Top Attractions in Nauru

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Written By Benjamin Joseph Taylor

Nauru, the world’s third smallest country by land area, is a hidden gem in the Pacific Ocean, offering an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers looking for tranquility, natural beauty, and a unique cultural experience. Known for its rich phosphate mining industry, Nauru also boasts pristine beaches, unique landscapes, and a fascinating history. Despite its small size, Nauru offers several attractions that showcase the country’s natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural heritage.

Here are the top attractions in Nauru that should be on your list:

1. Anibare Bay – A Tropical Paradise

Anibare Bay is one of Nauru’s most picturesque locations, known for its white sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This idyllic spot offers an escape into nature, where visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach. Anibare Bay is also a popular spot for picnics and barbecues, and it's the perfect place to unwind while enjoying the beauty of the island’s coastline.

Snorkeling & Swimming: The waters around Anibare Bay are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and a diverse marine life to explore.
Scenic Views: The surrounding palm trees and rolling hills provide a stunning backdrop for visitors, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

2. Nauru's Phosphate Mines – A Glimpse into the Island’s Industrial Past

Nauru’s economy has been historically driven by phosphate mining, and a visit to the country wouldn’t be complete without learning about this vital part of its history. The vast phosphate mines, which once provided a significant portion of the world’s phosphate, cover much of the island’s interior. Although mining operations have decreased, the remnants of the industry are still visible, providing a fascinating look at the island’s industrial past.

Boeing-747 Wreck: One of the more unusual attractions linked to phosphate mining is the wreckage of a Boeing 747 that sits near the mines. The plane was used in the past as part of the island’s aviation history and now serves as an eerie reminder of Nauru’s industrial and transportation evolution.
Scenic Drives: Visitors can take a scenic drive through the phosphate mines and witness the stark, almost lunar-like landscape created by decades of extraction.

3. Command Ridge – Nauru's Highest Point

Command Ridge is the highest point on the island, standing at just 65 meters above sea level, but it offers one of the best panoramic views of Nauru. The ridge is historically significant, as it was once the site of Japanese military installations during World War II. Visitors can explore remnants of these World War II-era bunkers and artillery positions while taking in the breathtaking views of the island’s coastlines, lush greenery, and phosphate mines.

Historical Significance: In addition to its natural beauty, Command Ridge also offers a historical insight into the Japanese occupation of Nauru during the war. Visitors can see old World War II fortifications and learn about the impact of the war on the island.
Great for Photography: The ridge is a perfect spot for photography, with sweeping views that offer a unique perspective of Nauru.

4. Nauru National Museum – A Cultural Journey

The Nauru National Museum offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s rich cultural history, from its early settlement by Polynesian and Micronesian peoples to its more recent history shaped by European colonization, phosphate mining, and World War II. The museum houses exhibits on traditional Nauruan art, artifacts, and photographs that tell the story of the island’s evolution over the centuries.

Artifacts and Exhibitions: The museum displays cultural objects such as tools, clothing, and crafts, as well as information on Nauru’s indigenous people and their way of life.
Insight into Nauru’s Past: Visitors can learn about the island’s colonial history, its role in global phosphate mining, and its unique political and economic circumstances.

5. Yaren – The Capital and Heart of Nauru

Yaren, the capital district of Nauru, is where most of the country’s government buildings and services are located. Although not a city in the traditional sense, Yaren serves as the administrative and cultural heart of the island. Here, visitors can experience a blend of modern life and traditional Nauruan culture.

Nauru Government Building: The government building in Yaren is a modern structure that serves as the focal point for the island’s politics and administration.
Local Markets and Cafes: Yaren is also home to a few markets and local eateries where visitors can sample Nauruan cuisine and interact with the friendly locals. Traditional Nauruan dishes often feature fish, coconut, and root vegetables.

6. Ijuw Beach – A Quiet Seaside Escape

For those seeking a more secluded beach experience, Ijuw Beach is an excellent choice. Situated on the western side of the island, Ijuw Beach is one of Nauru’s less-visited beaches, offering a peaceful environment perfect for relaxation. The beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs and features calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Unspoiled Beauty: Unlike the more touristy beaches, Ijuw Beach remains relatively untouched, giving visitors a true sense of solitude and the opportunity to connect with nature.
Snorkeling: The coral reefs around Ijuw Beach are rich in marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling.

7. Moqua Well – A Natural Freshwater Spring

Located in the interior of Nauru, Moqua Well is a freshwater spring surrounded by lush vegetation. The well is one of the island’s few natural sources of freshwater, making it an important historical and cultural site for the Nauruan people. The area is a peaceful retreat, with shaded areas and a tranquil ambiance.

Exploration and Relaxation: Moqua Well is a nice spot for a quiet walk through the island’s inland landscapes. Visitors can relax by the well, enjoy the surrounding greenery, and learn about the importance of freshwater on this small island nation.
Photography: The well and its surroundings offer beautiful natural scenery that is perfect for photography.

8. Nauru’s WWII Sites – A Historical Legacy

Nauru’s involvement in World War II left a significant mark on the island, and there are several historical sites related to the conflict that are worth visiting. Apart from the remnants of Japanese bunkers and military installations at Command Ridge, there are other wartime relics scattered across the island.

Japanese Bunkers: Scattered throughout the island, these bunkers offer a glimpse into the island's role as a strategic military outpost during the war.
Memorials and Cemeteries: There are also war memorials and cemeteries that pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the Japanese occupation.

9. Belt's Colony and the Island’s Eco-System

The area known as Belt’s Colony is a natural zone located on the island's eastern side. It's a rare example of Nauru’s native plant and animal life, and it provides a glimpse into the island’s eco-system before industrial development. The area is ideal for those interested in botany or nature walks.

10. Nauru's Unique Rock Formations

In addition to its beautiful beaches and hills, Nauru also has some fascinating geological features, such as unique limestone formations and cliffs that make for great exploration. These formations, many of which were created by erosion over millennia, create striking natural landscapes that are perfect for sightseeing and photography.

Conclusion

Nauru may be small in size, but it is big in unique attractions that offer a rich blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in relaxing on pristine beaches, exploring wartime relics, hiking through the island’s hills, or learning about the phosphate industry, Nauru offers something for everyone. Its remote location makes it an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, away from the crowds and close to nature.