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Discovering Nauru: The Pacific's Hidden Gem

Two Days on the World's Smallest Island Republic

Trip Overview

Experience the unique charm of Nauru, the world's third-smallest country, on this immersive two-day getaway. This itinerary balances historical exploration with natural beauty, taking you from the haunting phosphate mining landscapes to pristine coastal areas. You'll discover remnants of World War II history, explore rugged coral pinnacles, snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, and gain insight into the island's fascinating past and resilient culture. With a relaxed pace perfect for this 21-square-kilometer island, you'll have time to connect with locals, enjoy fresh seafood, and witness stunning Pacific sunsets. This compact destination offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure unlike anywhere else in Oceania.

Pace
Relaxed
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
May to October (dry season with cooler temperatures)
Ideal For
Adventure seekers, History enthusiasts, Off-the-beaten-path travelers, Pacific island explorers, Photography enthusiasts

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Coastal Exploration & WWII Heritage

Western and Southern Nauru
Begin your Nauru adventure exploring the island's dramatic coastline, discovering World War II relics, and experiencing the unique landscape shaped by phosphate mining history.
Morning
Coastal walk and Anibare Bay exploration
Start your day at Anibare Bay on the eastern coast, Nauru's most beautiful beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Take a refreshing swim in the calm lagoon, perfect for snorkeling among tropical fish and coral formations. Walk along the coastline to appreciate the dramatic contrast between the serene beach and the rugged coral cliffs. The morning light offers excellent photography opportunities of this pristine Pacific setting.
2-3 hours $0 (free natural attraction)
Lunch
A local eatery serving fresh seafood near the coast
Pacific seafood and Chinese-influenced dishes Budget
Afternoon
Command Ridge and WWII bunker exploration
Visit Command Ridge, the island's highest point at 71 meters, offering panoramic views of the entire island and surrounding Pacific Ocean. Explore the remaining Japanese WWII bunkers, gun emplacements, and coastal defense structures that dot the area. The site provides fascinating insight into Nauru's strategic importance during the war. Continue to explore other coastal defense remnants and the haunting beauty of the phosphate pinnacles that dominate the island's interior plateau.
3-4 hours $0 (free historical sites)
Evening
Sunset viewing and dinner
Watch the spectacular Pacific sunset from the western coast, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving traditional Pacific dishes with fresh local fish and coconut-based preparations

Where to Stay Tonight

Ewa Lodge (Comfortable guesthouse accommodation)

Ewa Lodge provides convenient access to island attractions and offers one of the few established accommodation options on the island with reliable amenities

Bring reef shoes for beach exploration as coral can be sharp, and always carry plenty of water as the tropical sun is intense and shade is limited in many areas
Day 1 Budget: $140-200
2

Island Circuit & Cultural Immersion

Northern Nauru and Buada Lagoon
Complete a full island circuit, visit the unique inland lagoon, and immerse yourself in local culture while exploring the fascinating phosphate mining landscape.
Morning
Buada Lagoon and island interior exploration
Visit Buada Lagoon, Nauru's only inland water body and a lush oasis surrounded by tropical vegetation in stark contrast to the barren phosphate lands. Walk around this freshwater lagoon, home to various bird species and traditional banana and coconut plantations. The area offers a glimpse into pre-mining Nauru and remains one of the few fertile areas on the island. Experience the eerie beauty of the coral pinnacles in the central plateau, remnants of extensive phosphate extraction.
2-3 hours $0 (free natural site)
Lunch
A casual dining spot serving island staples
Local Pacific cuisine with rice, fish, and tropical fruits Budget
Afternoon
Complete island circuit and cultural sites
Drive or cycle the coastal ring road that circles the entire island in about 30-40 minutes, stopping at points of interest including Moqua Well, one of the few freshwater sources, and the Parliament House area. Visit the small harbor to see local fishing boats and observe daily island life. Stop at the Nauru Museum if open to learn about the island's unique history, from ancient Micronesian settlement through German colonial period, Japanese occupation, and the phosphate boom and bust.
3-4 hours $10-15 (transport rental if needed)
Evening
Farewell dinner and stargazing
Enjoy a final meal featuring grilled fish and local specialties, then experience the incredible night sky from the coast, far from light pollution, where the Milky Way is spectacularly visible

Where to Stay Tonight

Ewa Lodge (Comfortable guesthouse accommodation)

Returning to the same accommodation maximizes your exploration time and provides a familiar base for your final night

Arrange transport in advance as taxis are limited; many visitors rent bicycles or motorcycles to explore the island independently, which is easy given the flat coastal road
Day 2 Budget: $120-160

Practical Information

Getting Around

Nauru has no public transportation system. The main options are renting a bicycle or motorcycle to tour the 19-kilometer coastal ring road, or arranging taxi services through your accommodation. Walking is feasible for nearby attractions, but the tropical heat makes cycling or motorized transport more comfortable for full island exploration. Most of the island can be circled in 30-40 minutes by vehicle. Arrange all transport through your accommodation or upon arrival at the airport.

Book Ahead

Book accommodation well in advance as options are extremely limited on the island. Confirm your accommodation booking before arrival. No advance booking needed for attractions as they are natural sites and historical remnants accessible freely.

Packing Essentials

Reef shoes, sunscreen, hat, lightweight breathable clothing, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, snorkeling gear (if you have your own), camera, cash in Australian dollars (limited ATM availability), and any medications you need

Total Budget

$260-360 for 2 days (excluding flights and accommodation)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay at more basic guesthouses, prepare some meals yourself if kitchen facilities are available, rent a bicycle instead of motorcycle for transport, pack your own snacks and water, and focus on free natural attractions and historical sites which comprise most of Nauru's appeal anyway.

Luxury Upgrade

While Nauru has limited luxury infrastructure, upgrade by arranging private guided tours with local experts who can provide deeper historical and cultural context, hire a private vehicle with driver for maximum comfort, arrange special seafood dinners with fresh catches, and consider chartering a boat for offshore fishing or marine exploration around the island.

Family-Friendly

Nauru is suitable for families with older children who can appreciate unique destinations. Focus more time at Anibare Bay for swimming and beach activities, bring plenty of entertainment for kids as there are no commercial attractions, pack familiar snacks as food options are limited, and ensure children stay hydrated and sun-protected in the intense tropical climate.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Nauru

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Nauru

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Nauru

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Nauru

Plan Your Perfect Trip

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