Chuuk Lagoon

Chuuk Lagoon is an atoll in Chuuk State, Federated States of Micronesia, encompassing several volcanic islands within a large reef ring. The reef forms a natural shelter around the inner waters, creating calm conditions between the islands.

Japanese forces built a major naval base here during World War II, which was heavily struck by American air raids in 1944. The sunken ships and aircraft remained on the seabed, turning the lagoon into an unintended underwater museum.

Residents across the islands preserve ancient navigation skills once used to cross vast Pacific stretches without instruments. Local families often organize their settlements along traditional clan lines, visible in the layout of villages today.

Flights to Weno offer the main access to the islands, where visitors find lodging from simple guesthouses to dive resorts. Conditions for underwater exploration are best during the drier months when visibility is clearer.

Some of the sunken warships at the bottom of the lagoon still contain intact sake bottles, porcelain, and personal items from the crews. Corals have since covered the wrecks, gradually turning rusted steel structures into artificial reefs.