Best things to do in Nauru

• Capital: Yaren
• Language(s): English, Nauruan
• Currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
• Dial Code: + 674

Travel Guide to Nauru: The Tiny Island with a Big Story

Looking for a destination that hardly anyone has been to, yet is packed with history, quirky facts, and a serious dose of tropical charm? Then say hello to Nauru — the third smallest country in the world and the tiniest island nation you’ve probably never heard of. This travel guide to Nauru is here to change that.

Located in the middle of the South Pacific, Nauru might be small (just 21 square kilometers!), but it offers a fascinating mix of history, resilience, and raw beauty. If you’re the kind of traveler who collects rare passport stamps and unforgettable stories, Nauru deserves a top spot on your list.

Where Is Nauru?

Nauru is a remote island nation in Micronesia, about 300 kilometers west of Banaba Island in Kiribati. It's a speck in the Pacific, but it has an outsize personality. Once known as Pleasant Island (a bit of 19th-century marketing genius), Nauru is now more famous for being one of the least visited countries on Earth — which, let's be honest, makes it instantly cooler.

With just over 9,000 residents, Nauru is only more populated than the Vatican. And yes, you can drive around the entire country in under an hour. Talk about a compact sightseeing adventure.

A Brief History with Big Twists

Before we jump into the top attractions and things to do in Nauru, let’s talk about its wild backstory. Settled by Micronesian and Polynesian peoples, Nauru’s colonial era began when Germany claimed it in the late 1800s. After World War I, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK shared the island as a mandate. Then came Japanese occupation during World War II, followed by independence in 1968.

Here’s where it gets interesting: Nauru sat on an enormous reserve of phosphate, a mineral used in fertilizer. That made the tiny island rich — really rich. For a brief moment in the late 1960s and early '70s, it had the highest per capita income in the world. Imagine that: private jets, lavish spending, and no income taxes — all on a tiny rock in the sea.

But when the phosphate ran out and environmental damage took its toll, the money dried up. Nauru even tried becoming a tax haven and a money-laundering hub for a while. It didn’t end well. In the 2000s, it gained headlines again when it agreed to host an Australian offshore detention center in exchange for financial aid.

And yet, through all the ups and downs, Nauru remains — standing proud, sun-soaked, and smiling.

Things to Do in Nauru

Now let’s get to the fun part: what to do in Nauru once you get there. Spoiler: this isn’t a place with massive theme parks or bustling cities. It’s raw, real, and refreshingly simple. Here are the best things to do and places to visit in Nauru:

Explore the Island Ring Road

Want a full-country road trip? Hop on a scooter or grab a bike and circle the island on the 19-kilometer Ring Road. You'll pass beaches, old phosphate mines, and colorful homes. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the island’s vibe and maybe meet a few friendly locals.

Visit Command Ridge

One of the top attractions in Nauru, Command Ridge is the highest point on the island (just 65 meters high, but who’s counting?). Here you’ll find rusted Japanese World War II relics, including bunkers and communication equipment. It’s a must-see for history buffs and offers one of the island’s best photo ops.

Check Out Anibare Bay

Need a postcard-perfect beach? Anibare Bay is the place to be. This wide, sandy stretch of coastline is ideal for swimming and relaxing — though the current can be strong, so caution is a must. The volcanic rock formations and palm trees complete the tropical paradise scene.

See the Phosphate Mines and Buada Lagoon

Nauru's interior is dominated by the ghostly remains of its phosphate mining past. It’s not exactly pretty, but it’s fascinating. The jagged landscape tells the story of a nation that once struck it rich. Nearby, Buada Lagoon, a freshwater lake surrounded by palm trees, offers a more serene, green contrast.

Visit the Civic Center and Parliament House

If you’re into political tourism (it’s a thing!), check out the Parliament House in Yaren District. It’s modest but historic. Nearby, you’ll find the Civic Center, where national events are held and flags wave proudly in the tropical breeze.

Go Bird Watching

Nauru is home to several native bird species, and while it may not be a full-on birding destination, the chance to spot a Nauru Reed Warbler or noddies flying along the cliffs is a treat for nature lovers.

Sightseeing and Cultural Experiences

While Nauru doesn’t have a long list of museums or tour operators, the sightseeing is all about the little things: watching kids play cricket at sunset, chatting with locals, or exploring ruins at your own pace. The culture is a blend of Micronesian roots and colonial influences, with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.

Festivals and ceremonies happen occasionally, but don’t expect a calendar full of tourist events — your best cultural moments will be spontaneous.

Travel Tips for Visiting Nauru

Planning a trip to Nauru? Here’s what you need to know before you go:

• Getting There: Nauru International Airport is the country’s only air gateway. Flights are limited and usually come from Brisbane, Fiji, or other Pacific nations. Book early.

• Transport: Rent a car, bike, or just walk. You can explore most of the island in a single day.

• Money: The Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency.

• Accommodation: Choices are limited — expect basic hotels and guesthouses. Make reservations in advance.

• Connectivity: Internet can be slow and patchy. Bring a book and enjoy the digital detox.

Why You Should Visit Nauru

If you’re hunting for a destination that breaks all the tourist molds, Nauru is the one. It’s not about luxury resorts or packed itineraries — it’s about raw landscapes, surprising stories, and saying, “Yes, I’ve been there” when most people haven’t even heard of it.

In a world of over-tourism and selfie sticks, Nauru is refreshingly offbeat. It offers a different kind of richness: solitude, simplicity, and soul.

So pack your curiosity, book that flight, and get ready to explore one of the most unusual places to visit on the planet. Your ultimate bragging rights await.