Things To Do
in Kolonia
Kolonia sits on the northwest coast of Pohnpei Island, in the Federated States of Micronesia, and serves as the archipelago’s administrative hub. It blends a laid-back town atmosphere with lush jungle, a dramatic coastline, and abundant marine life just offshore. The area is a gateway to ancient sites like Nan Madol and vibrant coral reefs, all set against a backdrop of friendly local hospitality.
Visitors come for hiking, snorkeling, markets, and a slow, authentic Micronesian experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Kolonia Town Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture while sampling fresh tropical fruits. Engage with friendly vendors as you browse an array of handmade crafts and local produce. Enjoy the stunning views of the lagoon as you stroll through the streets, soaking in the island's charm.
After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the scenic waterfront, dotted with palm trees and colorful fishing boats. Visit the Pohnpei Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the Federated States of Micronesia. Conclude the afternoon with a dip in the lagoon, where you can relax on the beach.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor traditional Pohnpeian dishes like laulau or fresh seafood. Enjoy the warm island breeze while watching the traditional dances that often take place at night. Wrap up your evening by stargazing on the beach, enchanted by the vastness of the Pacific sky.
Embark on a guided tour to the ancient ruins of Nan Madol, known as the 'Venice of the Pacific.' Wander through the remarkable stone structures built on a series of islets, taking in the impressive craftsmanship of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Capture stunning photographs as you explore the mystical landscape surrounded by lush greenery and turquoise waters.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds, surrounded by the serene beauty of the ruins. Take time to absorb the spiritual atmosphere, learning about the legends and history that shroud this archaeological wonder. Spend the afternoon kayaking through the canals to view Nan Madol from a unique perspective.
Return to Kolonia Town and indulge in a dinner featuring local delicacies at a waterfront restaurant. Listen to live music or cultural performances that highlight the rich traditions of the island. End your day with a peaceful evening walk along the shoreline, under the glowing moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍜Mid-range dinner for two | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
| 🚗Taxi within town | $3-15 |
| 🏝️Island tour / snorkeling trip | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and a relaxed island vibe
- Rich access to Nan Madol and superb diving/snorkeling nearby
- Limited infrastructure and slower pace can be challenging for some travelers
- Occasional long travel times and limited medical facilities outside key towns
- "Iakwe" - Hello
- "Kaselehlia" - Thank you
- "Meh di" - Please
- "Kahmw, where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "I bien kom" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Kolonia
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light along the harbor with boats, palm silhouettes, and the coastline; a relaxed setting for silhouettes and wide-angle shots.
Dramatic offshore ruins framed by turquoise water; best captured with a boat or shoreline vantage point during late afternoon.
Lush rainforest backdrop, cascading water, and natural pools ideal for waterfall photography and portrait shots.
Quiet beaches and tidal channels provide atmospheric reflection shots and wildlife photography opportunities.
Food in Kolonia
Kolonia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A prized local delicacy when available; typically prepared steamed or boiled, with dipping sauces and a generous drizzle of coconut milk.
Must-Try!
Taro or breadfruit leaves wrapped around coconut milk and onions, then baked; a creamy, savory cornerstone of Micronesian cooking.
Freshly caught fish seasoned with lime, coconut milk, and herbs, often served with rice or breadfruit.
Citrus-acid cured fish with onions, peppers, and herbs; a bright, coastal starter or light lunch option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main local market where you can buy tropical fruit, root vegetables, coconuts, and ready-to-eat snacks from friendly stalls.
Casual street-food setups along the harbor offering fried fish, cassava chips, grilled skewers, and fresh coconuts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting goes a long way. Dress modestly in public spaces, and ask permission before taking photos of people or private homes.
Remove shoes when entering some homes or traditional spaces; bring a small token (snacks or fruit) if visiting a local household.
Always ask before photographing people, especially elders or children, and respect local customs at religious or community sites.
Safety
Tipping in Kolonia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up the bill or leave a small gratuity for good service, particularly with tour guides and in nicer restaurants.
US dollars are widely used; cash is essential in markets and small eateries. Credit cards may be accepted at larger establishments, but ATMs can be limited outside main towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny and pleasantly warm with lower rainfall; ideal for outdoor activities, beach time, and boat trips, though seas can be a bit choppier on exposed coastlines.
Characterized by higher humidity and more frequent showers; good for waterfalls and lush landscapes, but plan for possible cloud cover and rougher seas at times.
Kolonia at Night
Hiking in Kolonia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short-to-moderate hike through rainforest leading to a cascading waterfall with natural pools for a refreshing dip.
Gentle to moderate trails along the coast and through mangroves, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Airports
How to reach Kolonia by plane.
Main international-style airport serving Kolonia; flights connect mainly to Guam, Koror, Honolulu, and within Micronesia; taxis or rental cars provide quick transfer to Kolonia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest local group with a distinct language and rich cultural traditions; many residents live in Kolonia or nearby villages.
Smaller but significant communities from other FSM states, contributing to cultural diversity and regional connections.
A mix of travelers, researchers, and workers from across the Pacific and beyond, adding to the town’s cosmopolitan feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular organized sport with local leagues and pickup games on community courts.
Common among youths and adults; casual matches and community events occur near schools and parks.
Inshore and boat fishing are popular activities for locals and visitors seeking fresh seafood.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kolonia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh fruits, rice, breadfruit, taro, and vegetable-based curries. Request dishes without fish sauce or shellfish, and consider asking for coconut milk-based curries or tomato-based sauces to complement vegetables.