Nauru is a tiny remote island nation located in the Pacific Ocean. With only 10,000 inhabitants, it is one of the least visited countries in the world. But those who make the trek to Nauru will be rewarded with some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the Pacific. If you are looking to get off the beaten path and discover untouched tropical beaches, then Nauru should be at the top of your list. Keep reading to learn more about Nauru’s stunning shores and why you should visit this hidden gem now before the crowds discover it.
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Nauru’s Remote Location
Nauru is an oval-shaped island located in Micronesia in the South Pacific Ocean. It sits just south of the equator and is located around 1,800 miles northeast of Papua New Guinea. The nearest neighbor is Banaba Island, about 150 miles to the east.
Due to its isolated location, Nauru has remained off the radar of most travelers. There are no direct flights, so getting there requires flying to Fiji or the Solomon Islands first before catching a charter plane. This remoteness is part of the reason Nauru’s beaches have remained so pristine and untouched. But it also means you’ll need to really want to visit Nauru to make the effort.
Those who do make the journey to this remote Pacific island will be rewarded with the chance to experience Nauru like few outsiders get to see. The beaches are nearly empty, and the island has an authentic local culture not influenced by mass tourism.
Nauru’s Natural Beauty
Nauru’s beaches have majestic natural beauty you won’t find anywhere else. With hardly any development along the coastline, the beaches are lined with swaying palms and lapped by crystal clear blue waters. The sun-bleached sandy shores seem to stretch on forever.
Outside the bright turquoise lagoons, there are stunning coral reefs that make for excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. On land, the lush interior of Nauru rises up to a plateau with tropical vegetation. With such a small population, almost the entire island is unspoiled.
Some standout beaches in Nauru include Aniga, Denigomodu, Anabar and Ijuw. But almost any stretch of shoreline you come across will take your breath away. There are scenic coastal roads you can drive along to beach hop and discover your own private piece of paradise.
Aniga Beach
Aniga Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Nauru, located on the island’s southern coast. It is a perfectly picturesque white sand beach framed by swaying palms. The sea here is a magnificent turquoise color.
During the day, you might find a few locals enjoying a swim. But otherwise, you’ll likely have the beach entirely to yourself. The protected waters make Aniga beach ideal for swimming and snorkeling over the offshore coral gardens.
Aniga is accessible by road or via a walking trail along the cliffs from Ijuw District. Bring along a picnic lunch to enjoy on the soft white sands before taking a dip in the refreshing waters.
Denigomodu Beach
On Nauru’s western coast is Denigomodu Beach, another stunning locale. This beautiful white sand beach is lined by dense palm forests that lead to crystal clear blue lagoons.
One of the best features of Denigomodu is that it is very secluded. Because there are no roads, you need to take a boat or hike along the coast to reach it. This means you might find yourself as the only person there.
Denigomodu is an excellent place for swimming, snorkeling, beachcombing and sunbathing. Pack a lunch and drinks and make a day out of enjoying this untouched tropical beach. Bring snorkeling gear to explore the excellent coral reef located just offshore.
Activities on the Beaches
With over 20 km of coastline, Nauru’s beaches offer plenty of room to find the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite activities. Here are some top things to do:
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Snorkeling and Scuba Diving – The crystal clear waters provide visibility up to 40 meters. See the impressive coral and abundant marine life.
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Swimming and Sunbathing – With temperatures in the 80s year-round, enjoy frolicking in the warm sea and lounging on the soft sand.
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Beachcombing – Keep an eye out for rare shells and glass floats washing up on the shores. Early mornings are best.
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Picnicking – Pack food and drinks and dine on fresh seafood while overlooking the scenic views.
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Water Sports – Try surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and more with gear rented from local outfitters.
With so many empty beaches, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to enjoy whichever activities you prefer.
Staying on Nauru
Given its small population, accommodation options on Nauru are quite limited. There are just a handful of guest houses and basic hotels. Homestays with local families are another choice that let you experience Nauru culture.
Some of the hotels include OD-N-Aiwo Hotel, Menen Hotel and Anibare Bay Hotel. Amenities are modest, so keep an open mind. There are also a few campgrounds if you want to pitch a tent and sleep under the stars.
With minimal tourism, it helps to book accommodations well in advance. There’s no bustling resort town, so come prepared whether staying in a hotel or camping. Bring books, games and snacks to enjoy during quiet evenings on the island.
Travel Tips
To visit Nauru, all visitors must obtain a tourist visa beforehand. Applications can be done online. Only 200-300 visas are issued each year, so apply well in advance.
There is an airport in Nauru, but flights are limited. Most visitors fly into Fiji or the Solomon Islands first before getting a charter plane to Nauru. Using a Pacific Island travel specialist can help plan the logistics.
Since Nauru is so remote, bring all essentials with you like sunscreen, medication, bug spray etc. There are a few local shops, but supplies are minimal. Renting a car is also recommended to explore on your own.
Why Visit Now
At the moment, Nauru receives very few tourists each year. This means its beaches remain largely untouched and unspoiled. However, it’s possible this won’t always be the case.
As more travelers search out new destinations beyond the usual hotspots, Nauru is likely to receive more attention. Visiting now provides the chance to experience the island before larger crowds change the landscape.
Nauru’s government also seems interested in expanding tourism. New accommodations are slowly being added, and they may begin marketing more to foreign visitors.
While increased tourism could bring more flights and amenities, it could also negatively impact Nauru’s fragile environment. So now is the ideal time to visit this hidden gem and see its pristine beaches before they are potentially changed forever.
Conclusion
Nauru remains one of the most off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Pacific. But for the intrepid traveler, its beautiful beaches are an incredible reward worth the journey. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise frozen in time.
Between the sweeping white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs, Nauru has natural beauty to rival any tropical locale. Take the chance now to have these breathtaking beaches all to yourself. Sleep in a tent under swaying palms, swim with sea turtles and explore secluded lagoons.
With five-star scenery and no crowds, Nauru is a once-in-a-lifetime beach getaway. Visit this hidden gem before the secret gets out!
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Nauru?
The best time is during the dry season from May to October when skies are clear. Rainshowers are frequent the rest of the year.
How do you get around Nauru?
Renting a car is recommended as there is minimal public transport. Drivers need a Nauru driving permit available from the police station.
What language do they speak in Nauru?
Nauruan is the official language, but English is also widely spoken. Some locals also speak Nauruan Creole.
Do I need any vaccines to visit Nauru?
No vaccinations are required except for yellow fever if coming from an infected area. Malaria medication is recommended.
What currency does Nauru use?
The official currency is the Australian dollar. Limited foreign exchange is available on Nauru, so bring adequate cash.