Day 2 – Lagoon, Highest Point, Beach

On the second day, we had a late start with breakfast at Menen Hotel, and heading out for some hiking and beach time!

Buada Lagoon

A landlocked, slightly brackish, freshwater lake of Buada district occupies 9.4 acres with a depth of up to 2 meters after an extended rainfall. The lagoon is classified as an endorheic lake, meaning there is no outflow to other bodies of water such as oceans or rivers.

The Buada Lagoon is the biggest and only true lake in Nauru, holding one of the two fresh water reservoirs in the country.

Highest Point and WWII Tanks

The highest point on the island is Command Ridge reaching an elevation of 65 meters (213 feet). This limestone ridge served as a key Japanese communications center during World War II, leaving behind rusted artillery, bunkers, and remnants from the 1940s.

The area consists of rocky, pinnacled limestone terrain. A trail leads to the summit, which is a popular, relatively short, but unshaded hike. It offers panoramic views of the island, particularly suitable for early morning or late afternoon.

Although it can be accessed via a short hike through the hill, you are required to hire a guide located at the entrance of the Command Ridge. It costs A$20 for the guide.

Beaches of Nauru

Most of Nauru island has sharp limestone rocks emerging from the ocean bed hence not accessible for swimming. The only two beaches good for swimming are Anibare Beach close to Menen Hotel on the south of the island, and Ewa Beach on the northern tip.

We visited both these beaches after the hike to Commend Ridge.

We returned to the hotel after visiting these sights and grabbed dinner from a local restaurant next to the hotel, and called it a day!

Note: All values in USD, unless otherwise mentioned, are approximate and based on the exchange rate of USD 1 = AUD 1.50 at the time of publishing. Each cost is for one adult.
 

 
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