Things to Do in Kolonia

Kolonia sits quietly on the eastern shore of Pohnpei, serving as both the capital of Pohnpei State and the de facto capital of the Federated States of Micronesia. This small Pacific town, home to roughly 6,000 people, feels more like an oversized village than a traditional capital city. The streets are lined with modest concrete buildings, family-run stores, and the occasional government office, all set against a backdrop of lush tropical hills that seem to press right up against the town's edges. What makes Kolonia genuinely interesting isn't its urban amenities - there aren't many - but rather its role as your gateway to some of the Pacific's most remarkable experiences. The town serves as the launching point for diving adventures at world-class sites, cultural encounters with traditional Micronesian life, and explorations of ancient stone cities hidden in the jungle. You'll find the pace refreshingly unhurried here, with locals who are genuinely welcoming to the relatively few visitors who make it this far into the Pacific.

The dining scene in Kolonia is modest but authentic, with local restaurants serving traditional Micronesian dishes alongside basic international options. You'll find excellent fresh fish prepared simply, often with local starches like breadfruit or taro. The Joy Restaurant and Village Restaurant are longtime favorites among both locals and visitors. Don't expect extensive menus or elaborate presentations - the appeal here is fresh ingredients prepared well. Local markets offer tropical fruits you might not encounter elsewhere, and several small cafes serve decent coffee. That said, dining options close early, and Sunday availability is particularly limited.

The dry season from December through April offers the most predictable weather, though 'dry' is relative in this tropical climate. Temperatures remain fairly constant year-round in the mid-80s°F, but rainfall patterns vary significantly. The wet season brings more dramatic afternoon storms and higher humidity, though mornings are often clear. For diving, visibility tends to be best during calmer dry season months. Keep in mind that this is typhoon territory, with the season typically running June through November, though direct hits on Pohnpei are relatively rare.