Chuuk

The World's Greatest Wreck Dive Site

Operation Hailstone in February 1944 sent more than 60 Japanese warships and merchant vessels to the lagoon floor in just two days, creating what is now the largest underwater military cemetery in the world. Today, those wrecks are encrusted with coral and alive with fish, making Chuuk a bucket-list destination for divers from across the globe. From fighter planes resting on the seabed to cargo holds still filled with wartime equipment, the dive sites here are unlike anything else on Earth.

Islands Beyond the Lagoon

Beyond the wreck sites, Chuuk offers outer islands of striking beauty and deep cultural tradition. The Mortlock Islands, Hall Islands, and Namonuito Atoll lie scattered across the surrounding ocean, home to communities that maintain centuries-old navigation skills, weaving traditions, and a profound connection to the sea. Weno, the state capital, sits within the lagoon and serves as the hub for exploring both the underwater world and these more remote island groups.

Planning Your Time in Chuuk

Chuuk is a specialised destination best suited to divers, though snorkellers and those drawn to remote Pacific culture will find plenty to reward them. The dry season from December to April brings the clearest visibility underwater and calmer seas for island-hopping. United Airlines operates the primary air link via the Island Hopper route connecting Guam and Honolulu, making Chuuk accessible with advance planning. WānaTravel's video guides walk you through everything from choosing a liveaboard to exploring the outer islands.