Anau

Anau is located on the opposite side of the island from the bigger town of Vaitape. It doesn't get nearly as many visitors and, perhaps for this reason, it's known as the most authentic village on the island. The area consists of a few shops, restaurants and a big white church, and is supposed to offer a more traditional look at Polynesian life.

Anau has an excellent marine museum, which features miniature replicas of famous boats, but the town's main attractions are its quaintness and its location. It is a perfectly placed jumping-off point for jungle exploration with many hikes and 4x4 tours leaving from the area.

Anau sits on a shallow lagoon which is a hugely popular dive spot. The area is home to manta rays, moray eels, clown fish, sea anemones and rose corals at depths of up to 80 feet (24 meters).