Second Cantilever

The Second Cantilever is a monumental piece of industrial infrastructure that stands as a defining feature of Nauru's western coastline in Aiwo. Erected in the 1970s to bolster the island's phosphate export capacity, this massive engineering feat was designed to reach far beyond the fringing coral reefs. Since Nauru lacks natural deep-water harbors, the cantilever allows large cargo vessels to load phosphate while moored in the open sea. The structure represents the zenith of the island's mining era, showcasing the technical ingenuity required to overcome geographical constraints. Even as the intensity of mining has fluctuated over the decades, the cantilever remains a dominant landmark, visible from miles away and serving as a testament to the nation's economic history. It stands as a silent witness to the rise and transformation of the Phosphate Corporation's operations and remains one of the most photographed and recognized engineering sites in the Central Pacific.

Nearby cities

Baitsi

Baitsi is located in the north of Nauru and extends from the coast into the hilly interior.

Denigomodu

Denigomodu is the most populous district of Nauru.

Aiwo

Aiwo is considered the main commercial hub of Nauru.

Denigomodu Settlement

Denigomodu is the economic residential hub for phosphate industry workers.

Boe

Boe is a small but densely populated administrative district in southwest Nauru.

Nibok

Nibok is a district on the western coast of Nauru.

Buada Historic Settlement

The fertile inland area around Buada Lagoon, a center for agriculture and settlement on the island for centuries.

Buada

Buada is the only landlocked district of Nauru.

Yaren

Yaren is the primary administrative district of Nauru and serves as the de facto capital.

Meneng

Meneng is an extensive district in the southeast of Nauru.

Uaboe

Uaboe is a small coastal district in northwestern Nauru.

Ewa

Ewa is the northernmost point of Nauru.

Anibare

Anibare is best known for the bay of the same name, which offers the island's finest swimming beach.

Anetan

Anetan is a district on the northern coast of Nauru.

Arenibek

Arenibek is a small coastal settlement in the Anabar district.

History & landmarks

Central Pacific Bank

The Central Pacific Bank in Aiwo is Nauru's primary financial institution.

Aiwo Civic Centre

The civic centre in Aiwo is a central hub for administrative and social events.

Aiwo Pinnacles

The Aiwo Pinnacles are impressive remnants of the limestone structure on the west of the island.

Nauru Post Office

The main post office in Aiwo is a key institution for the island's communication.

Nauru General Hospital

The Nauru General Hospital in Denigomodu is the primary medical facility on the island.

Yangor Cliffs

The Yangor Cliffs are rugged rock formations on the west coast.

Eigigu Supermarket

The Eigigu Supermarket is the island's largest commercial center for consumer goods.

Command Ridge

Command Ridge is the highest point in Nauru at 65 meters elevation.

Nature

Aiwo Mangroves

Isolated mangrove patches can be found in protected zones along the Aiwo coast.

More places

Phosphate Cantilever

This iconic cantilever is used for loading phosphate onto ships offshore.

Western Slopes

The western slopes drop steeply from the Topside plateau toward the narrow coastal plain in the Aiwo district.

RONPHOS Headquarters

The RONPHOS center coordinates all phosphate extraction on Nauru.

Nauru Utilities Corporation (NUC)

NUC is the sole provider of electricity and water on the island.

Command Ridge Guns

Historic Japanese coastal defense guns located at the highest point of the island, remaining in their original positions today.

Command Ridge Forest

Command Ridge hosts some of the densest remaining forest patches on the island.

Phosphate Cantilevers

These distinctive cantilever structures allow cargo ships to be loaded directly off the coast.

Aiwo Port

The Aiwo Port is the primary maritime gateway for the island's foreign trade and supplies.