Famous Landmarks in Nauru
Nauru, a tiny island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean, is the third smallest country in the world, both by land area and population. Known for its phosphate mining history, Nauru is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but its unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance offer a compelling experience for the few adventurous travelers who visit. The island is encircled by a scenic coastline with coral reefs, pristine beaches, and a tropical climate. While tourism infrastructure is minimal, visitors can explore the island’s rich World War II history, indigenous culture, and natural landscapes.
Despite its small size, Nauru offers a variety of experiences, including hiking to its highest point, exploring World War II relics, and learning about the island’s phosphate mining industry, which once made Nauru one of the richest nations per capita. Below are the top 10 famous landmarks in Nauru that capture the essence of this unique island nation.
1. Command Ridge
Overview
Command Ridge is Nauru’s highest point at 71 meters above sea level and is historically significant due to its role during World War II. Japanese forces used this ridge as a key observation and communication point during their occupation of the island. Visitors can explore remnants of the war, including rusted artillery guns and Japanese bunkers. The ridge also offers a panoramic view of the island, giving visitors a sense of Nauru’s compact geography and its surrounding Pacific waters.
Location
- City: Located in the central part of Nauru.
- Coordinates: 0.517° S, 166.931° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): Located about 5 km from Command Ridge.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
War Relics: Command Ridge is dotted with World War II artifacts, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts interested in the island’s wartime past.
2. Anibare Bay
Overview
Anibare Bay is Nauru’s most scenic beach, offering a beautiful stretch of white sand bordered by crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the island. The bay is lined with coconut palm trees, and the area is relatively undeveloped, giving visitors a peaceful and pristine beach experience. The nearby Anibare Harbor is also a popular spot for locals and fishermen.
Location
- City: Anibare District
- Coordinates: 0.539° S, 166.933° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): About 3 km from Anibare Bay.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Snorkeling Opportunities: The coral reefs around Anibare Bay are home to a variety of marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling enthusiasts.
3. Moqua Caves and Moqua Well
Overview
The Moqua Caves are a fascinating underground cave system located near the southern end of Nauru. Inside the caves, visitors can find the Moqua Well, a freshwater underground lake that served as an important water source for Nauru’s inhabitants, particularly during times of drought. The caves and well are important features of Nauru’s natural landscape, and visitors can explore the limestone formations and cool waters inside the cave system.
Location
- City: Yaren District
- Coordinates: 0.550° S, 166.921° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): Located about 1 km from Moqua Caves.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Bring a Flashlight: The caves are dark inside, so visitors should bring a flashlight to explore the limestone formations and the serene underground well.
4. Japanese Prison and Pillbox Ruins
Overview
During World War II, Nauru was occupied by Japanese forces, and remnants of this period can be found across the island. The Japanese Prison and Pillbox Ruins are key landmarks from this era, offering a glimpse into the island’s wartime history. The pillboxes were small fortified structures used for defense, while the prison housed captured Allied soldiers and local resistance fighters. These sites are both historical and poignant, serving as reminders of the island’s wartime struggles.
Location
- City: Multiple locations around Nauru.
- Coordinates: Various across the island.
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): The ruins are spread around the island, with most within 5 km of the airport.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Historical Importance: These ruins are preserved as important markers of Nauru’s history during World War II, and visitors should be respectful while exploring the areas.
5. Buada Lagoon
Overview
Buada Lagoon is Nauru’s only natural freshwater lake, located in the middle of the island. Surrounded by dense tropical vegetation, the lagoon creates a tranquil and picturesque setting that contrasts with the island’s coastal landscape. While the water is not suitable for swimming, the lagoon is a popular spot for walking and birdwatching. Buada Lagoon provides a unique glimpse into the island’s interior, showcasing the tropical flora that thrives in this small oasis.
Location
- City: Buada District
- Coordinates: 0.527° S, 166.930° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): About 4 km from Buada Lagoon.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Tropical Vegetation: Buada Lagoon is surrounded by coconut palms, banana trees, and other tropical plants, making it a great spot for photography and nature walks.
6. Phosphate Mines
Overview
Nauru’s economy was once heavily reliant on phosphate mining, which has shaped much of the island’s landscape and history. Visitors can tour the remnants of Nauru’s phosphate mines, where the land has been dramatically transformed into coral pinnacles and limestone formations after decades of extraction. While much of the island’s interior is scarred by the mining industry, these sites offer a stark insight into the economic and environmental impact of Nauru’s phosphate boom and subsequent decline.
Location
- City: Aiwo District and other locations
- Coordinates: 0.523° S, 166.933° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): The phosphate mines are located about 2 km from the airport.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Environmental Awareness: While exploring the phosphate mines, visitors will see firsthand the environmental impact of mining and its effects on the island’s landscape.
7. Centenary Church
Overview
Centenary Church is one of the most important religious sites on the island, serving as the center for Christian worship in Nauru. Built to commemorate 100 years of Christianity on the island, this church is located in the Aiwo District and is a significant symbol of the island’s Christian heritage. The church’s architecture is modest yet charming, and it plays an important role in the spiritual life of the local community. Visitors are welcome to attend services and witness Nauruan faith and traditions.
Location
- City: Aiwo District
- Coordinates: 0.515° S, 166.920° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): About 3 km from Centenary Church.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Cultural Experience: Attending a service at Centenary Church offers an opportunity to experience local customs, faith, and the Nauruan community’s strong Christian traditions.
8. Yaren Bunker
Overview
The Yaren Bunker is another remnant of Nauru’s World War II history. This underground bunker, built by Japanese forces during their occupation of the island, served as a shelter and lookout point. It is located in Yaren, Nauru’s de facto capital, and provides visitors with a glimpse into the military strategies used during the war. The bunker is preserved as a historical site, and visitors can explore the underground structure to learn more about Nauru’s strategic role in the Pacific theater of World War II.
Location
- City: Yaren District
- Coordinates: 0.547° S, 166.920° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): Located about 1 km from Yaren Bunker.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Explore with Care: As this is a preserved war site, visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the fragile historical structures while exploring the bunker.
9. Parliament House
Overview
Nauru’s Parliament House, located in Yaren District, is the political heart of the island and home to the Nauruan government. The modern building represents Nauru’s democratic system, which was established after the island gained independence in 1968. While not as grand as other nations’ parliamentary buildings, it is a significant symbol of Nauru’s sovereignty and governance. Visitors can tour the building and learn about the island’s political history and its current governmental structure.
Location
- City: Yaren District
- Coordinates: 0.543° S, 166.919° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): About 1 km from Parliament House.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Civic Significance: Visiting Parliament House offers insight into Nauru’s political system and the island’s journey to becoming an independent republic.
10. Ewa District Cliffs
Overview
The Ewa District Cliffs are located on the northern side of Nauru and provide dramatic views of the island’s rugged coastline and the vast Pacific Ocean. The cliffs are a popular spot for photographers, offering stunning vistas and opportunities to observe the powerful waves crashing against the rocky shores. This natural landmark offers a peaceful retreat away from the island’s more populated areas and allows visitors to experience the raw beauty of Nauru’s coastal environment.
Location
- City: Ewa District
- Coordinates: 0.499° S, 166.945° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free.
Nearby Airports
- Nauru International Airport (INU): About 6 km from Ewa District Cliffs.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Nauru.
Special Attention
Cliff Safety: The cliffs can be steep and rugged, so visitors should exercise caution when walking near the edges, especially during high winds.
