Each of the Pacific Islands of Micronesia boast their own unique attractions. Chuuk is most famous for its world-class scuba diving spots, while the forests which flourish in Kosrae’s two major marine parks are among the most pristine in all of Micronesia. Pohnpei’s most stunning landmarks are the towering Sokehs Rock along with the ancient cities of Nan Madol and Lelu Island. Yap is best known for its gigantic stone money known as the Rai of Yap, which many villages still display in rows as a display of their wealth. The raised footpaths leading to many Yap villages are centuries old.

Fujikawa Maru

Exploring this sprawling Imperial Japanese Navy shipwreck ranks high on the bucket lists of scuba divers around the world. Several scuba diving magazines rank the Fujikawa Maru in Micronesia on their lists of the world’s top 10 wreck dives. First constructed in 1938, the Fujikawa Maru primarily served as a WWII armed aircraft transport ferry. The ship was struck several times during the war before finally submerging to its final resting place during the 1944 Operation Hailstone battle. This spectacular shipwreck also features a retrofitted six-inch Japanese bow gun and four disassembled fighter aircraft. Address: Truk Lagoon, Chuuk Phone: n/a Website: n/a

James Palsis Marine Park

Picnic huts with barbecues are the newest attractions at this marine park situated between the Kosrae villages of Tafunsak and Walung. Most of the nearly deserted beaches close to Walung are accessible only by boat or by hiking through challenging jungle trails where wild boar hunters roam. Once visitors arrive at the beaches, however, crystal clear waters filled with colorful coral reefs are their rewards. waft through. Toilet facilities and water are available. Address: Between Walung and Tafunsak, Kosrae Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Utwe-Walung Marine Park

Kosrae’s other major marine park in Micronesia is named after the villages it borders, Utwe and Walung. The tranquil canoe tour across the backwater mangrove channel linking the two villages is the most unforgettable activity offered in this park named the Pacific region’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2005. The park also boasts many smaller mangrove channels leading towards several smaller islets. Address: Between Walung and Utwe, Kosrae Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Pohndollap

Hikers must make a two-hour trek through breathtaking tropical forests filled with WWII relics before reaching the summit of Mount Sokehs, among the most outstanding natural landmarks in all of Micronesia. Pineapples, two Japanese WWII weapons, and Pohnpei’s most impressive view stand at the summit of this prominent cliff face. Pohndollap is best known as the site of the 1910 Sokehs Rebellion against the Germans who ruled Pohnpei at the time. The world-class surfing destination of Palikir Pass is just another breathtaking hike away. Address: Sokehs Island, Pohnpei Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Nan Madol

The 1,000-year old Saudeleur city of Nan Madol is often known as the “Venice of the Pacific” because of its intricate network of canals linking 100 artificial islets on Pohnpei’s southeast coast. Nan Madol’s temple and paths were built from gigantic basalt rock logs transported to the city by raft. Some of these wide basalt pillars stretch up to 26 feet above the ground. A full day is recommended to explore Nan Madol, whose eastern half was mainly used for religious ceremonies in Micronesia while most administrative business took place in the western half. Address: Southeast Pohnpei Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Lelu Island

A causeway connects Kosrae with this tiny island which once contained one of Micronesia’s biggest and most spectacular walled cities. Countless generations of Kosrae’s royal family and up to 6,000 other people lived behind Lelu’s walls between the time they were first constructed during the 13th and 14th centuries and when the city was abandoned after 19th century European contact. Thick tropical vegetation covers many of Lelu’s ancient homes and burial mounds, but several larger structures are still clearly visible. Address: Lelu Island, Kosrae Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Mount Finkol Hiking Trail

Each year, only a handful of hikers and climbers successfully reach the top of Kosrae’s highest peak. Mount Finkol stands more than 2,000-feet tall over one of the world’s rainiest regions. All hikers who attempt this challenging climb must be accompanied by guides and be prepared for sudden downpours. Banyan trees along the way and the fringing coral reef views at the summit are some of this area’s most spectacular scenery. Address: Mount Finkol, Kosrae Phone: n/a Website: n/a