Wake Island Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Wake Island with our detailed guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food, culture, safety, transportation options & more.


Discover Wake Island: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Looking for a unique travel adventure? Wake Island is a stunning destination located in Micronesia, Oceania. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery, Wake Island has something to offer to everyone. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Wake Island, with tips on the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, transportation options, culture, safety, and more.

Introduction to Wake Island

Wake Island is a coral atoll located in the western Pacific Ocean, with a total area of 2.5 sq miles. Its stunning natural beauty and rich history make it a popular destination among tourists. The island was used as a strategic military base during World War II, and some remnants of the past still remain visible today.

List of Places to Visit in Wake Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Wake Island Airfield - Visit the famous airfield which played a critical role in WWII.

  2. The Bunker Museum - A fascinating museum that showcases the island’s past and houses rare photographs, relics, and artifacts from the war.

Natural Attractions of Wake Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Wake Island Beaches - Wake Island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters that offer swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

  2. Nature Trails - Wake Island boasts beautiful nature trails that offer stunning scenic views of the island’s flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wake Island

  1. The Lagoon Trail - A gorgeous 3-mile long hiking trail that takes you along the stunning lagoon of the island.

  2. The Conservation Trail - A beautiful hiking/biking trail that takes you through the island’s conservation areas, with stunning views of the natural flora and fauna of the island.

Best Things to Do in Wake Island: Activities and Tours

  1. Water Sports - Wake Island is a paradise for water sports lovers, with options like surfing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

  2. Island Tours - Take a guided tour of the island’s top attractions and learn about the island’s rich history and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wake Island

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive at Wake Island
Day 2 Explore the Bunker Museum, and the WWII relics.
Day 3 Take a surf lesson or enjoy some snorkeling at the beaches.
Day 4 Hike the Lagoon Trail and enjoy the scenic views and sunset.
Day 5 Go on an island tour and visit all the top attractions.
Day 6 Enjoy water sports: kayaking, paddleboarding or scuba diving.
Day 7 Relax, and enjoy authentic local food and drinks before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Wake Island

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Coconut Crab - A local delicacy, it is a must-try dish for seafood lovers.

  2. Pork Ribs - The island is known for its delicious pork ribs cooked in a unique and delicious style.

Local Beverages

  1. Fresh Coconut Water - Found throughout the island, it’s a refreshing tropical drink perfect for hot days.

  2. Island Beer - Brewed locally, it’s a refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with the island’s cuisine.

Where to Stay in Wake Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Wake Island Motel - If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Wake Island Motel is the perfect choice.

  2. Wake Island Airfield Guest House - For a more comfortable stay, this is a great option with beautiful gardens and an excellent location.

What to Buy in Wake Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take back home a piece of the island with unique souvenirs such as local handicrafts, shell jewelry, and clothes or local produce such as coconut oil and coffee.

Local Culture and Customs of Wake Island

Wake Island has a rich culture that is deeply rooted in tradition and respect. Native islanders, who come from a mix of Micronesian and Polynesian ancestry, are very welcoming to tourists and are proud to share their traditions and local customs. Visitors to the island should show respect for the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit Wake Island

The best time to visit Wake Island is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. The water is also calm and clear, making it perfect for water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wake Island

Do:

  1. Respect local culture, customs, and traditions.

  2. Be mindful of the environment. Avoid littering and protect the unique ecosystem of the island.

Don’t:

  1. Take pictures of locals without their permission.

  2. Touch or remove any historical or cultural artifacts from the island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wake Island

The island is relatively safe for tourists. However, visitors should be cautious when swimming or participating in water sports, as strong currents and rough seas can occur.

Health in Wake Island

Visitors should have updated vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, as well as typhoid fever. It’s also recommended to bring insect repellent for protection against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria.

Getting to Wake Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wake Island

  1. Wake Island Airport - This is a small airport with limited flights. Only charter flights are available to and from the mainland.

How to Get Around in Wake Island

The best way to get around is by renting a car, as there is no public transportation available on the island. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or ask your hotel to arrange a tour.

Where to Go Next from Wake Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Palau - Palau is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich marine life. Located a short flight away, it’s a great next stop for nature lovers.

  2. Guam - Guam boasts beautiful beaches, rich history and culture, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to experience more of the Pacific Islands.

Conclusion

Wake Island is an unforgettable destination that offers stunning beaches, rich history, and culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. Plan your trip to this unique island and experience a true tropical paradise.

The Wake Island atoll from the northeast, in 1941 The Wake Island atoll from the northeast, in 1941 Wake's beautiful shark-free lagoon Wake's beautiful shark-free lagoon