular sand particles.
Atomic Bomb Pit
There are two months that indicate the site of the World War II atomic bomb loading and departure in North Field. Two atomic bombs –“Fat Man (Plutonium implosion)” and Little Boy (gun-style uranium)” – were loaded onto the B29 bombers here. Little Boy was dropped on Nagasaki on August 9, 1949. To this date, these were the only attacks with nuclear weapons in history.
Tinian Grotto
Like Saipan, Tinian too has a Grotto. The Tinian Grotto is the islands most popular cavern. Most Divers enter the cavern from the hold on top and exit through one of the other holes. The coral formation is bustling with colorful marine life such as shrimps and crabs.
Casino
At the moment, the Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Casino is the only full-scale casino in the Northern Mariana Islands. Feeling lucky? Tinian’s casino offers a wide variety of games such as baccarat, roulette, blackjack, slot machines, and much more. Various tournaments and champions games are held at the casino throughout the year drawing both local and international players to the island of Tinian.
Rota
Saipan, Tinian, and Rota each present a wealth of historic, cultural and geographic sites that highlight the unique richness of the Northern Marianas. The best part is, you can easily visit a number of significant sites in a single day due to the intimacy of these small islands.
Marine Activities
Diving
Explore the wonders of the underwater world. The Northern Mariana Islands’ pristine coral reefs boast colorful and abundant marine life. The sunken relics from WWII also offer a unique dive experience. A wide variety of great dive sites can accommodate both beginners and experts.
Wind Surfing
The gentle trade winds that blow on the ocean surface create ideal conditions for windsurfers. Windsurfing can be enjoyed all year around in the Northern Mariana Islands. Best Season: November-April.
Para Sailing
Enjoy the panoramic view from the ocean with a parachute; hooked on a boat, it takes you on a ride approximately 30 meters high. It is an enjoyable experience that overlooks Saipan’s Lagoon.
Aqua-Naut/Sea Walker
Experience the underwater world by sea walking. See the various tropical fish that enhance your visit in a 3 meter deep dive. Visitors enjoy the popular adventure that is normally experienced by certified divers. Aqua-Naut/ Sea Walker is a safe and fun activity to enjoy.
Banana Boat
These boats are fast, becoming an integral part of the islands ocean sports. The Banana Boat does not have a motor but is towed by a motorboat at speeds of 50-60 km per hour. Family and friends will enjoy this floating device that seats 5-6 people.
Submarine Tour
Experience an underwater adventure aboard a real submarine! Take this fascinating ride down 30 meters in the lagoon of Saipan for an up-close look at the world below the surface. This is a great tour for the family to enjoy. Magnificent coral formations and various tropical fish make this tour an event to remember.
On-Land Activities
Dinner Show
A variety of cultural dinner shows are available at certain hotels and outdoor venues. The nightly shows feature a colorful mixture of dances from many islands, while others feature the traditional Chamorro/Carolinian dances with a truly local flavor. Dinner is included and the audience can take part in some of the performances.
Sunset Cruise
The sunset cruise offers fine dining, live music, and performances aboard a yacht. The quests can relax and watch Saipan’s picturesque sunset while they cruise through a turquoise lagoon. Perfect for a romantic outing with your special someone. Dinner is included.
Off-Road Adventures
Take an exciting ATV ride on a rough but, scenic-terrain, or adventure into the jungle on a 4WD truck. The tours allow you to experience remote beaches and jungle areas where the natural beauty of the islands is best preserved.
Spa Treatment
Visitors looking to pamper themselves will find a selection of spas waiting to indulge their every desire. Inspired by the natural beauty of the islands, the spas in the Mariana Islands offer a vacation within a vacation. Let the aroma of the island spice blends take you to a heavenly world of relaxation.
Golf
The Northern Marianas Islands have six golf courses with spectacular views. Each course offers a unique set of challenges, environments, and experiences. The islands year-round warm tropical weather ensures that golf can be enjoyed at all times. Try playing a relaxing round of golf in lush, tropical settings.
Magic Show
Enjoy an exciting and magical evening of entertainment. Audiences of all ages will be overwhelmed when the art of magic comes to life, through the amazing work of a master illusionist
Rota Attractions
Wedding Cake Mountain
Wedding Cake Mountain is the nickname for Mt. Taipingot. Viewed from afar, this rocky mountain resembles a layered cake commonly made for the weddings. It is an ideal place to go hiking and trekking into the lush green forest. Locates south of the Son Song village, this mountain is one of Rota’s postcard sites to capture.
Cave Museum
The museum itself is housed in a cave that is said to be approximately 10 million years old and is worth the visit. The cave is about 250 feet in length. The path is lined with artifacts that span the ages from ancient Chamorro with a few items from the Spanish intrusion. There are also many Japanese and American artifacts that are mostly from World War II era.
Teteto, Beach & Guata Beach
Teteto Beach and the Guata Beach are the best snorkeling spots in Rota. Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear water and sunbathing on white sand beaches during the daytime, watch the beautiful sunrise from a beach bar in the evening, and go start-gazing at night.
Japanese Sugar Mill and Trains
The Sugar Mills and the Trains were built and used by the Nanyo Kohatsu (NKK)/ Southsea Development Company. The Sugar Mill was the only “Brick” structure built during the Japanese era. Mt. Haruji Matsue of the NKK believed the Marianas Islands had a huge potential for developing a successful sugar cultivation and refining industry and began investigating. Later, he earned the nickname, “Sugar King.”
Palau
Experience the Adventures of Palau
Famous as it is credited to its diving, and as diverse as the colors of its rich marine environment, the list of action-packed activities in Palau reveals a rainbow of color choices as well. Palau is not limited to just its glorious blue waters. The destination also offers a myriad of activities. While snorkeling is also one of Palau’s main water activities, other marine amusements include kayaking, fishing, jet-ski, sports fishing, dolphin encounters and snorkeling with millions of jellyfish at Jellyfish Lake. Recent additions to the list of activities include ZIP Lines, ATV tours, and Jungle River Boat Cruise.
There are numerous activities on land as well, such as tours to museums for more in-depth culture and historical discovery about Palau, trekking through ancient village grounds and ruins, cruise on a jungle riverboat to see crocodiles and endemic plants along the river or visits to the local wood carving shops for a memorable souvenir. A visit to Palau is not complete without tasting some of the local delicacies such as tapioca, mangrove crab, coconut candy even fruit bat soup.
For more information, please visit: www.visit-palau.com
Culture
Palau is a country rich in tradition and culture. Today, many sites of cultural or historical importance remain intact, reminding modern Palauans of a past long ago, while reinforcing the culture and tradition for future generations.
Despite external influences, no doubt reflect the multifaceted aspects of Palau’s culture, even as many of its innate traits remain. Strongly representing these inherent cultural inclinations in Palau is the traditional dance. Often accompanied by chants, dances are performed mainly at ceremonies commemorative or/and special days of events.
Diving
Diving is year-round in Palau. From beginners and intermediate to expert divers, there are over 50 existing dive sites, each possessing distinct characteristics and individual personalities to appeal to everyone’s desires. Palau has been named one of the Underwater Wonders of the World. An archipelago surrounded by a fringe reef, Palau's waters are packed with a great diversity of marine life. World War II relics randomly dot the underwater seascape with an almost perfect sense of dispersion; displaying haunting wrecks over 40 World War II Japanese seaplanes and shipwrecks that render the islands a dream for wreck diving aficionados.
Snorkeling
Inside the area sheltered by the Rock Islands' tiny isles are calm seas that afford ideal sites for snorkeling. Year-round warm water temperatures are indescribably soothing and therapeutic, making snorkeling tours compelling. Shallow reefs reveal tropical fish and Technicolor giant clams thriving amongst a prism of corals.
Sportsfishing
With water sports alone, the opportunities are limitless. For instance, Palau has an abundance of the most spectacular sports fishing opportunities. One can troll for game fish such as mammoth 400-pounds blue marlin, sailfish, giant trevally, wahoo, and tuna. As a matter of fact, sport-fishing is so popular in the islands that the Palau Sports Fishing Association holds an annual fishing derby in the month of May that is open to anyone. Generous cash prizes are awarded for the biggest catches in several categories including tuna, barracuda, wahoo, and marlin, to name a few.
Jellyfish Lake
An attraction most can only dream of;this daring and unusual phenomenona, Jellyfish Lake, departs radically from convention; for it is an enclosed body of water wherein - over the course of a millennia - resident jellyfish have completely lost their sting because they have not had to fight off predators. Instead, they spend their days in privileged leisure, pulsating gently from one side of the lake to the other while catching the sun's rays and farming their own food supply of algae thus allowing interested adventure seekers a rare opportunity to swim amongst this truly unique water creatures
Kayaking
Palau was made for kayaking. Paddle your way into any one of hundreds of deserted bays and lagoons. With its perfectly unspoiled scenery, impeccably preserved reefs and coves, the serenity of nature’s pure embrace and the swirling sound of your paddles breaking through the turquoise surface and the flying birds overhead, unimpeded by the whine of a motor. Palau is probably the best place in the world for nature-loving kayakers.
Land Tours
While Koror offers shopping and Museums, Babeldaob is full of cultural/historic treasures, from the famous Badrulchau, or Stone Monoliths, to ancient terraces and Stone Faces. Hear the legends and history of these sites from a local guide and wonder about times past. Babeldaob’s terrain transforms gracefully from steep mountains to freshwater lakes to sand dunes along the longest natural beach in Palau. Blessed with these natural as well as historic wonders, ancient stone paths carved out of the jungle centuries ago lead to fascinating remnants of old villages and ancient hillside terraces. On the islands of Peleliu and Angaur, rustic remains are found in the scenic forests, intact after 60 years following one of the fiercest Pacific battles of WWII.
Rock Islands of Palau
Just recently inscribed as a World Heritage site for UNESCO. There have been many descriptions of the Rock Islands, including "A labyrinth of emeralds floating on a cobalt sea". Protected by a fringe reef, the placid waters are a haven for snorkeling, swimming, fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing on the sugary white sand beaches.
Shopping
Discover Palau's diversity of shopping for local handicrafts and other souvenirs.
Palau Aquarium
The Palau Aquarium at the Palau International Coral Reef Center is the best place to experience Palau's unique marine world without even getting your feet wet. The thematic exhibits showcase outdoor pools and indoor aquarium tanks teeming with Palau’s exotic marine life.
Museums
Learn more about Palauan culture, history and the arts through impressive exhibits showcased at museums in Palau. Visit the oldest museum in the Micronesian region since 1955, the Belau National Museum featuring exhibits of Palau’s culture and history. Or visit Palau’s only private museum, Etpison Museum featuring private collections of Palauan and Micronesian artifact exhibits, history and nature, gift shop, Wyland mural and story boards. In Peleliu, visit the Peleliu WWII Memorial Museum showcasing artifacts of one of the fiercest battle in the Pacific.
Dining
What are you craving? Search for your favorite flavor. Palau has many different kinds of restaurants, including Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Indian, Italian, Palauan, Mediterranean, and many more to choose from.
Federated States of Micronesia
Yap
Yap is known as a premier dive destinations, about 90% of arrivals are scuba divers. Manta Ray, Mandarin Fish, sharks, turtles, corals, caves, caverns, drop-offs, soft/hard corals, gardens, etc, etc, are the highlights of diving.
Cultural/Natural products such as stone paths, hiking trails, stone money banks, local dances, local food, outrigger sailing canoes, kayaking, war relics and wrecks, beaches, flora and fauna, aerial views, etc are also developed to catered to the non-divers.
Chuuk
Scuba enthusiasts regard the Truk Lagoon Underwater Fleet as one of the world's most intriguing dives. More than 60 submerged vessels and several downed aircraft rest in the depths of the lagoon, forming the world's largest underwater museum. In 1971 the legislature established the entire area as the Chuuk State Monument.
Built by the Japanese in the early 1930's, the Sapuk Lighthouse was constructed atop a hill commanding a panoramic view of the strategic Northeast Passage. Below the lighthouse are huge guns used to prevent American ships from entering the lagoon. The abandoned houses of lighthouse guards stand nearby in eerie silence.
The Japanese Wartime Communications Center is the principal structure in the complex of buildings that now comprise Xavier High School. Built of reinforced concrete with walls three to four Feet thick, the massive building sustained little damage despite direct hits from U.S. Bombers.
The property on which the building stands had been purchased by the Catholic Church prior to the war, and when it was reclaimed, decided to repair the structure and use it as a nucleus for a Jesuit high school. Today the complex includes classroom buildings, a chapel, living quarters and offices for staff members, a study hall, gymnasium, workshop, mess facilities, and student dormitory.
The Tonata Guns and Caves serve as other reminders of wartime. Japanese Forces fortified many natural caves on Weno and other islands in Chuuk. Sometimes, as on FeFan and Tonowas, they enlarged the caves to install guns, or rails for the transportation of munitions and stores. The Tonata installations are typical of those found throughout the former bastion of Chuuk.
Tonachau Mountain Iras is, at 229 meters, the loftiest peak on Weno. The mountain is the legendary home of the God Souwoniras and his divine son. Situated by the Wichon River and Falls, the Wichon Men's Meeting House is the spot where Weno chiefs are reported to have met with Poomey, eldest of the six brothers who were the first chiefs of Chuuk. The shallow pool at the base of the Falls is still used for bathing and sport, just as it was in historic times. The site of Poomey's dwelling on a mountaintop may be seen From here and his gardens are nearby. Numerous petroglyphs are etched in the exposed basalt above the falls.
Nefo Cave, just 50 meters From the Governor's residence, is about 10 feet wide, 6 feet high and 78 Feet long. The cave contains a gun used by Japanese soldiers to guard entry to the north pass, and many of the soldiers lived there.
Other islands in the Truk Lagoon have historic and scenic sites well worth a visit.Nemwes and Fouman Rocks, in Tunuk and Onip on Udot Island, are associated with the tales of the ancient rivalries between Chuuk and Yap, an island group that lies to the southwest. Legend has it that Nemwes, the daughter of a Yapese high chief, disobeyed her Father's wishes and came to Udot by walking across the sea. But when the priests of Udot destroyed her power to walk on water, Nemwes died of grief.
Chuuk Atoll, in the Caroline Islands, encompasses 15 large islands, 192 islands and 80 islets and has one of the largest lagoons in the world. It measures 85 kilometers at its widest point and encloses an area of 822 square miles.
What lies beneath the blue waters is a submerged museum of World War II wrecks, for there are more than sixty ships of the Japanese wartime fleet encrusted with coral and lying at various depths.
On these wrecks are fighter planes still transports, trucks still lashed to the decks of freighters, and officers' china and utensils with brand names still recognizable.
The lagoon has been declared a monument, and salvage and souvenir taking of relics is prohibited by law. Divers must obtain a permit before diving around the ships.
One of the two top scuba diving locations in the world. Chuuk's water temperatures are 29 degrees C and incredibly calm between December and May. Average temperature above water is 30 degrees C.
Pohnpei
Sights of Pohnpei
The Nan Madol ruins are one of more than 100 sites of historical significance from the pre-contact period till Trust Territory. This is a mysterious man made city that was once housing a thriving royal civilization. Archaeologists and engineers are attempting to discover more about the race which constructed the island city. However, much is still to be learned about mysterious ancient stone City Island. Nan Madol is reached by boat or car from the main town of Kolonia.
A 20-minute ride out of Kolonia takes you to the Nanpil River and a large natural pool where the river temporarily slows down. Further along the same river are the spectacular Liduduhniap Twin Waterfalls where you can rest or picnic in a natural jungle setting. A day trip to privately owned Nahlap and Black Coral Island in the lagoon is the perfect way to safely snorkel the reef. For a family day, visit Nihco Marine and Resort, Nahlap and Black Coral Islands with its simple cottages where visitors can stay overnight for a small fee.
In Kolonia you can see the Spanish Wall, built in 1889 as a boundary for Fort Alphonso XII. Nearby is the Catholic Mission Bell Tower, all that remains of the old German church torn down by the Japanese during WWII. Also take a stroll into the Kapingamarani village and watch the craftsmen whittle ornaments from locally grown ivory seed. Most tours operate from Kolonia, and many of the waterfalls and areas of historical and ecological importance can only be reached by guided tour.
Water Activities
Surrounded largely by rich mangrove forests, Pohnpei’s jagged coastline is intersected by numerous channels that carry nutrients into the vast lagoon. These nutrients attract marine life and make Pohnpei on of the most varied marine environments in Micronesia.
The fishing and diving around the island is superb. Warm, crystal clear water, untouched reefs teeming with marine life, dazzling corals, manta rays, sea turtle, white and black tipped reefs, sharks, barracuda and breath taking drop-offs are beckon enthusiastic divers. The island coral reefs and colorful drop-off are enchanting. Sea anemones, soft corals and colorful gorgonian sea fans are dotting the walls.
The neighboring atolls, Ant and Pakin Atoll, and black coral Island are the best known dive location in Pohnpei and are just a short boat trip away. The atolls exude the aura of paradise unspoiled. Here, the true meaning of pristine diving comes to the fore. Whether it be riding a raging current out to sea through an island pass or exploring the deep fan-laden chasm, the atolls are a fantastic experience. Outer island journeys are available via charter plane or government boat (Mwoakilloa, Pingelap, Nukuoro, Sapwafik, and Kapingamarangi).
Pohnpei is now known in the surfing world for its awesome waves at the Palikir pass. Surf Magazines, Professional surfers and intrepid travelers alike have been traveling here to sample the huge potential that the islands hold for surfing. With cross and cross-off conditions prevalent throughout the year, Pohnpei have some of the perfect set-up for surfing, kite surfing and more. Visit the Pohnpei Surf Club website at www.pohnpeisurfclub.com to get an update a about surfing in Pohnpei.
Nature Trails
Natural Parks and recreation include Keprohi, Liduduniap, Sahwartik, Pahnsile, Pahn Takai and Nankewi. Each site has a waterfall with pool for swimming. One of its boldest landmarks is the Sokehs Rock, a steep cliff face that has spectacular panoramic views over Kolonia, the airport, and the barrier reef.
Cultural Experience
Pohnpei is famous for its energetic dance and also the relaxing drinking sakau, a kava-like brew drink use in ceremonies and also sold in bars. Watching sakau being prepared is an experience unique to Pohnpei. Enjoy the mild root tincture on the rock in a local sakau market or in one of many remote villages of the island to experience the true essence of Pohnpei. Pohnpei people offer a look at family life island style. Communities come together to weave a new boat house or just wash clothes. Kids frolic in the water of the many rivers that flow from the mountains and down past the villages.
Kosrae
Kosrae's attractions are varied and numerous, focusing on history, culture, and the environment. It is one of the places in the world that has true ecotourism and free access to Museum. Here are some of them: Historical Ruins: Lelu is One of the wonders of the Neolithic world, and an archaeologists dream. Menka is a reminder of Kosrae’s past: there you will see some basalt walls, chambered living quarters and religious platforms. Hiking Mt.Finkol is for the adventurous, experienced and fit traveler since this is Kosrae’s highest peak. Wiya Bird Cave :The bird cave, located in Tafunsak about two miles from the airport and is home to thousands of Island Swiftlets. Oma Hiking Trail: It was once a Japanese command post during the Second World War. Sipyen Waterfall is a refreshing 30 foot cascade of mountain waters that bathers and photographers alike will enjoy. Kosrae Museum: Ancient artifacts and restored photos of Kosraean history and culture are kept here free access. Giant Clam Farm: This is a national project where protected giant clams can reach up to 3 feet and weigh 500lbs! YELA Ka Forest : An Endemic Species Tour: View the last and only Terminalia Carolinses stand in the world.
Marshall Islands
Diving and Adventure
If there is one thing the islands are really rich in, it’s its waters. With the help of our divers, let us really show you the treasures of our islands. The waters of Bikini atoll offer a dynamic dive museum. Dive and explore the only diveable aircraft carriers in the world from the WWII. Moreover, dive the Japanese flagship that led the attack on Pearl Harbor and more.
While on Majuro, make some time to cruise the lagoon and visit the small islets. The sea is an open playground for kayaking and snorkeling. Swim with the small fishes and see the underwater garden of thriving and healthy corals at Robert Reimer Hotel’s Eneko island or the other small islands of Majuro lagoon.
Do a bit of exploring and take a day trip to the far west end of Majuro to Laura village. On your way, stop by at Peace Park Memorial, constructed by the Japanese government in commemoration of the soldiers who fought and died in the Pacific during WWII.
The island of Arno, which is less than an hour away from Majuro, offers a variety of activities. Book yourself for a night or two in Arno’s Bed and Breakfast and dive your heart’s delight, relax on the beach, hike or bike into the jungle, or listen to the sound of waves breaking along miles of sandy beach or ride them!
Handicraft/Souvenir Shopping
Majuro is the best place to shop for the hand-made, all natural and finest Marshallese handicrafts in Micronesia. You can easily find local t-shirts, postcards, etc on Majuro shops.
Marshalls Billfish Club Tournaments: You can witness one of the more popular events on Majuro. You will see a variety of fish being weighed in as numerous anglers compete for prizes. These fish include blue marlin, yellow fin tuna, skipjack, mahi-mahi, etc.