Things to Do in Ujae Atoll, Marshall Islands

Ujae Atoll is a remote coral atoll in the Marshall Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean approximately 340 miles northwest of Majuro. This pristine atoll consists of 15 small islets surrounding a beautiful lagoon, with only about 400 residents living primarily on the main island. Ujae represents one of the most untouched and authentic experiences in Micronesia, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Pacific island life largely unchanged by modern development. The atoll is renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs that make it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Traditional Marshallese culture thrives here, with locals still practicing ancient fishing techniques, canoe building, and handicraft making. The community maintains a subsistence lifestyle based on fishing, copra production, and small-scale agriculture, providing visitors with an authentic cultural immersion rarely found in more developed Pacific destinations.

Top Things to Do in Ujae Atoll

Lagoon Snorkeling and Diving

Explore the pristine coral reefs within Ujae's protected lagoon, home to an incredible diversity of tropical fish, sea turtles, and pristine hard and soft corals. The lagoon's calm, clear waters offer visibility often exceeding 100 feet, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced divers.

Booking Tip: Arrange snorkeling gear and boat trips through local guides for $30-50 per day. Best visibility is during morning hours, and always dive with a local guide familiar with currents and marine life patterns.

Traditional Canoe Building Workshop

Participate in or observe the ancient Marshallese art of outrigger canoe construction using traditional tools and techniques passed down through generations. Local craftsmen demonstrate the intricate process of selecting, shaping, and assembling these seaworthy vessels using coconut palm and other native materials.

Booking Tip: Contact community leaders in advance to arrange workshops, typically costing $20-40 per person. Best experienced during dry season months when woodworking conditions are optimal.

Copra Plantation Tour

Learn about the traditional coconut processing industry that forms the backbone of Ujae's economy. Visitors can participate in coconut harvesting, meat extraction, and the drying process that creates copra for export, while gaining insight into sustainable island agriculture.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local families for $15-25 per person, including traditional coconut-based refreshments. Early morning tours are most comfortable and productive.

Islet Hopping Adventure

Explore the 15 uninhabited islets surrounding Ujae's lagoon, each offering unique landscapes, bird watching opportunities, and pristine beaches. Some islets feature ancient burial sites and traditional fishing spots that provide insight into Marshallese history and culture.

Booking Tip: Charter local boats for $50-80 per day including guide and basic refreshments. Plan for full-day excursions and bring sun protection and plenty of water.

Traditional Fishing Expedition

Join local fishermen using traditional methods including handline fishing, net casting, and spear fishing in both lagoon and ocean waters. Learn about sustainable fishing practices, fish identification, and traditional navigation techniques while contributing to the community's daily food supply.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local fishermen for $25-45 per person, typically including a share of the catch. Dawn and dusk expeditions offer the best fishing opportunities.

Getting There

Reaching Ujae Atoll requires careful planning as there are no regular commercial flights to the island. The primary access is through Air Marshall Islands, which operates irregular charter flights from Majuro (the capital) to Ujae's small airstrip, typically costing $200-400 per person depending on availability and group size. Alternatively, inter-island cargo ships and private boats provide transportation from Majuro, though journeys can take 12-24 hours depending on weather conditions. Most visitors arrange transportation through tour operators in Majuro who can coordinate flights, permits, and local accommodations as part of package deals.

Getting Around

Transportation on Ujae Atoll is primarily on foot, as the main inhabited island is small enough to walk across in under 30 minutes. Bicycles are occasionally available for rent from locals for around $5-10 per day. For traveling between islets or exploring the lagoon, small motorboats and traditional outrigger canoes are available through local guides and fishermen. Walking paths connect most areas of interest on the main island, though some trails can be challenging during high tide or wet weather. The community is very walkable, and locals are always willing to provide directions or guidance to visitors.

Where to Stay

Community Guesthouse

Local Family Homestays

Camping Areas Near Beach

Traditional Thatched Accommodations

Visiting Teacher Quarters

Community Center Lodging

Food & Dining

Dining on Ujae Atoll centers around fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with an emphasis on seafood, coconut, breadfruit, and taro. Most meals are prepared by host families or community members, featuring traditional Marshallese dishes like grilled fish, coconut crab, and various preparations of breadfruit and pandanus. There are no restaurants in the conventional sense, but the community often organizes communal meals for visitors featuring traditional cooking methods including earth ovens and coconut husk fires. Visitors should expect simple but fresh and flavorful meals, often eaten family-style with local hosts who are eager to share their culinary traditions and stories.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Ujae Atoll is during the dry season from December to April, when rainfall is minimal and trade winds provide comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. During this period, seas are generally calmer, making boat transfers and water activities more enjoyable and safer. The wet season from May to November brings higher humidity, frequent rainfall, and rougher seas, though temperatures remain relatively constant year-round at 80-85°F. Weather can be unpredictable, and visitors should be prepared for sudden tropical showers regardless of season. Hurricane season (July-November) poses potential risks, though direct hits are relatively rare in this part of the Pacific.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in small denominations as there are no ATMs or credit card facilities on the island, and plan to contribute to community funds as a courtesy

Pack reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications as supplies are extremely limited and medical facilities are basic

Learn a few basic Marshallese phrases before visiting, as English proficiency varies and locals greatly appreciate efforts to communicate in their native language

Things to Do in Ujae Atoll