Micronesia Day Trips: Top 5 Island Adventures

The Federated States of Micronesia, sometimes shortened to FSM, is actually a captivating collection of islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean, and it’s truly a place that could be easily called paradise. Think white sands, sparkling waters, and a culture as rich as the soil. So, if you find you are planning a visit, it is almost a place where a day trip can turn into an lifetime memory. I want to help guide you to some unbelievable spots that you should check out.

1. Nan Madol: The Ancient Ruins of Pohnpei

So, if you like history and mystery, Nan Madol is really going to be your thing. I mean, the place is nicknamed the “Venice of the Pacific” and it is actually these old ruins that sit on top of human-made islands. I’d say that’s fairly special. You see, the story is these ruins were the heart of the Saudeleur Dynasty, which ruled Pohnpei way back when. It’s a complex of walls, homes, and temples, and it really shows what these people could do so many years ago.

Walking among the ruins is like going back in time. It is really awesome, actually. And so much is unknown too it’s almost mind-boggling. What you should really plan for is a guided tour; that is just your best bet for knowing what you’re looking at, with so many questions still unanswered. It also provides respect for what came before. Then make sure you get those walking shoes because the area you can go is big, yet the ground can be a bit bumpy, just a bit. But, you will be on the shores of Pohnpei so there are many places to go and experience after the tour. Read our full review: Nan Madol Pohnpei Ruins Full Review and Details

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2. Kepirohi Waterfall and Pohnpei Rainforest

That if you’re all about natural beauty, then this trip is calling your name, actually. Kepirohi Waterfall is quite a sight – a forceful cascade amidst the rainforest, so that should get you started. The pool at the bottom? That’s just paradise so just slip right in. A tip, too, it’s almost like a fairytale that the water is so cool.

So, what should you plan for the adventure? Well, plan to hike. And it’s not a brutal one, really. But just have shoes that have some grips to them, and I would recommend bringing bug spray. Seriously, the mosquitos do find tourists, by the way. Pack a snack for when you get there, there is nothing that takes away the beauty of nature than some hunger cravings. After, venture more into the rain forest and Pohnpei has many locations, many right on the ocean. That to be truthful can be the best kind. Read our full review: Kepirohi Waterfall Pohnpei Rainforest Full Review and Details

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3. Lelu Ruins in Kosrae

Another interesting area for some more ruins are in Kosrae, the Lelu Ruins. Lelu was once this important city. It is the kind of old metropolis, that’s often, somewhat lost, but still there. These buildings are crafted of basalt logs and they rise skyward, to give a peek into life in the 14th century. That said, there is just a lot to still wonder about the place, you will see the comparisons to Nan Madol rather quickly, yet with less popularity and information on the topic, really, really fueling a journey of your imagination.

Lelu might be more compact than Nan Madol, that the trip there is still like a walk back in time. What should you look at? Well, old royal homes, graveyards, and these sacred spots, they speak so much. Plus the jungle is overtaking it to be almost like some old movie. Just keep in mind that it may get super hot, just keep that in mind if you plan your travels for the day. Also, if you get to talking to a local about this area, that just may become the best part of the trip! Read our full review: Lelu Ruins Kosrae Full Review and Details

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4. Chuuk Lagoon: A Scuba Diving Paradise

So, Chuuk Lagoon is actually this site of the World War II battle that ended up being somewhat of a huge graveyard of ships and planes, basically. It became almost this odd underwater museum for any certified diver. I mean, really! You can explore all of this ocean equipment, right then and there. As the equipment decays, a diverse number of wildlife and coral takes it over.

For divers, Chuuk Lagoon is something of a once in a lifetime type of chance. Keep in mind that visibility in the lagoon, sometimes it depends on weather. I want to just make sure you understand to bring a flashlight that works, to be totally honest. Also, you will likely need a specialized local guide. That is actually how deep the knowledge base goes for diving this water, really. Read our full review: Chuuk Lagoon Scuba Diving Full Review and Details

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5. Yap’s Culture and Stone Money Banks

You really should hop on over to Yap. What is so interesting, is the place where the culture is so very rich that it is pretty distinct from the other states, actually. That they have managed to protect themselves, in a way, from the future that their own traditional ways of life have actually been passed down to recent generations. They still respect these older beliefs, too. One of the more fun things to observe is their stone money. Just massive stone disks are lined up for you to look at when you come.

Get out to the villages so that you will have this experience where you can learn more about the people. The dances? Very engaging. They love teaching too it’s almost like your there for educational tourism and they take the part seriously. You are going to be on an island with different customs than back home, or even other parts of the FSM so the culture experience will be rewarding. So, if you wish, get to diving! And while not a place of sunken planes, it’s beauty that the Yap waters showcase are almost unmatched. Read our full review: Yap Culture Stone Money Full Review and Details

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