50 Best Places to Visit in Nauru: Complete Island Travel Guide

Nauru, the world’s smallest island nation, may be compact in size but offers a wealth of unique experiences for adventurous travelers. This remote Pacific gem boasts pristine beaches, fascinating historical sites, and a rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered. At just 21 square kilometers, Nauru packs an impressive array of attractions into its tiny footprint, making it possible to explore many highlights in a single visit.

Before embarking on your Nauru adventure, two essential preparations will ensure a smooth journey. First, staying connected is crucial in this remote location – an eSIM provides reliable internet access without hunting for local SIM cards. Second, securing the best flight and accommodation deals early is vital as options are limited on this secluded island.

Natural Attractions in Nauru

Nauru’s natural landscape features a striking contrast between coastal beauty and unique inland formations. These natural wonders showcase the island’s geological history and provide visitors with memorable experiences.

Anibare Bay’s pristine waters make it perfect for swimming and relaxation

1. Anibare Bay

Anibare Bay stands as Nauru’s most picturesque beach, featuring soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This eastern coastline gem offers excellent swimming conditions and stunning sunrise views. The bay’s natural harbor, protected by a man-made stone barrier, creates a safe environment for water activities.

Location: Eastern coast of Nauru
Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, photography, sunrise viewing

2. Buada Lagoon

This freshwater lagoon sits in a natural depression surrounded by lush vegetation in Nauru’s interior. The peaceful inland oasis provides a stark contrast to the coastal landscapes and serves as an important freshwater source for the island. The surrounding palm trees create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Location: Central Nauru, Buada District
Best for: Bird watching, photography, peaceful walks

3. Moqua Caves

These fascinating limestone caves near the airport contain underground freshwater pools and unique geological formations. The caves offer a cool retreat from the tropical heat and provide insight into the island’s geological history. Local guides can explain the cultural significance of these caves to Nauruan people.

Location: South coast near Nauru International Airport
Best for: Cave exploration, photography, cooling off

4. Command Ridge Lookout

At 65 meters above sea level, Command Ridge is Nauru’s highest point, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the entire island. The ridge provides spectacular photo opportunities of both the coastline and interior. Early morning visits offer the clearest views before the day’s heat creates haze.

Location: Central Nauru
Best for: Photography, panoramic views, sunrise/sunset watching

5. Anibare Harbour

This man-made harbor provides a protected area for swimming and fishing away from the strong ocean currents. The harbor is a hub of local activity where you can watch fishermen bring in their daily catch. The stone seawall offers a pleasant walking path with ocean views.

Location: Anibare District, eastern coast
Best for: Safe swimming, fishing, local culture observation

Historical Sites and Cultural Landmarks

Nauru’s complex history, from traditional Nauruan culture through colonial periods and World War II, has left fascinating historical sites across the island.

World War II Japanese gun emplacements remain at Command Ridge

6. Japanese WWII Fortifications

Command Ridge houses well-preserved Japanese bunkers, gun emplacements, and communication centers from World War II. These historical structures offer insight into Nauru’s strategic importance during the Pacific War. The rusted artillery pieces and concrete fortifications create a somber reminder of wartime history.

Location: Command Ridge
Best for: Military history, photography, historical education

7. Nauru Phosphate Museum

This small but informative museum documents the history of phosphate mining that once made Nauru one of the world’s richest nations per capita. Exhibits include mining equipment, historical photographs, and cultural artifacts. The museum provides context for understanding the dramatic economic changes Nauru has experienced.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Industrial history, cultural education, photography

8. Parliament House

Nauru’s distinctive parliament building in Yaren District showcases modern Pacific island architecture and serves as the seat of government. The building is often accessible to visitors, offering a glimpse into the political structure of one of the world’s smallest democracies.

Location: Yaren District
Best for: Political interest, architecture, photography

9. Nauru Regional Processing Centre (Historical Site)

This former detention center for asylum seekers has been a controversial part of Nauru’s recent history. While no longer in full operation, the site represents an important chapter in both Nauru’s and Australia’s political history. Viewing is limited to exterior areas only.

Location: Topside area
Best for: Contemporary history, political interest

10. Traditional Nauruan Village Replica

This cultural site recreates traditional Nauruan housing and lifestyle from before European contact. Visitors can learn about indigenous customs, crafts, and daily life of early Nauruans. Cultural demonstrations sometimes take place, including traditional cooking methods.

Location: Near Buada Lagoon
Best for: Cultural education, photography, traditional crafts

Beaches and Swimming Spots

Despite its small size, Nauru offers several distinct coastal areas for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation. Each beach has its own character and features.

Nauru’s beaches offer spectacular sunset views over the Pacific

11. Anibare Beach

Beyond the harbor area, Anibare Beach extends with powdery white sand and excellent swimming conditions during calm weather. The beach offers natural shade from coconut palms and is rarely crowded, providing a sense of having your own private paradise.

Location: Anibare District
Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, relaxation

12. Gabab Channel

This natural channel through the reef creates a unique swimming area where fresh and saltwater mix. The channel features interesting coral formations and is a popular spot for local swimmers. The water here is typically calmer than open ocean beaches.

Location: Between Anibare and Ijuw Districts
Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, marine life observation

13. Anabar Beach

This less-visited northern beach offers dramatic volcanic rock formations and tide pools teeming with marine life. The beach provides excellent opportunities for exploring coastal ecosystems and finding unique shells and coral fragments.

Location: Anabar District
Best for: Tide pool exploration, beachcombing, photography

14. Meneng Beach

Located near the government buildings, this beach offers convenient access and facilities for visitors. The beach has historical significance as a landing site during World War II and features interpretive signage about this period.

Location: Meneng District
Best for: Convenient swimming, historical interest, family visits

15. Yaren Beach

Near the airport, this beach offers interesting plane spotting opportunities combined with ocean views. The beach has interesting coral formations and is popular with local families on weekends. The nearby reef creates protected areas for swimming.

Location: Yaren District
Best for: Plane spotting, family swimming, weekend atmosphere

Activities and Experiences

Beyond sightseeing, Nauru offers unique activities that allow visitors to experience local culture and natural environments in engaging ways.

Deep sea fishing is a popular activity in Nauru’s rich waters

16. Deep Sea Fishing

The steep drop-off near Nauru’s coast creates excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities for marlin, tuna, and barracuda. Local operators offer half-day and full-day fishing charters with equipment provided. The best fishing occurs during the early morning hours.

Location: Departing from Anibare Harbour
Best for: Sport fishing, photography, ocean adventure

17. Nauru Coastal Track

This 19-kilometer road circling the entire island can be walked, cycled, or driven in approximately 3-4 hours. The track offers changing views of coastline, villages, and historical sites, allowing visitors to circumnavigate an entire country in a single day.

Location: Circumnavigates the island
Best for: Walking, cycling, driving tour, photography

18. Aussie Rules Football Match

Experience Nauru’s national passion by watching a local Australian Rules Football match at one of several fields around the island. The sport is deeply embedded in Nauruan culture, and matches offer insight into local community life and recreation.

Location: Various fields around the island
Best for: Cultural immersion, sports photography, local interaction

19. Nauru Cultural Performance

Traditional dance and music performances showcase Nauruan cultural heritage through storytelling, rhythmic movements, and distinctive costumes. Performances are typically arranged through hotels or local cultural organizations and offer insight into pre-colonial traditions.

Location: Various venues, often at Menen Hotel
Best for: Cultural education, photography, entertainment

20. Topside Phosphate Lands Tour

This guided tour explores the dramatic landscape created by decades of phosphate mining, featuring limestone pinnacles and moon-like terrain. The tour provides context about the environmental and economic impacts of mining on Nauru’s development.

Location: Central plateau area
Best for: Industrial tourism, photography, environmental education

The unique limestone pinnacles of Nauru’s interior created by phosphate mining

Dining and Shopping Experiences

While Nauru isn’t known as a culinary or shopping destination, there are several places to experience local flavors and find unique souvenirs.

Fresh seafood is a highlight of Nauruan cuisine

21. Menen Hotel Restaurant

The island’s largest hotel offers a restaurant serving both international cuisine and local specialties featuring fresh seafood and tropical ingredients. The restaurant provides reliable dining options with air conditioning and ocean views from some tables.

Location: Anibare District
Best for: Reliable dining, international options, comfortable setting

22. Capelle & Partner Supermarket

This well-stocked supermarket offers local and imported foods, beverages, and basic necessities. The store is a good place to observe everyday Nauruan life and purchase snacks, drinks, and basic supplies for your stay.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Groceries, snacks, everyday supplies

23. Jules Market

This local market offers fresh produce, seafood, and prepared foods with a distinctly Nauruan flavor. The market provides opportunities to interact with locals and sample authentic island cuisine not found in restaurants.

Location: Near Buada Lagoon
Best for: Fresh produce, local food, cultural interaction

24. Civic Centre Handicraft Shop

This small shop sells locally made crafts including woven items, shell jewelry, and carved wooden pieces that make unique souvenirs. The crafts represent traditional Nauruan artistic traditions and support local artisans.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Souvenirs, local crafts, gift shopping

25. Nauru Philatelic Bureau

Nauru’s colorful and distinctive postage stamps make excellent souvenirs and are available at this specialized office. The stamps often feature Nauruan wildlife, culture, and historical events, making them both collectible and educational.

Location: Government Offices, Yaren District
Best for: Stamp collecting, unique souvenirs, postal services

Where to Stay in Nauru

Accommodation options in Nauru are limited but provide comfortable bases for exploring the island. Advance booking is essential as capacity is restricted.

The Menen Hotel is Nauru’s largest accommodation option

26. Menen Hotel

Nauru’s largest hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool with ocean views. The hotel provides reliable accommodation with Western amenities and serves as a social hub for visitors and locals alike.

Location: Anibare District
Best for: Comfortable stay, dining options, swimming pool

27. Od’n Aiwo Hotel

This smaller hotel provides basic but clean rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms at a lower price point than the Menen. The hotel’s restaurant serves simple meals and is conveniently located near government offices.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Budget accommodation, convenient location

28. Budapest Hotel

This small guesthouse offers simple rooms with shared facilities at budget-friendly rates. The family-run establishment provides a more authentic local experience and home-cooked meals can be arranged with advance notice.

Location: Boe District
Best for: Budget travelers, local experience, longer stays

29. Government Guesthouse

This basic accommodation is primarily for government visitors but sometimes available to tourists when not in official use. The guesthouse offers simple but functional rooms with essential amenities and is centrally located.

Location: Yaren District
Best for: Central location, basic accommodation

30. Private Home Stays

Some Nauruan families offer rooms in their homes to visitors, providing an authentic cultural experience and home-cooked meals. These arrangements are typically made through local connections or tour operators rather than online booking platforms.

Location: Various districts
Best for: Cultural immersion, authentic experience, budget travel

Practical Information for Visiting Nauru

Planning a trip to Nauru requires attention to several practical considerations that differ from more mainstream destinations.

Nauru International Airport connects the island to Brisbane, Fiji, and other Pacific destinations

31. Nauru International Airport

This small but functional airport is your gateway to Nauru, with limited flights operated by Nauru Airlines from Brisbane, Fiji, and other Pacific destinations. The airport features basic facilities including a small duty-free shop and immigration services.

Location: Yaren District
Best for: Arrival/departure, flight information

32. Nauru Government Information Office

This office provides official information about visiting Nauru, including visa requirements, local regulations, and cultural considerations. Staff can assist with questions about permitted activities and appropriate behavior during your stay.

Location: Government Offices, Yaren District
Best for: Official information, visitor assistance

33. Nauru Police Station

The main police station provides emergency services and can assist visitors with any safety concerns or lost property issues. The station is staffed 24 hours and officers are generally helpful to visitors.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Emergency services, safety information

34. Nauru General Hospital

This facility provides basic medical care for visitors experiencing health issues during their stay. The hospital has limited resources but can handle minor injuries and illnesses; serious conditions may require evacuation.

Location: Denigomodu District
Best for: Medical assistance, health emergencies

35. Bendigo Bank Nauru

The island’s only bank provides limited financial services including currency exchange and ATM access. Banking hours are limited, so plan accordingly for your cash needs during your stay.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Currency exchange, ATM services

More Unique Places to Explore

Beyond the main attractions, Nauru offers several lesser-known sites that provide insight into the island’s natural environment and culture.

Nauru’s wetland areas provide excellent bird watching opportunities

36. Nauru Community Library

This small library houses a collection of books about Nauru’s history, culture, and natural environment not easily found elsewhere. The library sometimes hosts cultural events and provides a quiet space to learn more about the island.

Location: Yaren District
Best for: Research, quiet reading, local information

37. Nauru Sports Complex

This facility hosts various sporting events including the popular Australian Rules Football matches that are central to Nauruan culture. The complex includes playing fields, a weight-lifting area (reflecting Nauru’s Olympic success in this sport), and basic spectator facilities.

Location: Meneng District
Best for: Sporting events, cultural activities, recreation

38. Nauru Radio Station

The island’s radio station broadcasts local news, music, and cultural programming that provides insight into contemporary Nauruan life. Visitors can sometimes arrange tours of the facility to learn about media in small island nations.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Media interest, cultural insights

39. Nauru Rehabilitation Corporation Nursery

This plant nursery is working to revegetate areas affected by phosphate mining, growing native species for environmental restoration. Visitors can learn about ecological recovery efforts and Nauru’s native plant species.

Location: Topside area
Best for: Environmental interest, sustainability education

40. Nauru College

The island’s main educational institution sometimes welcomes visitors interested in learning about education in Nauru. The campus provides insight into how this small nation prepares its youth for the future.

Location: Aiwo District
Best for: Educational interest, cultural exchange

Seasonal Attractions and Events

Timing your visit to coincide with Nauru’s cultural celebrations and natural phenomena can enhance your experience of the island.

Independence Day celebrations showcase Nauruan cultural traditions

41. Independence Day Celebrations (January 31)

Nauru’s national day features cultural performances, sports competitions, and community feasts that showcase the island’s traditions. The celebrations provide the best opportunity to experience Nauruan culture in its full expression.

Location: Various venues around the island
Best for: Cultural immersion, photography, festivities

42. Angam Day (October 26)

This unique celebration commemorates the recovery of the Nauruan population after near-extinction, featuring historical presentations and community events. The day provides insight into Nauru’s resilience and cultural preservation efforts.

Location: Various venues around the island
Best for: Historical interest, cultural events

43. Nauru Fishermen’s Day

This annual event celebrates the island’s fishing traditions with competitions, demonstrations, and seafood feasts. The celebration showcases traditional fishing methods and the importance of marine resources to Nauruan culture.

Location: Anibare Harbour
Best for: Cultural activities, seafood, photography

44. Noddy Bird Season (October-March)

During these months, thousands of noddy birds return to Nauru to nest, creating spectacular birdwatching opportunities. The traditional practice of noddy bird catching (now limited for conservation) is an important cultural tradition.

Location: Various coastal areas
Best for: Birdwatching, photography, nature observation

45. Whale Migration Season (June-October)

During these months, humpback whales pass near Nauru during their annual migration, sometimes visible from coastal vantage points. Early morning is the best time for whale spotting, particularly from elevated locations like Command Ridge.

Location: Best viewed from Command Ridge or coastal areas
Best for: Wildlife observation, photography, nature appreciation

Day Trip Itineraries

While Nauru is small enough to explore in a few days, these focused itineraries help maximize your experience of specific aspects of the island.

Cycling Nauru’s coastal road offers changing views and a pleasant breeze

46. Historical Nauru Tour

This self-guided itinerary focuses on Nauru’s complex history from pre-colonial times through phosphate mining and World War II. The route includes Command Ridge bunkers, the Phosphate Museum, and historical markers throughout the island.

Highlights: Command Ridge, WWII relics, Phosphate Museum, Parliament House
Best for: History enthusiasts, photography, educational experience

47. Natural Nauru Circuit

This nature-focused itinerary explores Nauru’s diverse ecosystems from coastal environments to the interior lagoon and limestone formations. The route includes swimming spots, bird watching locations, and geological features.

Highlights: Buada Lagoon, Anibare Bay, Moqua Caves, bird watching spots
Best for: Nature lovers, photography, swimming, relaxation

48. Cultural Immersion Day

This experience-focused itinerary emphasizes interaction with local culture through food, crafts, and community activities. The day includes visits to local markets, craft demonstrations, and opportunities to sample traditional cuisine.

Highlights: Local markets, craft demonstrations, community sports, traditional food
Best for: Cultural interest, photography, authentic experiences

49. Complete Island Circuit

This comprehensive itinerary circumnavigates the entire island, stopping at key attractions along the coastal road. The circuit can be completed by car in a few hours or by bicycle for a more immersive experience.

Highlights: All coastal districts, changing landscapes, various beaches, local communities
Best for: Overview experience, photography, efficient exploration

50. Nauru Sunset Experience

This evening-focused itinerary captures the spectacular sunset views from Nauru’s western coast, followed by stargazing in the low light pollution environment. The experience includes dinner at a local restaurant and relaxation on a quiet beach.

Highlights: Sunset viewing, stargazing, beach relaxation, local dining
Best for: Photography, romantic experience, peaceful conclusion to visit

Nauru’s minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities

Planning Your Nauru Adventure

Nauru may be small in size, but it offers a wealth of unique experiences for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations. From its fascinating history and stunning natural features to its warm local culture, Nauru rewards visitors with authentic experiences far from mainstream tourism.

When planning your trip, remember that facilities are limited and advance preparation is essential. Securing reliable connectivity through an eSIM will ensure you can navigate, translate, and share your experiences, while booking flights and accommodation well in advance will secure the best options in this remote location.

Create unforgettable memories exploring Nauru’s unique landscapes