Kolonia

Overview

Kolonia is the main town of Pohnpei and the place most visitors to the Federated States of Micronesia end up. It is small, low-rise and unhurried, with a few shops, guesthouses and a waterfront looking out to Sokehs Rock.

Layers of history show through: a Spanish fort wall, a German church bell tower, Japanese wartime relics. Beyond town, the island's rainforest, waterfalls and the ancient city of Nan Madol make it worth staying a few days.

Things to see

• 

  Spanish Wall

  The remains of the fort the Spanish built in the 1880s, now overgrown and tucked beside a sports field.

• German bell tower

  All that is left of a German-era Catholic church, standing beside its modern replacement in the town centre.

• Sokehs Rock

  The dramatic basalt cliff across the harbour, with a steep hike to the top and views back over Kolonia.

• 

  Nan Madol

  The great ruined city of basalt islets off the east coast, a day trip by car and boat with a local guide.

  Tickets and tours

Things to do

• 

  Kepirohi Waterfall

  Drive round the island to this wide waterfall and its swimming pool, often combined with a visit to Nan Madol.

• 

  Diving and snorkelling

  Local operators run trips to the mangrove channels, reef passes and the outer atolls of Ant and Pakin.

  Find tours

• 

  Sakau bars

  Join locals in the evening for a coconut shell of sakau, the island's thick, peppery ceremonial drink.

• Hike to a waterfall

  Guided walks into the interior lead through dense, muddy rainforest to cascades and cool swimming pools.

Where to stay

• Central Kolonia

  Walkable to shops, restaurants and the harbour; the most practical base.

  Hotels in Central Kolonia

• Hillside hotels

  A few hotels on the slopes above town have cooler air and views over the lagoon.

  Hotels in Hillside hotels

Getting around

Shared taxis are cheap and plentiful in town; for exploring the island, hire a car or book tours.

The airport is on Takatik islet, linked by causeway; it is a five to ten-minute drive into Kolonia.

When to go

Expect rain year-round; January to April is usually a little drier. Temperatures barely change through the year, so pack for humidity and sudden downpours.

Plan your trip to Kolonia

• HotelsBooking.com
• Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide

Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.

More city guides for Micronesia

• Palikir

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