Pohnpei Eco-Adventure Guide

Dream Inside, Step Outside

Tag: island

Where to Stay

7 Stars Inn

7 Stars Inn opened in 2012 at the site of the former Penny Hotel (opposite the Pohnpei Botanical Garden) and has quickly ascended to the top spot in terms of classiness. The property was carefully renovated and all rooms are beautifully furnished and decorated. Everything is kept spotless, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Three types of rooms are available: Single (2 twins), Double (queen + twin), and Deluxe (1 king). The hotel has its own car rental service, a restaurant (Riverside), and a sports bar (Lefty’s) downstairs. Reservation requests can be made through the excellent web site or by email.

Cliff

Cliff is another of Pohnpei’s long-standing hotels, though it has been renovated and had a nice new wing added to it in recent years. The rooms are simply furnished and typical of low to mid-range accommodations. It’s a favorite among Peace Corps workers in town for R ‘n’ R — which probably speaks to its affordability and level of comfort. Cliff also has its own car rental service, conference room facilities for rent, and a restaurant and bar. Reservation requests can be made by email.

Joy Hotel

Joy Hotel is one of the oldest hotels on Pohnpei. Recent renovations have dramatically improved some of the rooms. Over all, Joy is a nice little hotel, centrally-located on Ohmine Street at the north end of Kolonia. Its biggest claim to fame is certainly its restaurant downstairs, open three meals a day. Two types of rooms are available: Single (1 queen) and Double (2 twins). The renovated rooms are certainly the best, but non-smokers will be turned off by the pervasive smell of cigarette smoke. The hotel doesn’t do its own tours or car rental, but they can certainly refer you to someone who can. Staff speak English, Pohnpeian, and Japanese. All major credit cards are accepted. Repeat customers get a 10% discount. Reservation requests can be made by email.

Yvonne's Hotel, Pohnpei, FSM

Hideaway Hotel

Located on the southern end of Pohnrakied, Hideaway Hotel is situated on the hillside facing the southern end of Sokehs harbor. Unlike traditional hotels Hideaway has cottages rather than rooms. If you enjoy privacy and not having to worry about the people in the room next door, this is the place for you. There are two types of rooms available: single and double. The hotel has its own restaurant (Hideaway Bar & Grill), located at the bottom of the hill.

Island Palms Hotel

Located right in the center of town on Elenieng street across from Kolonia Elementary School. It’s only a short 1-5 minute walk from Ellen’s Market, 4TY Food Truck, Ace Office Supply, Ace Hardware, Ace Commercial, and Pohnpei Cinemas. They have single deluxe (1 king) and double (2 twins) rooms available for guests to stay in. Rooms on the northern side of the hotel have a small balcony where one can enjoy the outside air, whereas rooms on the southern side do not have a balcony. The hotel also has its own car rental service for guests only. Island Palms Restaurant, located on the first floor, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner for guests and the general public.

Mangrove Bay Hotel / Pohnpei Surf Club

Mangrove Bay, located on a man-made spit of land at the head of the bay between Sokehs Island and Kolonia, and the host of the Pohnpei Surf Club (PSC). Owned and operated by Kumer Panuelo and family, the establishment looks like it may have set a new standard on the island. The place is small, but rooms are comfortable and beautifully furnished with wonderful views of the nearby Yacht Harbor and free WIFI. Mangrove Bay has a Marina, boat gas station, and the Pohnpei Dive and Surf Club located right by the hotel. Mangrove Bay also has a nice open-air bar / restaurant. Reservation requests can be made through the hotel’s Facebook page. Pohnpei Surf and Dive Club offers the most extensive range of tour options on the island: surfing, jetski, land and ocean tours (Nan Madol ruins, waterfalls, island hikes, Ahnd Atoll), stand-up paddle boarding, and SCUBA diving. PSC has gear on hand for all of its tours. Reservation requests can be made by email.

Seabreeze Hotel

Seabreeze, located on the waterfront road at the north end of Kolonia, is the first hotel one passes when leaving the airport, but it sometimes gets overlooked anyway. It’s a no-frills joint to be sure, but the rooms are nice and kept very clean and the staff is friendly and informative. The best rooms are in the new wing, but some of the singles are down-right Lilliputian. Sea Breeze has its own car and kayak rental services. They can also arrange snorkeling, SCUBA diving, sport-fishing, surfing, hiking, and Nan Madol excursions through Paradise Tour Service. The on-site restaurant (Red Snapper) serves an expansive lunch buffet on Wednesdays. Reservation requests can be made by email.

Ocean View Plaza Hotel (West Wing)

Oceanview Plaza Hotel is one of the better located hotels on the island. The hotel sits on the mountain overlooking Mangrove Bay and the Sokehs harbor. They have single and double rooms as well cottages. The best rooms to book are the ocean-side rooms (as opposed to a mountain-side rooms), that way you can enjoy Pohnpei’s amazing sunsets and the view of the harbor. The hotel also has its own car rental service for guests staying at the hotel. Orchid restaurant is on the first floor of the hotel.

  • +691.320.7978 / 7049
  • P.O. Box: 416, Pohnpei, FM 96941

Para Nuii Island Resort

Para Nuii Island resort is Pohnpei’s most remote hotel among the hotels. Situated on the other side of the island, it’s about an 1 hour to an 1hr-30min drive from town to the dock depending on traffic and other factors. Afterwards it’s a short boat ride over reef to a beautiful island. The actual name of the island is Nahnningi Island which was built during the construction of Nan Madol and is located on the southern end of the reef flat on which Nan Madol is built. The island has fully furnished bungalows which guests can book for multiple nights. The sunrises there are amazing; the water is full of marine life thanks to a marine sanctuary located nearby as well. The only caveat is that guests will have to bring their own food and drinks with since there is no place that serves food on the island and the nearest restaurant is a 5 minute boat ride and a 1-2 hour drive away, and that’s if the tide is high enough to allow the boat back to the main island (this information is as of summer 2021, however plans may be in place to build a restuarant/ area where guests can dine in the near future). However despite that, it is a great place for weekend getaways and we highly recommend you visit the place at least once during your stay on Pohnpei.

  • +691.320.8085 / 4440

Yvonne’s Hotel

Yvonne’s Hotel bills itself as a “mid-sized hotel with the atmosphere of a family guesthouse.” That’s a good description. Things are basic, but always spotlessly clean. Unfortunately, (and through no fault of its owners), it just happens to be located between Telecom, which runs its noisy generator off and on at all hours, and a cinderblock plant with loud machinery. Yvonne’s is popular with business travelers, but gets fewer tourists. Single (1 queen), Double (1 queen + 1 twin), and Studio (3 twins + kitchen) are offered. Studios are available at a monthly rate. The hotel has its own car rental service and cafe-style restaurant (Kia’s). Reservation requests can be made by email.

The Basics >> Where to Stay

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Ros Island

Ros is another beautiful uninhabited reef island in the south. The long, skinny island seems to be slowly disappearing as it erodes, but there are huge areas of wonderful sand on the west side to lounge about on and a narrow belt of trees. It’s mostly notable as a destination for paddlers, taking a break from exploring mangrove forests nearby, or SCUBA enthusiasts, resting between dives (Kepidauen Ros is one of two locations on Pohnpei famous for manta rays). There is good swimming and snorkeling a few kicks from the island.

  • For permission to visit or camp on the island, call +691.320.5896 or the Kitti Municipal Government Office at +691.320.5038, 320.5808, 320.5049, or 320.3257.

Pohnpei Adventures >> Islands >> Ros Island

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Nahlap Island

Local kids swim near the Nahlap Island dock, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)
Nahlap, owned by former FSM congressman John David, has become one of the most popular lagoon island get-aways in Pohnpei State largely because it’s easy to get to, affordable, and has lots of huts for visitors. There are two docks, several stilt huts out over the water for lounging around and taking in the scenery, a volleyball court, and a variety of picnic spots. The island also has a small chapel on it located further in from the picnic area. They also have wifi on the island but only in a certain area and not across the whole island. The island is large, shady, and quite pleasant. Though the surrounding ocean is dominated by mangroves and seagrass, there are places on the far side and around the docks with good snorkeling. The southeast coast has some shady beaches at low tide (the best is in front of the tiny chapel) and rope swings for the kids. The turn-off for the launch at Sekeren Iap is about 21 km west and south of Kolonia. Continue past the Henry Nanpei memorial and the Rohnkitti Church all the way to the end of the road.

To make reservations or arrange for a boat taxi from Sekeren Iap in Rohnkitti, call +691.320.2776. Or call the Kitti Municipal Government Office at +691.320.5038, 320.5808, 320.5049, or 320.3257 and ask for assistance.

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Pohnpei Adventures >> Islands >> Nahlap Island

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Dekehtik Island (Sand Island)

Dekehtik, which means “small island”, also called Sand Island is an uninhabited coral islet west of Na, of which it was once a part (not be confused with the island of the same name on which the airport is located). The north coast is most suitable for camping with some sandy beaches at low tide and stunningly clear water for swimming and ogling the many stingrays in the area. There are huts on the island for people to stay in while on the island. The island is currently owned by the Adams family (the proprietors of Ace Hardware and Ace Office Supply). The best snorkeling is northwest of the island along the edge of the deep, blue hole of Pahn Nahkapw. The island itself is characterized by thickets of shrubby vegetation and coconut palms. Sandy beaches form on the north coast at low tide.

To make reservations for day visits or night stays and to arrange boat transport call ACE at +691.320.8279 / 5637.

  • Dekehtik in the foreground, Na Island in the background (PC: Lee Arkhie Perez)
  • Deketihk Island with Nahkapw Island in the background. (PC: Lee Arkhie Perez)
  • Sunrise on Dekehtik
  • Looking out towards Nahkapw island.

Pohnpei Adventures >> Islands >> Dekehtik Island

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Kehpara Island

Though not as developed as Black Coral the small thatched huts are adequate for camping trips, the island is equally as shady and much larger than Black Coral, and it actually offers easier access to the excellent snorkeling around Kehpara Pass. It’s cheaper, too. At low tide, there’s a beautiful sandy beach between the two islands. The island has solar lights set up around the island to provide some light at night however we recommend bringing along a lantern and some flashlights to help illuminate inside the huts since they are not rigged with lights.

To make reservations for day visits or overnight stays and arrange for boat pick-up from the launch behind Seinwar Elementary School, call Nickson Abraham (Oaun Kitti) at +691.925.5340 / +691.920.8081 or the Kitti Municipal Government Office at +691.320.5038, 320.5808, 320.5049, or 320.3257.

  • Black Coral (top island) and Kehpara (bottom island)
  • Channel between Black Coral and Kehpara

Pohnpei Adventures >> Islands >> Kehpara Island

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Black Coral Island

“Black Coral” is the southernmost islet in the Namwmour chain of islands that straddles Kehpara Pass (Dauen Kehpara) on the southwest corner of Pohnpei’s barrier reef. It’s true name is said to be Kehpara, but hardly anyone calls it that. Instead, Kehpara is usually used to refer to the island on the opposite side of the pass (island on lower right side of top image). In the mid-1600s, the conquering hero, Isokelekel, first entered Pohnpei’s barrier reef through Kehpara Pass on his way from Ahnd Atoll to Nan Madol. The sandy and well-shaded coral island, which lies within the Kehpara Marine Protected Area (MPA), is currently owned by the Adams family (the proprietors of Ace Hardware and Ace Office Supply). Black Coral is immaculately maintained with serpentine footpaths running here and there through large sprawling trees and several simple, wooden huts for overnight camping. Good snorkeling is located off the eastern shore and in the pass to the north, where white-tip and black-tip reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, and other marine wonders can often be seen. The best SCUBA diving is along the outer edge of the barrier reef north of the pass, a spot called Kehpara Wall. The area is a spawning ground for several varieties of protected grouper. Though some sandy areas appear at low tide along the inner coast, Black Coral doesn’t have any true beaches.

To make reservations for day visits or night stays and to arrange boat transport from the Seinwar Launch behind Seinwar Elementary School call ACE at +691.320.8279 / 5637. 

  • PC: Lee Arkhie Perez
  • Black Coral from above. (PC: Lee Arkhie Perez)
  • Black coral on the left, Kehpara on the right. (PC: Lee Arkhie Perez)
  • Black Coral (top island) and Kehpara (bottom island)
  • Channel between Black Coral and Kehpara
  • Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

Pohnpei Adventures >> Islands >> Black Coral Island

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Ahnd & Pakin Atolls

Pohnpei’s Satellite Atolls

Beyond Pohnpei’s lagoon, the closest land to be found exists on two “satellite atolls” called Ahnd (pronounced änt) and Pakin (pä.keen). An atoll is made up of a number of coralline islets in a ring around a relatively shallow lagoon and is created when a high, volcanic island submerges over millions of years, leaving only the reef that fringed its shores. The islands form as sand, coral rubble, and other detritus collect on the reef and begin to support trees, small plants, and animals. Coral sand accumulates on the lagoon sides of the islands and creates beaches.

And Atoll, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

Ahnd (“Ant”) Atoll

Ahnd Atoll, popularly but erroneously spelled “Ant,” is 16 km (8 mi) southwest of Rohnkitti and consists of 13 low, luxuriant islands 3-4 meters above sea-level and a lagoon of 70 km2 entered by a single passage in the reef.

When the larger-than-life hero Isokelekel voyaged to Pohnpei, intent on overthrowing the rulers of Nan Madol, he came first to Ahnd and lived there for some time, learning about Pohnpeian customs from its inhabitants. In modern times, the entire atoll became the property of a single Pohnpeian family — the descendents of Henry Nanpei, who lived from 1862 to 1928. Nanpei’s shrewd business sense and knack for manipulating local power politics enabled him to acquire the atoll and amass a great deal of other land.

  • Ahnd Atoll Channel
  • Black tip reef sharks at Ahnd Atoll (PC: Tia Panuelo)
  • Ahnd Atoll, Federated States of Micronesia (PC: Alex Zuccarelli)
  • Ahnd Atoll, Federated States of Micronesia (PC: Alex Zuccarelli)
  • Ahnd Atoll, Federated States of Micronesia (PC: Alex Zuccarelli)
  • Imwen Sapw Island and channel entrance

Today Ahnd has a few human residents, the biosphere rangers who make sure people do not fish within the protected area. There is also resort run by the Nanpei family located on the island of Pasa (information for booking trips can be found below).

It is home to some of the largest colonies of black noddies, terns, boobies, and frigatebirds in the Pacific as well as a healthy community of gray reef sharks in and around Dauenai (passage).

The most interesting islands to camp on are Pasa, Nikahlap, Dolen Mwuroi, and Nahlos. The former two have long stretches of deserted white-sand beach and excellent swimming. Nan Imwinsapw is closest to Dauenai (passage), where all the best snorkeling and the most accessible diving is found, but it has a big rat problem. Pahn Mwek is near to both excellent snorkeling and some of the rare diving that exists inside the lagoon. For the most part, however, the lagoon is the domain of snorkelers, sandy and punctuated by beautiful coral heads with lots of color and life at low tide.

Dauenai on the south side is where most people go to SCUBA dive. It is known for orange sponges (on the west wall) and large numbers of barracudas, jacks, and sharks throughout. Reef fish populations around the pass, unfortunately, have declined in the last two decades, but hopefully will recover now that the area is protected. Even so, the place still feels busy compared to other locations and you’ll see all the familiar species — unicornfish, triggerfish, wrasses, surgeons, groupers, butterflyfish, angelfish, moorish idols, and more. Moray eels might be spotted on occasion. Spinner dolphins are regularly seen at the mouth of the passage and in the waters around Ahnd. Visibility in the pass, though not as spectacular as outside the reef, can reach 50 meters (164 feet) — certainly nothing to complain about.

In addition to drift-dives on either side of the deep passage, there is stunning (and frequently overlooked) diving on the outer wall of the barrier reef on the northwest side near Olouna (often known as “bird island” for the huge colonies of seabirds that nest there), and north of Pasa. The west wall of the barrier reef plummets to great depths, and because it is more protected from the northeasterly winds and waves, it is marked by an abundance of soft coral, holes, tunnels, and caves — an exciting place for any advanced diver. Giant clams are also common. Visibility on the outside edges can be extraordinary, exceeding 70 meters (230 feet). Currents can be swift both in the pass and around the outer walls.

Visiting Ahnd Atoll / Permission & Protected Areas

Because Ahnd is a privately owned island and UNESCO marine biosphere reserve permission is required from the Nanpei family for visits.

The Tenants of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves

  • Core area(s) comprise a strictly protected ecosystem that contributes to the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems, species, and genetic variation.
  • A buffer zone surrounds or adjoins the core areas, and is used for activities compatible with sound ecological practices that can reinforce scientific research, monitoring, training, and education.
  • The transition area is the part of the reserve where the greatest activity is allowed, fostering economic and human development that is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable.

Olouna (“Bird Island”)

Landing on Olouna island is prohibited to prevent disruption of the habitats of the seabirds who nest there. If you’d like to take a look at Olouna, consider making a kayak trip around it. You can arrange to pay your boat extra to transport a small ocean kayak or two.

Pakin Atoll

Pakin Atoll, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

Pakin Atoll is composed of about 16 low islands, 13.6 km2 of reef, and a lagoon of 11 km2. It lies 38 km (24 mi) northwest of Palikir. In the early 1900s, Sokehs residents of Mortlockese descent were allowed to settle on the atoll, where their descendents (about 80) live to this day. Most of the islands are sparsely inhabited and all have excellent beaches, swimming, and nearby snorkeling.

One complication of visiting, however, is that Pakin has no true passage, making entry into the lagoon impossible for large boats and both difficult and dangerous for small boats. Boats enter at high tide at one of two places in the barrier reef (the usual spot is known as Uhrek), where the coral is slightly deeper than elsewhere — by a matter of a few inches. Kids at Pakin Atoll, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)The crossing is narrow and complicated by strong surge. Except at the highest tides, the crossing must be carefully timed to correspond with the surge. Boats can easily capsize in the surf or be thrown up on the reef; several locals have been killed at the spot while trying to make the crossing in less than ideal conditions. When planning a visit, make sure that you hire an experienced pilot who knows this particular crossing and is committed to the safety of his passengers. Also, it is important to plan arrivals and departures to coincide with the highest tides.

All of the diving and the best snorkeling is on the reef wall outside the lagoon, where water clarity and reef conditions are simply mind-blowing. The wall north of Nikahlap is known for sharks, while the opposite side of the island is home to large schools barracuda. For sea turtle sightings, divers will want to try the walls on the northeast side. Turtles nest on many of the small islets north of Painpwel, Sapangin, Kehrot, and Osetik.

  • Nikalap Island, Pakin
  • Nikalap Island, Pakin
  • Nikalap Island, Pakin
  • Painpwel Island, Pakin
  • Painpwel Island, Pakin
  • Painpwel Island, Pakin

Pohnpei Adventures >> Islands >> Ahnd & Pakin Atolls

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Stores & Markets

Businesses on Pohnpei open and close without warning as the local economy is a tough environment for any enterprise, but the ones we’ve listed here have been around for a while and seem relatively stable.

A-One Supermart

A-One is a large grocery store on Main Street that sells groceries, imported produce, and general merchandise. The store used to be located down the street a bit in a tiny little shop. When the Truk Trader Company’s Wallmart folded, A-One moved in. They have a smaller branch stores: in town across from Amcres Gas Station (also on Main Street), in Mwalok on Sokehs Island, and in Palikir across from the College of Micronesia,.

  • 7AM-Midnight (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.2537

Ace Commercial Center

Ace Commercial Center, located near the movie theater just outside of Kolonia, sells a wide selection of both perishable and non-perishable groceries, fresh imported produce, and household supplies. Produce shipments are irregular — sometimes the selection is good and sometimes there’s next to nothing.

  • 7AM-10PM (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.2518

Ace Hardware

This local branch of the Ace Hardware chain, specializes in hardware, home improvement, household supplies, appliances, sporting goods, and general merchandise.

  • 8AM-5PM (Mon-Fri); 8AM-1PM (Sat)
  • +691.320.2723

Ace Office Supply

Located next to Ace Hardware, Ace Office Supply is a large facility that carries office supplies, electronics, household supplies, furniture, and general merchandise.

  • 8AM-5PM (Mon-Fri); 8AM-1PM (Sat)
  • +691.320.8279

Blue Nile

This warehouse store at the western edge of Kolonia, sells non-perishable groceries and frozen foods, general merchandise, household supplies, and bulk items.

  • 7AM-10:30PM (Mon-Thu, Sun); 7AM-Midnight (Fri-Sat)
  • +691.320.7476

Ellen’s Market

Located on the waterfront road, this small farmer’s market sells locally-grown produce and fresh fish.

  • 7AM-9PM (Mon-Sat)
  • +691.320.2747

Isamu Nakasone Store (INS)

Down a back-road in the northern part of Kolonia, this store has a wide range of non-perishable groceries, general merchandise, household supplies, and clothes.

  • 6AM-9PM (Mon-Fri); 6AM-8PM (Sat); 6AM-6PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.2587

Palm Terrace Store

Palm Terrace Store, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

Palm Terrace is easily Pohnpei’s largest and most diverse grocery store with both perishable and non-perishable groceries, frozen foods, fresh imported produce, general merchandise, household supplies, and clothes. Produce shipments are sporadic — sometimes the selection is very good and sometimes there’s practically nothing.

  • 7:30AM-9PM (Mon-Fri); 7:30AM-8PM (Sat); 10AM-6PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.2882

PMK Fish Market

Located behind One World Plaza in the same building as the Conservation Society of Pohnpei, PMK Fish Market according to their page “specializes in line-caught reef and nearshore fish and mangrove crabs”. All fish and crabs sold at the market are caught using sustainable fishing methods: catching/selling fish only during their open season, catching/sale of fishes that are mature and are not a protected species. They also vacuum seal their seafood to keep it fresh for as long as possible. We recommend purchasing your fish from them whenever you can; by doing so you’re supporting a business the puts environmental gain above financial gain, and that’s something worth supporting.

Pohnpei Hardware

This store near the waterfront specializes in hardware, home improvement, and household supplies.

  • 8AM-5PM (Mon-Fri); 8AM-1PM (Sat)
  • +691.320.7493 / 7942 / 8611

PRD Drive-In

PRD is the mother of all mom-and-pop stores. Located at the north end of Kaselehlie Street (Main) on the corner of Ohmine, this small store has found huge success (probably due to its location, expansive inventory, and extended hours). PRD is the place to go when you need something basic late at night when everything else is closed.

  • 6AM-Midnight (Mon-Fri); 6AM-1AM (Sat-Sun)

True Value Hardware

This local branch of the True Value chain, sells hardware, home improvement, and household supplies.

  • 8AM-5PM (Mon-Fri); 8AM-3PM (Sat)
  • +691.320.5726

Simon’s Market

Simon's Market, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

This is the largest local market currently in operation they have daily deliveries of fresh produce, fresh fish, crab, lobster (on occasion), and other local food items. Their produce is grown at Simon’s farm in Palikir and elsewhere, while their fish is brought in by local fisherman. They also sell made traditional handicrafts and tools. Buying produce and other goods from Simon’s is a great way to support local farmers, fishermen, and craftspeople.

  • 7:30AM-8PM (Mon-Sat); 10AM-5PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.7002

Yoshie Enterprises

This small store in eastern Kolonia sells non-perishable groceries, general merchandise, household supplies, electronics, and clothes. It’s a good place to go if you’re looking for Asian food items.

  • 9AM-8PM (Mon-Sat); 10AM-6PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.2412

The Basics >> Stores & Markets

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Eating & Drinking

Pohnpei and Speed are two words that often do not go together. Service at restaurants can vary, one day it can be a short wait for your food, other days it can take longer. But that’s the beauty of island life, everyone and everything is laid back and relaxed. This is not New York City where it is all about that “go-go-go mentality”. We encourage you to embrace the island lifestyle. Take every chance you get to unwind and live in the moment.

4TY Food Truck

A food trailer located beside 4TY Store (the side towards Ace Office Supply) along the Nett Circle Island road. The popular food items are their  rotisserie chickens and their cheeseburgers and fries, both of which are great meals.

  • 8AM-8PM (Mon-Sat)
  • +691.320.8638

Angie’s Fast Food

Angie’s is the closest thing Pohnpei has to a fast-food chain. The menu includes the typical myocardial infarction favorites — burgers, fries, chili, fried chicken, etc. Think grease, and lots of it.

  • 7:30AM-8PM (Mon-Fri); 7:30AM-8:30PM (Sat); 8AM-8PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.1480

Arnold’s

Arnold’s, located next to Blue Nile, is a cozy little restaurant in a cute pre-fab building — the only one of its kind on Pohnpei. Arnold’s greatest strength is its menu, which features a number of dishes that are offered nowhere else. Servers are attentive and friendly.

  • 7AM-3PM, 5-9PM (Mon-Sat); 9AM-3PM, 5-9PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.5078

Cliff Rainbow

This restaurant is located on the ground floor of Cliff Hotel and has garnered fame locally for three things: pizza, steak, and mangrove crab. They have a full menu typical of other hotel restaurants on Pohnpei, and though Cliff Rainbow is a bit pricier, the quality of the dishes is about the same as everywhere else. The place has nice atmosphere after dark, but unfortunately you may have to wait quite a long time for your meal, and getting the attention of the indifferent wait-staff can be very difficult.

  • 6:30AM-1:30PM / 5:30PM-9:30PM (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.5939 / 2415

Hideaway Bar & Grill

Image credit: Lee Arkhie Perez Photography (left image)

Hideaway Bar & Grill located right below Hideaway Hotel on the southern end of Pohnrakied is one of Pohnpei’s more aesthetically pleasing restaurants. It is an open-air restaurant built out over the water in a mangrove estuary. They serve a variety of dishes from the traditional meals you can find in most restaurants on Pohnpei to other dishes such as sushi. Located at the center of the restaurant is the bar which serves various types of beer, liquor, and specialty cocktails. They also do teppanyaki, you must call in advance to book a slot if you would like to experience island style teppanyaki. The whole place can also be reserved for private parties, dinners, or other events just contact the restaurant to book a reservation.

Hotplate

Located adjacent to Snowii’s and & 7 Stars Store, Hotplate is a take-away only food place. Like Angie’s Fast Food they have a relatively small menu and serve mainly fried foods. 

  • 8AM-8PM (Mon-Sat) / 9AM-3PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.6825

Island Palms Restaurant

Located on the 1st floor of the Island Palms Hotel. They serve many of the usual dishes that you can find in most restaurants with a few specialty dishes.

Joy Restaurant

Joy Lunch
Joy Lunch

This bustling restaurant on the ground-floor of the Joy Hotel is a Pohnpei main-stay. There’s nothing particularly daring about the menu, which consists of the usual run of Pohnpei-style Japanese dishes, including udon, sashimi (best in town), sushi, katsu, and teriyaki chicken, but the service is some of the best on the island and everything is always clean and tidy. The most popular dish by far is the Joy Lunch (called Joy Dinner in the evening) with fried fish, sashimi, miso or seaweed soup, steamed rice, and cabbage salad in a bento box.

  • 7AM-3PM, 5-9PM (Mon-Sat); 7AM-2PM, 5-9PM (Sun)
  • +691.320.2447

Kaselehlie Diner

This lunch buffet, located opposite PCR, serves the usual run of fried chicken, noodles, fried rice, boiled bananas, lumpia, and various other filipino-style dishes.

Kia’s

Kia's

This small coffee shop-style restaurant on the grounds of Yvonne’s Hotel is best at breakfast. Highlights include the tuna omelet and chicken adobo. The staff is good about keeping your water and bottomless iced tea glasses full. Don’t miss the Kia’s Fried Ice Cream as well.

  • 7:30AM-2PM, 5-9PM (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.1248

Lit Palm Sushi & Lounge

Lit Palm is located in the middle unit of the H&E building down on the Kolonia town waterfront adjacent to Sea Breeze Hotel. They serve mainly serve sushi but also have other types of seafood as well an Asian-American Fushion Dish. They also serve specialty cocktails, sake, sochu, beers, and wines.

Mangrove Bay Sushi Bar

Located adjacent to the Mangrove Bay Hotel, it is an open-air restaurant that serves sushi, seafood, and chicken wings. The place has a great atmosphere and a view of the of the harbor. Similar to Hideaway Bar and Grill the place can be booked for private parties, dinners, and other events.

Nantehlik (PCR)

PCR is a rotary lunch buffet. Items on the conveyor include noodle dishes, fried fish, Japanese-style curry, sweet boiled breadfruit in coconut cream, sashimi, sushi, lumpia, and steamed rice.

  • 11:00AM-3PM (Mon-Sun, except Saturdays)
  • +691.320.7845

One World Plaza

Located on the first floor of the One World Plaza building down on Kapwar E Sou road. It is a restaurant/ coffee shop. They’re menu consists mainly of sushi, seafood (shrimp, mussels, etc.), and teppanyaki style dishes. They also have various types of drinks (smoothies, lattes, frappes) and pastries (brownies, cookies, cinnamon rolls) available. There is wifi available for customers to use while having their coffee or enjoying a full meal.

Orchid Restaurant

Orchid, which operates out of Oceanview Hotel, has a few innovative things on its menu, such as the crab and cheese-stuffed tuna. It is an open air restaurant that has a great view that overlooks the the harbor. It also has a small bar located inside.

  • 6AM-10PM (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.7978

Red Snapper

Red Snapper is Seabreeze Hotel’s restaurant. It’s a pretty standard kind of place with a huge menu of the usual dishes found everywhere on Pohnpei. Wednesday is buffet day. The place was recently expanded a great deal.

  • 7AM-2PM, 5-9PM (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.2065

Riverside Restaurant

Found on the lower floor of 7 Stars Inn, this relatively new restaurant has a few new things to offer in addition to the typical local takes on Japanese, Filipino, and Chinese food. Breakfast is the most interesting meal with tasty eggs benedict and eggplant omelets on the menu (Riverside is also the only restaurant on Pohnpei that serves oatmeal). Lunch and dinner options include a wide variety of sandwiches, burgers, pasta, chicken and beef dishes, and seafood. Try the Potato Skins appetizer,

  • 11AM-2PM, 5-9PM (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.6147

Sei

Sei used to offer the best buffet on the island, but it has now moved from its original location out closer to the street and serves only curry.

  • 11AM-2PM (Mon-Sun)
  • +691.320.4266

Town’s Diner

Town’s Diner pride themselves in their continued consistency and quality. One of their featured menu items is the Town’s Combo which includes fried chicken, breaded fried fish and sashimi. They also have a great spread of pies and other dessert items such as Snickers Cheesecake and the ever-popular Taro Yogi frappe. Don’t forget to also check out their in-house cafe, Chill, for coffee and bubble tea!

Tipping at restaurants and bars, though not mandatory, is encouraged and much appreciated by local waitstaff.

The Basics >> Eating & Drinking

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Getting Connected

Internet Access / WiFi

Pohnpei Public Library

Considering how small Pohnpei is, its public library is truly an exceptional facility. In addition to a surprisingly diverse catalog of books and periodicals (and a large Children’s Section), the library also has a computer lab and wireless internet. Use of any computer lab station is $2.00 per hour with a limit of one hour per day. Use of the library’s private wi-fi is $10.00 per month, however there is also free wifi available there.

Phone

International Phone Calls

International phone cards purchased outside Micronesia will not work in the FSM, because “800” numbers aren’t free. However, you can make international phone calls from a cellphone with an FSMTC SIM card. There are regular and off-peak rates*. See below:

For a complete list of international rates, visit https://www.fsmtc.fm/phone/international-rates.

Local Phone Calls

Most unlocked GSM mobile phones will work on Pohnpei. Simply purchase a SIM card and a pre-paid FSM TelCard at FSM Telecom headquarters. TelCards are available in $5, $10, and $20 denominations. There is no charge for in-coming calls.

For a complete list of domestic rates, visit https://www.fsmtc.fm/phone/domestic-rates.

Mobile Data

Again, most unlocked GSM mobile phones will work on Pohnpei. To use mobile data first purchase a SIM card and a pre-paid FSM TelCard at FSM Telecom headquarters. Mobile data plans available for purchase with the use of the pre-paid credit from TelCards. Simply dial and call *000# and an interactive menu will prompt different options including one to order a plan. Make sure that you have enough load on your sim to purchase the plan you would like to have. You can find how much pre-paid credit/load you currently have on your sim by dialing and calling *767# or selecting the option on the interactive menu.

For complete information on mobile data setup and rates, visit https://www.fsmtc.fm/wireless/go.

Postal Services

Post Offices

Pohnpei has 3 post offices. The Main Post Office is located on Main Street (Kaselehlie) in Kolonia, while a smaller branch offices can be found at the Pohnpei International Airport and the National Government complex in Palikir. Under the current agreement with the U.S., the F.S.M.’s postal services are officially part of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Pohnpei has a U.S. zip code (96941) and is treated like any U.S. state. Mail sent to and from the U.S. follows USPS domestic mail rates. Parcels sent to the F.S.M. from the U.S., however, do require a customs form. All Pohnpei addresses are post office boxes — there are no residential addresses on the island. You can also accept mail sent to you via general delivery (general delivery is only available for 3 months).

The key to getting things to and from Micronesia promptly is to keep packages small (under 20 lbs), so that they can be sent by air. Large, heavy parcels are invariably sent by ship and take 8-10 weeks to arrive. Boxes should be carefully prepared and wrapped with clear packing tape. Fragile items should be very well-padded to prevent damage. Express Mail will not get your package to or from the island any faster than Priority.

  • Main Office: 8AM-3PM (Mon-Fri); 9AM-2PM no parcel pick-up (Sat)
  • Palikir Office: 9AM-4PM (Mon-Fri)
  • Airport Office: 9:30AM-2PM (Mon-Fri)
  • +691.320.2313

The Basics >> Getting Connected

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