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July 8, 2025
Blogs, Citizenship, Nauru

10 Must-See Attractions on Nauru Island: Discover This Pacific Treasure

Though small in size, Nauru Island is bursting with unique sights and experiences that showcase its rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. From the breathtaking Anibare Bay and ancient Buada Lagoon to historic phosphate mines and vibrant local villages, this Pacific treasure offers a diverse blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, these 10 must-see attractions reveal why Nauru is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Top Places to Visit in Nauru: A Guide to the Island’s Natural Wonders and Historic Gems

Despite being the world’s third smallest country, Nauru is rich in natural beauty, wartime history, and cultural depth. Often bypassed by mainstream tourism, this tiny Pacific island offers an array of experiences for curious travelers looking to explore something truly off the beaten path.

Here’s a curated list of the top places to visit in Nauru, from tranquil lagoons to historic World War II sites.

🌊 1. Anibare Bay

📍 Location: East Nauru
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Open all year

Arguably Nauru’s most scenic location, Anibare Bay is a breathtaking stretch of coastline featuring white sand, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. Perfect for swimming, beachcombing, or snorkeling, it’s also popular among surfers, thanks to its strong waves and consistent swell.

Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best lighting and a peaceful atmosphere.

🗺️ 2. Command Ridge

📍 Location: Between Aiwo and Buada
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Daytime access

The highest point on the island, Command Ridge offers 360-degree views and a compelling look into Nauru’s wartime history. Once a key Japanese stronghold during World War II, the ridge is still home to rusting artillery, bunkers, and lookout towers.

Perfect for military history buffs and photographers alike.

🌿 3. Buada Lagoon

📍 Location: Buada District
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Open all year

An unexpected inland oasis, Buada Lagoon is surrounded by dense greenery and tropical flora. This peaceful freshwater lake contrasts beautifully with Nauru’s more rugged coastal landscape. Ideal for birdwatching, meditation, or a lazy afternoon picnic.

🕳️ 4. Moqua Caves & Moqua Well

📍 Location: Yaren District
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Daylight hours

Hidden beneath the surface, the Moqua Caves are a network of limestone formations leading to Moqua Well, a secretive underground lake. Used as a wartime water source, the site is now a quiet haven for adventurers and geology lovers.

Bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes for exploring.

🧱 5. Japanese Coastal Guns

📍 Location: Various (including near Command Ridge)
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Open year-round

Scattered across Nauru’s coastline, these rusting Japanese artillery guns stand as reminders of the island’s role in the Pacific theatre of WWII. Haunting and photogenic, they offer powerful insight into a turbulent period in island history.

⛰️ 6. Central Plateau (Topside)

📍 Location: Central Nauru
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Open all year

Once the heart of Nauru’s phosphate industry, the Central Plateau—often called Topside—is a surreal, almost lunar landscape of jagged limestone pinnacles. This site illustrates the environmental impact of decades of mining and the challenges of restoration.

A great stop for environmentalists and landscape photographers.

🏛️ 7. Parliament House

📍 Location: Yaren District
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Varies (based on parliamentary sessions)

While Nauru has no official capital, Parliament House in Yaren serves as the nation’s political hub. Visitors can observe the exterior and, depending on the schedule, attend public sessions or learn more about how the world’s smallest republic governs itself.

🖼️ 8. Nauru Museum

📍 Location: Aiwo District
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Though small, the Nauru Museum offers a rich display of cultural artifacts, wartime memorabilia, and insights into the island’s colonial and phosphate-mining eras. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the island’s past.

🎭 9. Civic Centre

📍 Location: Yaren
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Varies by event
🕒 Hours: Event-specific

The beating heart of local social life, the Civic Centre hosts everything from traditional dance performances to government ceremonies. For travelers, it’s a great place to connect with local culture and attend community events.

Check local notices or ask your hotel about upcoming shows or public events.

⚓ 10. Anibare Harbour

📍 Location: Anibare District
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free
🕒 Hours: Open year-round

At the southern tip of Anibare Bay lies Anibare Harbour, a hub of local fishing activity and community life. It’s the perfect place to see fishermen hauling in their catch, watch boats set out to sea, and enjoy the sea breeze. You might even snag a boat ride with a friendly local.

🌺 Final Thoughts

Nauru may be tiny, but its natural beauty, unique history, and genuine hospitality make it a destination like no other. Whether you’re wandering ancient military outposts, relaxing by a hidden lagoon, or connecting with locals at the Civic Centre, every corner of this island offers a story.

If you’re planning a trip to Nauru, be sure to pack your sense of adventure—and maybe a snorkel. 🌴

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10 Must-See Attractions on Nauru Island: Discover This Pacific Treasure