Marshall Islands: Canoes, Handicrafts and Water Sports

The Marshall Islands bring together Marshallese canoes and handicrafts, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bikini Atoll, and experiences on the water. Flight connections may change; check connections for your travel dates. Cultural stops in Majuro, the Jaluit Atoll Conservation Area and water sports offer different ways to plan your trip. The main point of entry is Amata Kabua International Airport on Majuro Atoll.

Majuro: Canoes, Museum and Handicrafts

The Alele Museum in Majuro displays historical photographs, old Marshallese tools and traditional Marshallese clothing. Also in Majuro, the Waan Aelõñ in Majel Visitor Center presents Marshallese canoes and their history, and is open Monday to Friday during business hours.

The cultural stops offer different emphases: the museum focuses on visual and material records, while the visitor center focuses on canoes and their history. Marshallese handicrafts include handmade mats, woven fans, Kili bags and shell jewelry. Alongside canoe history, visitors can explore different forms of handmade crafts as topics in their own right.

Atolls Between History and Conservation

Bikini Atoll is an outstanding example of a site of nuclear testing. The UNESCO World Heritage site includes numerous military remains and characteristic landscape features both above and below water. The combination of remains and landscape offers a historical and scenic perspective on the atoll.

The Jaluit Atoll Conservation Area is a Ramsar site in the Marshall Islands; it was designated in 2004. Its protected-area status is a distinct point of interest alongside the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bikini Atoll, which is associated with nuclear testing.

At Bikini Atoll, you can dive at the wreck of the USS Saratoga. This particular wreck adds a diving dimension to the exploration of the remains on land. If you plan a dive there, check current offerings in advance.

Fishing, Surfing and Sailing

Fishing is possible year-round in the Marshall Islands. Mili and Ailinglaplap have particularly suitable waves for surfing. The two activities offer different planning options: fishing is possible year-round, while surfing is associated with two specific atolls.

The Outrigger Marshall Islands Cup features a sailing race across Majuro Lagoon in 19-foot Tipnol canoes. Unlike year-round fishing, the Cup takes place on specific event dates. Check the schedule if you are considering it as a reason for your trip.

Day trips to Arno offer a special change of pace. Their availability for your travel dates depends on transport and local operators. Treat the trip as a separate planning item and confirm availability before making it a fixed part of your stay.

Discover more destinations: Majuro Atoll, Arno Atoll, Cook Islands, Vanuatu, New Zealand, Tonga, Kiribati, Palau.

See the regional travel overview: Oceania.