Things to Do in Micronesia

About Micronesia

Micronesia spreads over 600 coral islands across the Pacific, and most travelers have never heard of it. Time here follows the waves and wind. Nothing else matters much. The lagoons are clear enough to see 100 feet down to pristine coral reefs and World War II wrecks that fish now call home. Rainbow parrotfish swim through sunken ships turned artificial reefs. Ancient navigators crossed open ocean using only stars, and their descendants still remember how. Each atoll is different. Chuuk has some of the world's best wreck diving. Pohnpei has Nan Madol—stone ruins built on artificial islands, impressive and genuinely mysterious. People call it the Venice of the Pacific, though that comparison doesn't quite work. Locals are warm without being performative about it. They share their culture because they're proud of it, not because you paid an entrance fee. This is where you go when you can't handle another crowded beach or resort designed for Instagram.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book inter-island flights with United Airlines well in advance, as schedules change frequently and seats are limited. Island hopping requires patience—flights may be delayed or cancelled due to weather. Consider purchasing a multi-island pass if visiting multiple states.

Money: US dollars are the official currency. Bring cash as ATMs are scarce outside main towns, and credit cards are rarely accepted. Small denominations are preferred for local purchases and tipping at guesthouses.

Cultural Respect: Always ask permission before photographing people or entering villages. Remove shoes when entering homes and cover shoulders/knees in public areas. Avoid pointing with your finger—use an open hand gesture instead.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in remote areas. Fresh seafood and local fruits are generally safe. Try traditional dishes like breadfruit, taro, and fresh coconut water, but avoid raw fish unless at reputable establishments.

When to Visit

Micronesia enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures averaging 80-86°F (27-30°C), making any time suitable for travel. The dry season (December-April) offers the best conditions with minimal rainfall (2-4 inches monthly), calm seas perfect for diving, and gentle trade winds. This peak period sees 30-40% higher accommodation rates and requires advance booking. The wet season (May-November) brings heavier rainfall (8-15 inches monthly) and occasional typhoons, particularly August-October, but offers 20-30% savings on hotels and fewer crowds. Water temperatures remain ideal for diving year-round at 82-84°F (28-29°C). Key festivals include Yap Day (March 1st) celebrating traditional culture, Constitution Day (May 10th) across all states, and Liberation Day (September 11th) in Chuuk. Diving ensoiasts should visit December-April for optimal visibility and calmer conditions. Budget travelers benefit from May-July's lower prices while avoiding peak storm season. Cultural ensoiasts should time visits around local festivals when traditional dancing, crafts, and ceremonies are showcased. Photographers will find the dry season ideal for clear skies and lively reef photography, while the wet season offers dramatic cloud formations and lush tropical landscapes.