Islas Marshall

1. What are the best places to visit in the Marshall Islands?
Majuro, the capital, offers the Alele Museum and Laura Beach for cultural and natural beauty. Kwajalein Atoll is known for its WWII history and diving, though access is restricted due to U.S. military presence. Bikini Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its shipwrecks and nuclear testing history, ideal for advanced divers. Arno Atoll provides pristine beaches and traditional village life, while Jaluit Atoll offers historical sites and lagoon kayaking.

2. Is it safe to travel to the Marshall Islands?
As of March 2025, the Marshall Islands are generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in areas like Majuro. Petty theft can occur, so secure valuables in crowded spots. Tropical cyclones are a risk from June to December, and sea level rise can cause flooding in low-lying areas. Tap water isn’t always safe—use bottled water. Some atolls, like Bikini, have residual radiation from past nuclear tests, so follow local guidance. Check travel advisories for updates.

3. Do I need a visa to visit the Marshall Islands?
U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for unlimited stays due to the Compact of Free Association. Citizens of the EU, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can visit visa-free for up to 30 days with a passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of onward travel, and accommodation details. Other nationalities may need a visa, obtainable through the Marshall Islands Immigration Office in Majuro or via embassies in places like Washington, D.C. Apply early, as processing can take time.

4. What is the best time to visit the Marshall Islands?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, with temperatures of 25°C–30°C (77°F–86°F) and lower humidity, ideal for diving and outdoor activities. The wet season (May to November) brings heavy rain and a higher cyclone risk, though it’s less crowded. February and March are particularly good for calm seas and diving visibility, especially around Bikini Atoll.

5. How do I get to the Marshall Islands?
Fly into Amata Kabua International Airport (MAJ) in Majuro via United Airlines from Honolulu, Hawaii (flights twice weekly, $600–$1,200 round trip) or Guam ($500–$1,000 round trip). Nauru Airlines also connects Majuro with Nauru and Kiribati. Domestic flights with Air Marshall Islands link Majuro to outer atolls like Kwajalein ($150–$300 one-way), but schedules are irregular. Book early, and confirm flights, as delays are common due to weather or maintenance.

6. What are traditional Marshallese foods to try?
Try bwiro, a fermented breadfruit paste often served with fish or coconut. Fresh seafood like tuna or reef fish is grilled or eaten raw with lime and coconut. Pandanus fruit and coconut are staples, often used in dishes like jekaka (coconut rice). For a snack, enjoy roasted breadfruit or coconut crab, a local delicacy. Meals are simple, reflecting the islands’ reliance on the ocean and local crops, and are often shared communally.

7. What are the best cultural experiences in the Marshall Islands?
Visit a traditional outrigger canoe-building workshop in Majuro to see Marshallese navigation skills. Attend a community event in a local maneaba (meeting house) for storytelling and dance performances. Explore WWII history on Kwajalein or Jaluit, with remnants like Japanese bunkers. Join a cultural tour in Arno Atoll to learn about mat-weaving and fishing traditions. In Majuro, the Alele Museum showcases Marshallese history, including nuclear testing impacts.

8. What are the best outdoor activities in the Marshall Islands?
Dive Bikini Atoll to explore WWII shipwrecks like the USS Saratoga, a bucket-list site for advanced divers. Snorkel in Arno Atoll’s lagoon to see vibrant coral and fish. Fish for tuna or marlin in the deep waters around Majuro. Kayak in Jaluit Atoll’s lagoon, or beachcomb on Laura Beach for shells and solitude. Kitesurfing is popular in Majuro during the trade wind season (December to April), with steady breezes.

9. What should I know about Marshallese culture before visiting?
Marshallese people are warm, often greeting with “Yokwe” (hello). English and Marshallese are the main languages, with English widely spoken in Majuro. Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees, especially in villages. Remove shoes before entering a maneaba and sit cross-legged during gatherings. Family and community are central, so expect communal activities. Tipping isn’t expected, but small gifts like food are appreciated. Respect local customs, like asking permission before taking photos, and be mindful of the nuclear testing legacy, a sensitive topic.

10. What are the accommodation options in the Marshall Islands?
In Majuro, options include hotels like the Marshall Islands Resort ($100–$150/night) with basic amenities and ocean views, or budget guesthouses like Hotel Robert Reimers ($60–$100/night). On outer atolls like Arno or Jaluit, homestays or small guesthouses ($30–$70/night) offer a cultural experience but expect minimal facilities—no hot water or Wi-Fi. Bikini Atoll has liveaboard dive boats ($3,000–$5,000/week) for divers. Book early, as options are limited, especially on outer islands.