Though one of the least visited countries, Marshall Island consists of two island chains of 30 atolls (ring-shaped reefs) and 1,152 islands, of low coral limestone and sand. Bikini and Enewetak are former US nuclear test sites; Kwajalein, the famous World War II battleground, is now used as a US missile test range.

The Republic of Marshall Islands is a Visa on Arrival nation for Philippine Passport Holders. It is one of the VOA countries in Oceania for Filipinos. So if you want to travel in Oceania beyond Australia and New Zealand, try this tropical getaway. You will be in awe of this tiny country!

Visa Free Countries

There are Visa Free Countries and Visa on Arrival Countries; the difference is that the visa fee of USD 100 is waived for holders of VIsa-Exempt passports and diplomatic passports.

Here is the list of Visa Free Countries according to their Division of Immigration:

No Period Restrictions

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Can Enter for 90 days on a 180-day period

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Visa on Arrival Countries or Territories

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Requirements for Entering Marshall Islands

Valid Passport - valid for at least 6 months from date of departure
Confirmed Onward or Return Ticket - with visas (if applicable)
Visa On Arrival Fee - USD 100 (only for those Visa on Arrival Territories)

Overview of Marshall Islands

Capital: Majuro
Language: English, Marshallese
Currency: United States Dollar

The Marshall Islands was once a portion of the “Carolines” or what used to be “New Philippines” during the 1500s under the Spanish rule. It was then under German, Japanese, then the US before it gained its independence in 1986.

This tiny nation is just between Micronesia and Hawaii. It is on the pacific ocean and near the international date line making its time GMT +12. This archipelagic country has over a thousand islands and islets; so expect dry and wet season.

Like most Pacific Countries; coconuts, bananas, taro, and breadfruit are common in Marshall Island. Seafood, chicken, and pork are also part of their diet, so you don’t have to worry about what to eat. It will be satisfying and delicious. Marshallese are also friendly and peaceful; so you’ll definitely feel the warmth and welcome during your stay.

Going to the Marshall Islands

Marshall Island’s International Airport is located in its capital - Majuro. Direct flight to the Marshall Islands) are from Guam and Honolulu (Hawaii) of the United States, Micronesia (Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei) Nauru, and Kiribati.

What to do in Marshall Islands

1. Go near Bikini Atoll

Fun Fact: Bikini Atoll is the real place where Bikini Bottom - SpongeBob SquarePants’ town was inspired. What made this really famous is that from 1946 - 1958 this was a test site of Nuclear weapons of the United States. Right now, it’s a popular dive site as there are many wrecks near this Atoll and marine life is slowly recovering.

2. Meet Locals in Ebeye Island

Photo by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Ebeye Island is the 6th most densely populated island with more than fifteen thousand persons in 80 acres. This place is home to descendants of the refugees during nuclear testings. You will learn more about Marshallese life and culture here. Though dive sites are amazing here, the happy people will make you fall in love with the island.

3. Have a getaway at Arno Atoll

A very popular coral atoll near Majuro, the capital of the Marshall Islands, is the Arno Atoll. With 133 islands with white sandy beaches surrounded by crystal blue waters, you would be in awe of this place. And FYI - Marshall Islands hasn’t that many tourists - so you would definitely have peace and quiet and the islands to yourselves.

4. Learn about history in Alele Museum

Learn more about the Marshallese traditions and history in Alele Museum. It’s in Majuro, so before or after your trip you can drop by. There is also a library where you can see locals reading and learning and local books for additional knowledge on Marshall Island.

5. Dive in Kalalin Pass

Locally called “the Aquarium,” Kalalin Pass is one of the best diving spots in the world. With over a hundred of fishes. There are also sharks, rays, turtles, and jacks. If you love drift diving, the pass is really a great spot.

6. Be in awe of Runit Island

The Runit Dome is the place where radioactive waste was left by the US. It’s in entombed in concrete and the space all around it has been recovering since the clean-up. It’s a very interesting spot in the Marshall Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions for your travel to the Marshall Islands

1. Is Marshall Islands Visa-free?

For Philippine Passport Holders, it is a visa on arrival when you go to the Marshall Islands. For other nationalities, see the list above!

2. Is it safe to travel to the Marshall Islands?

The Marshall Islands is a very safe place to travel. Crime rates are low but always be vigilant when traveling. I always recommend buying travel insurance since we don’t know what will happen to us. Check out Safetywing, my insurance provider.

3. Is it expensive in the Marshall Islands for tourists?

The Marshall Islands are cheap in meals and transportation, but hotels will be a bit pricey as they are limited. You might want to prepare at least USD100 per day.

4. When is the best time to visit the Marshall Islands?

March to August is the peak season for visiting as the temperature is sunny and not rainy season. Calm seas are from May to October, so you may want to dive during that time.

5. Where should I stay in the Marshall Islands?

You can stay at the capital Majuro as the airport is there and most spots are accessible through here. Here is our list of recommended Hotels in the Marshall Islands.

Enjoy not only the crystal blue waters, scenic dives, and rich history of the Republic of Marshall Islands, but also the warmth and happiness of the people. You will truly get inspired by the Marshallese. Though there isn’t much to do besides dives, beach, history - it’s a great place to unwind and relax.