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Rongelap Atoll
The land area of Rongelap Atoll consists of 61 islets with a combined area of approximately 3 square miles. The
lagoon covers 388 square miles.
Rongelap Atoll and the surrounding islands have been uninhabited for many years and is now home to possibly the
most pristine waters in the world. The shallow reefs and deep ocean of the atolls teem with underwater life that
promises great adventure for fishing and diving enthusiasts from around the world. The people of Rongelap are building
their new community and with it an adventure in scuba diving, sport fishing and Eco-tourism that will contribute
to their future.
Visitors can now enjoy the perfect spot for scuba diving, sport fishing, bird watching and enjoying tropical island
living in one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific.
The pristine waters and beaches of Rongelap Atoll are open to visitors for the first time in over 20 years. The
remote islands of Likiep and Jaluit are now within reach. The undiscovered reefs of Majuro are at your fingertips.
Bikini Atoll
Today, while the people of Bikini have yet to resettle their homeland, the island is populated by Bikini Atoll
Divers employees (some of whom are Bikinians), Bikini Project Department construction workers, and some U.S. Department
of Energy staff. There is, however, a large population of Bikinians living elsewhere in the Marshall Islands and
overseas who hope to have the ability to return to their homeland someday soon.
In 1996 the people of Bikini opened their atoll to the outside world as a dive, sport fishing and tourism destination,
and has since drawn praise from many around the globe. When you visit Bikini, it has been said that you don't just
dive, fish or sunbathe, you get a history lesson for the ages.
Conde Nast Traveler Magazine, in their July 2000 issue, declared Bikini Atoll as one of the "Top 50 Worldwide
Island Escapes". It has also been proclaimed as one of the 10 best scuba diving destinations and one of the
best sportfishing destinations worldwide.
Majuro
Majuro, population 25,400 (as of 2004), is sometimes mentioned as the capital of the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
The DLD communities or Dalap-Uliga-Darrit, located at the east point of the Majuro Atoll are the capital of the
Marshall Islands. Built on an atoll of 64 islands, the Majuro Atoll, Majuro has a port and an international airport.
The College of the Marshall Islands is at the east end of the atoll.
The atoll itself has a land area of only 3.75 sq mi (9.7 km²), but encloses a lagoon of 113.92 sq mi (295
km²).
The main industries on the atoll are fishing and copra (dried coconuts) and a growing tourism industry. Diving
and snorkeling are touted to be some of the best in the region with numerous underwater relics from World War II.
Laura Beach Park at the western end of the island has clean, clear water with a strong current and beautiful views
of surrounding islands.
The drive to the western end of the island offers serene scenery with numerous spots to stop and walk along the
water's edge.
The eastern drive offers a view of the bustling port area and various shops.
Renting a car or going by taxi appears to be the best way to get around. A taxi ride should cost between 50 cents
and $3.
There are several interesting bars and shops just off the main street and it is well worth the time just to get
out and walk around to experience the local ambiance. The craft shops in the area offer intricately hand-woven
baskets, purses and mats made out of pandanus and coconut. There is a good selection of accommodations on Majuro.
Day trips can be made to the other islands, such as Anemanet, that surround the lagoon, for a picnic, snorkeling
and diving. Fishing charters are offered and anglers can try their luck at catching blue marlin, yellowfin tuna,
skipjack, mahimahi, wahoo, baracuda and other reef fish.
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