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Kwajalein Lagoon
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Kwajalein Lagoon is the central feature of the Kwajalein Atoll and ranks as one of the largest coral lagoons on the planet. Covering an expansive area of 2,174 square kilometers, it forms a massive circular depression enclosed by a 130-kilometer reef perimeter dotted with 97 islets. Geologically, it is a classic atoll structure where the lagoon's floor provides a sheltered environment compared to the volatile open Pacific. The lagoon gained worldwide fame as a strategic theater during World War II, particularly during the Battle of Kwajalein in 1944. Today, its waters hide a legendary 'ghost fleet' of sunken warships and aircraft, making it a site of immense maritime historical value. Currently, it serves as a crucial component of the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site. While military restrictions limit public access, the lagoon's vast turquoise waters remain a sanctuary for diverse coral species and marine life, largely undisturbed by commercial activities.
- Location: Marshall Islands
- Nearby: Ebeye Economic Hub (49 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 61 | 91 | 125 | 141 | 144 | 186 | 195 | 206 | 247 | 202 | 115 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Kwajalein Lagoon is one of the world’s largest coral lagoons, forming a massive topographic depression in the open ocean. The lagoon is freely accessible and can be explored by boat; swimming and snorkeling are possible.
Typical hours
The lagoon is accessible at any time, but boat trips are usually only available during daylight. There are no set hours; check local conditions and safety advice on site.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted; the vast water expanse and surrounding islands offer remarkable panoramas. Drone shots may require permission, so check in advance.
Time needed
Time spent at the lagoon is flexible, from a short hour to a full day. Popular is a 2-3 hour boat trip touring several islands.
Combine with
Combine a lagoon trip with a visit to Yokwe Memorial or historic sites on Kwajalein. Diving and fishing in the lagoon are also recommended.
Getting there
The lagoon surrounds Kwajalein Atoll and is easily accessible by boat from the main island of Kwajalein. Boat use may require a permit as parts of the atoll are used for military purposes.
Insider tip
Plan a boat trip in calm weather for best visibility in the clear water. Bring sun protection and plenty of water as the sun glare on the water is intense.
Geography
Facts
- lagoon area: 2,174 km²
- lagoon length: 120 km
- number of islands: 97
- land area: 16.4 km²
- maximum depth: approx. 37 m (varies)
- use: US missile testing range
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes Kwajalein Lagoon special?
It is one of the largest lagoons in the world, strategically very significant.
Can you visit the lagoon?
Kwajalein is a military restricted area; access is only possible with permission.
Why is it militarily important?
An important test base for missile systems is located there.
Is there nature there?
Yes, despite military use, the lagoon is rich in corals.
Can you take pictures there?
In military areas, photography is strictly prohibited.
Kwajalein Lagoon: where is it located?
Kwajalein Lagoon is located in Marshall Islands.
Kwajalein Lagoon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Kwajalein Lagoon: why is it worth visiting?
Kwajalein Lagoon is the central feature of the Kwajalein Atoll and ranks as one of the largest coral lagoons on the planet.
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Nearby cities
Majuro
Majuro is the capital and largest city of the Marshall Islands.
Ebeye Economic Hub
The most densely populated commercial center in the country.
Ebeye
Ebeye is the most populous island of the Kwajalein Atoll.
Arno
Arno is the main settlement on the Arno Atoll, which is the closest atoll to Majuro.
Laura Beach
An idyllic sandy beach at the western end of Majuro Atoll, known for its tranquility.
Laura
Laura is located at the western tip of the Majuro Atoll and is known for its farming.
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Jabor
Jabor is the administrative center of the Jaluit Atoll.
Wotje
Wotje is the largest settlement on the Wotje Atoll.
Mili
Mili is the administrative center of the Mili Atoll.
Kili
Kili is an isolated island in the Ralik Chain.
Aur
Aur is the main settlement of the Aur Atoll.
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Mejit
Mejit is a unique island that does not form an atoll.
Namu
Namu is a traditional settlement on the Namu Atoll.
Ailinglaplap Atoll
The cultural heart of the Marshall Islands, famous for its sailing traditions and coconut groves.
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Woja
Woja is a significant settlement on the Ailinglaplap Atoll.
History & landmarks
Meck Island Missile Site
A strategic location for anti-ballistic missile testing during the Cold War and into the present day.
Ebey Island Battery
Strategic island in Kwajalein Atoll featuring Japanese coastal defense guns and bunkers from 1944.
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Ralik Chain
The Ralik Chain represents the western branch of the Marshall Islands, consisting of atolls situated along a submarine ridge.
DeBrum House (Likiep)
A 19th-century colonial plantation house built by the DeBrum family, significant for local history.
Nature
Kwajalein Atoll
The world's largest coral atoll by lagoon area, hosting a complex marine ecosystem in the central Pacific Ocean.
Namu Atoll
An elongated atoll in the Ralik Chain featuring several deep-water passes and high marine biodiversity.
Likiep Highest Point
The highest point of the Marshall Islands is located on Likiep Atoll, reaching a modest elevation of only 10 meters.
Likiep Atoll
An atoll in the Ratak Chain containing the highest natural point in the Marshall Islands at just 10 meters.
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Rongerik Wildlife Area
Due to the lack of a permanent population, this atoll has developed undisturbed marine and terrestrial biodiversity.
Rongelap Atoll
A large atoll in the Ralik Chain, known for its crystal-clear lagoon and untouched coral gardens.
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Ailinginae Atoll
This uninhabited atoll is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its pristine coral reefs.
Erikub Atoll
This uninhabited atoll serves as a primary nesting ground for green sea turtles near the populated Wotje Atoll.
More places
Roi-Namur Ruins
Site of a fierce WWII battle and later a strategic Cold War tracking station in the Kwajalein Atoll.
Yokwe Memorial
The Yokwe Memorial on Kwajalein represents the spirit of hospitality and peace.
Kwajalein Technology Center
A high-technology center for missile testing and satellite tracking.
Kwajalein Battlefield
Major site of the Pacific War in 1944.
Ailinglaplap Atoll
A fertile atoll with lush tropical vegetation and dense coconut palm groves located in the Ralik Chain.
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Wotje Japanese Base
Extensive Japanese fortifications and aircraft remains from WWII are scattered across this atoll.
Wotje Trade Post
A key trade center for the northern atolls.
Wotje Airfield Ruins
Wotje hosts extensive ruins of a Japanese WWII airbase.