Rongelap Atoll

Rongelap is an atoll in the Pacific Ocean composed of about 61 islands surrounding a large lagoon with turquoise waters. The islands are covered in coconut palms and feature white sandy beaches that run along the entire formation.

In 1954 the atoll was the site of a large nuclear bomb test called Castle Bravo that forced inhabitants to evacuate and caused lasting damage to the environment. Afterward the islands remained largely uninhabited for many years as radiation effects continued to impact the land.

The people of Rongelap practiced traditional fishing and navigation skills passed down through generations, with the atoll serving as a center for ocean knowledge and seafaring customs. These traditions remain central to how residents understand their relationship with the surrounding waters.

Reaching the atoll requires coordination with boat services since it sits far out in the Pacific with limited facilities available. Visitors should prepare for basic conditions and arrange transportation with local operators well in advance.

The lagoon and its coral formations show visible signs of past radiation exposure that provide researchers with valuable data about ecosystem recovery. These natural records make the atoll a distinctive location for understanding environmental resilience in the Pacific.

Location: Marshall Islands

Elevation above the sea: 3 m

Part of: Ralik Chain

GPS coordinates: 11.31667,166.78333

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:24