Things to Do in Nauru

About Nauru

Nauru sits in the Pacific Ocean on just 21 square kilometers, making it the world's smallest island nation. Fewer tourists walk its beaches than have summited Everest. Ancient Polynesian heritage meets the scars of phosphate mining—traditional outrigger canoes glide past abandoned colonial operations in the lagoons. The interior is haunting. Decades of extraction left coral pinnacles and hidden pools across a landscape photographers can't resist. The coastline remains untouched, where frigatebirds soar and Pacific waves provide the only sound you'll hear. True isolation is rare now. Nauru delivers it. Sunsets feel personal, locals share stories of resilience and warmth, and you remember that unexpected places hold real beauty.

Travel Tips

Transportation: The island has one 19-kilometer ring road that takes 30 minutes to drive completely. Car rental from Menen Hotel costs $50-70 AUD daily - book ahead as options are limited. The sole taxi service charges $10-20 AUD across the island but operates irregular hours. Walking and cycling are viable given the small size. Nauru Airlines flies to Brisbane twice weekly for $800-1,200 AUD. The island's only bus service runs sporadically for $2 AUD per trip. Most tourists rent cars from the airport upon arrival through pre-arranged bookings.

Money: Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency. Bendigo Bank is the only ATM, often out of service. Bring sufficient cash as card payments are limited to Menen Hotel and the few restaurants. Budget $80-120 AUD daily including meals and accommodation. No tipping culture exists. Digicel accepts payments for phone credit. The government-run store takes cash only. Prices are 30-50% higher than Australia due to import costs. Emergency cash advances possible through Bendigo Bank during business hours only.

Cultural Respect: Greet with 'Ekamawit omo' (good day) in Nauruan or English 'Hello'. The island has 12 districts, each with distinct family clans. Respect for elders is paramount - always acknowledge older residents first. Photography of phosphate mining sites requires government permission. Sunday is strictly observed - most businesses close. Traditional fishing knowledge is highly valued - ask locals about techniques respectfully. The Nauruan flag features a 12-pointed star representing the 12 tribes. Political discussions should be approached carefully given the small, interconnected community.

Food Safety: Fresh fish at Capelle & Partner restaurant costs $25-35 AUD per meal. Coconut crab, when available, runs $40-50 AUD. The Chinese restaurant offers meals for $18-28 AUD. Canned goods from the government store cost double Australian prices. Traditional pandanus fruit is free when in season. Rainwater is the main drinking source - bottled water costs $8-12 AUD per liter. BBQ fish with rice at local gatherings typically costs $15-20 AUD. Import restrictions mean fresh vegetables are rare and expensive at $10-15 AUD per kilogram.

When to Visit

Nauru enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures consistently ranging from 26-30°C (79-86°F). The dry season (May-October) offers the most comfortable conditions with lower humidity, minimal rainfall (50-100mm monthly), and refreshing trade winds. This period sees 20-30% higher accommodation rates due to optimal weather. The wet season (November-April) brings higher humidity, frequent afternoon showers, and monthly rainfall of 200-300mm, though temperatures remain pleasant. Hotel rates drop 25-35% during this period, making it ideal for budget travelers who don't mind occasional tropical downpours. Nauru Day (January 31st) is the island's most significant celebration, featuring traditional dancing, feasting, and cultural displays—book accommodation well in advance for this period. Angam Day (October 26th) has another cultural experience with fewer crowds. The island receives fewer than 200 tourists annually, so 'peak season' is relative. May-July provides the perfect balance of excellent weather and reasonable prices. First-time visitors should consider June-September for optimal conditions, while photographers will love the dramatic skies of the wet season months. Cultural ensoiasts should time visits around the January or October celebrations for authentic local experiences.