Buada: The Heart of Nauru's Hidden Paradise

Discover Buada in Nauru: A tranquil haven with the serene Buada Lagoon, lush greenery, and an authentic glimpse into the island's traditional way of life.

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Buada

Nestled in the southwestern part of Nauru, Buada is a serene and picturesque district that offers a unique glimpse into the island's culture and natural beauty. This small but enchanting area is home to the famous Buada Lagoon, a freshwater lake surrounded by lush vegetation and tropical flora, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. Buada is one of the most verdant parts of Nauru, providing a stark contrast to the island's more barren, phosphate-mined areas. As you explore the district, you'll find the traditional Nauruan lifestyle alive and well, with locals going about their daily activities in a setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The lagoon itself is a peaceful retreat, ideal for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection. While Buada may not boast the bustling attractions of larger tourist destinations, its charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a more intimate and authentic experience, gaining insight into the island's history and culture. From the friendly locals to the stunning landscapes, Buada is a must-visit for those looking to discover the hidden gems of Nauru.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Buada.

Pack light, breathable clothing as Nauru has a tropical climate.
Carry cash, as credit card facilities are limited in Nauru.
Respect local customs and traditions; always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Visit Buada Lagoon early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
Try to interact with the locals to learn more about Nauru's history and culture.

File:Buada Lagoon, Nauru 2007.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Abruozdielis:Fishing on Nauru.jpg - Wikipedia

File:NauruBuada077.jpg - Wikipèdia Vèneta, ła ensiclopedia łìbara

File:Vegetable patch Buada Lagoon. Nauru 2007. Photo- Lorrie Graham (10679895855).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:গ্রামের পুকুর এবং আকাশের মেঘের দৃশ্য.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Explore the best of what Buada has to offer

When is the best time to go to Buada?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Parliament House

Explore the stunning Parliament House in Yaren, a remarkable blend of modern architecture and political history in Nauru.

Chinese Restaurant Buada

Experience the rich flavors of China at the charming Chinese Restaurant Buada in Arenibek, where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality.

Buada Lagoon

Discover the serene beauty of Buada Lagoon, a hidden gem in Nauru perfect for relaxation, photography, and cultural experiences.

Ubweno Buada

Experience the natural beauty and tranquil ambiance of Ubweno Buada Park in Arenibek, a perfect escape for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

Buada National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Buada National Park, a must-visit hiking destination in Arenibek.

Moqua Caves

Discover the hidden beauty and cultural significance of Moqua Caves in Yaren, a must-see natural attraction brimming with geological wonders.

Unmissable attractions to see

Buada Lagoon

Experience the serene beauty of Buada Lagoon in Arenibek, a tranquil retreat perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

Command Ridge

Discover breathtaking vistas at Command Ridge, a mountain peak offering tranquility, adventure, and a glimpse into nature's beauty.

Essential places to dine

OMG Sushi Restaurant

Experience exceptional sushi in Orro at OMG Sushi Restaurant – where fresh ingredients meet authentic Japanese flavors.

Star Kingdom

Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Star Kingdom in Boe - where every dish tells a story through flavor.

Chinese Restaurant Buada

Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Chinese Restaurant Buada in Arenibek, where every dish tells a story.

Florrowest Restaurant

Discover culinary excellence at Florrowest Restaurant in Boe, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in an inviting atmosphere.

Somewhere Else in Nauru

Discover an unforgettable dining experience at Somewhere Else in Nauru – where local flavors meet global cuisine in a charming atmosphere.

Moon River Restaurant

Experience the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine at Moon River Restaurant in Arijejen with stunning waterfront views.

Lucky Tigeress Yum Cha

Discover delightful dim sum and exquisite breakfast flavors at Lucky Tigeress Yum Cha in Arijejen – where every morning begins deliciously.

J’ RESTAURANT

Discover the vibrant flavors of China at J’ RESTAURANT in Arijejen, where authentic dishes meet stunning waterfront views.

Gabab Restaurant

Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Gabab Restaurant in Boe - where every dish tells a story.

Fortuna Cantonese Restaurant

Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at Fortuna Cantonese Restaurant in Yaren - where traditional flavors meet exceptional service.

Golden Bridge Restaurant

Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Golden Bridge Restaurant in Yangor – where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

WangJiao Breakfast Restaurant

Experience authentic breakfast delights at WangJiao Breakfast Restaurant in Boe, where every bite celebrates local flavors and freshness.

Kasuo Restaurant

Experience authentic flavors at Kasuo Restaurant in Yangor, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity for an unforgettable dining adventure.

P&B restaurant

Experience the essence of Chinese cuisine at P&B Restaurant in Yangor – where every dish tells a story.

Coconut Tree Restaurant

Discover Coconut Tree Restaurant in Nibok for authentic Chinese flavors amidst a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Eigigu Supermarket

Explore the vibrant local culture and flavors at Eigigu Supermarket - your go-to grocery store in Boe, Nauru.

Pacific store

Experience the vibrant flavors of Nauru at Pacific Store, your go-to grocery destination in Nibok for local delights and essentials.

Vim No.1 Store

Discover local flavors and essentials at Vim No.1 Store in Arijejen, Nauru - your gateway to authentic Nauruan products.

Elizabeth's Garden

Explore the unique local crafts and gifts at Elizabeth's Garden, a charming store in Boe offering friendly service and a delightful shopping experience.

Sunset Corner Enterprise

Discover the charm of Borderline at Sunset Corner Enterprise, your essential stop for local goods and unique souvenirs amidst your travels.

Pick n Save

Explore Pick n Save in Yaren for local snacks and everyday essentials, capturing the essence of Nauru's vibrant culture.

Aredetõ Store

Explore Arenibek with ease at Aredetõ Store, your go-to convenience stop for local goods and essentials.

Halo Store

Explore local culture and find unique souvenirs at Halo Store, the heart of Arenibek's shopping scene.

Abwan Warehouse

Explore Abwan Warehouse in Nibok for unique home goods and local craftsmanship that captures the essence of Arijejen's culture.

Paradise

Explore a world of fashion at Paradise, the perfect clothing store in Boe for unique styles and local flair.

Turtle Shop (Food and Drinks)

Discover the delightful Turtle Shop in Nibok, where exceptional coffee and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

Naoero Central

Explore Naoero Central in Arijejen for local flavors and essential supplies, a must-visit convenience store for every traveler in Nauru.

Florrowest Store

Explore Florrowest Store in Boe for an authentic shopping experience, offering a wide range of home goods and local crafts that reflect the island's charm.

RJ Store

Explore RJ Store in Arenibek for unique local goods, authentic souvenirs, and a taste of the island's vibrant culture.

ShanEve’s Retail Shop

Explore the local charm of ShanEve’s Retail Shop in Yangor, where convenience meets cultural authenticity for an unforgettable shopping experience.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Jules On The Deck

Experience the lively atmosphere and stunning views at Jules On The Deck, the perfect bar for relaxation and entertainment in Nibok.

Buada Lagoon

Explore the serene beauty of Buada Lagoon in Arenibek, a hidden paradise offering relaxation, adventure, and vibrant marine life.

Chinese Restaurant Buada

Experience the best of authentic Chinese cuisine at Chinese Restaurant Buada in Arenibek, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

Florrowest Restaurant

Discover the delicious flavors of Boe at Florrowest Restaurant, where fresh, local ingredients meet warm hospitality.

Pick n Save

Experience the vibrant essence of Nauru at Pick n Save, your go-to general store for local products and unique souvenirs in Yaren.

Golden Bridge Restaurant

Savor authentic Chinese cuisine in Yangor, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor at Golden Bridge Restaurant.

Milk Bar

Experience the delightful flavors of Milk Bar in Yangor, where refreshing milk-based beverages await in a cozy atmosphere.

Buada National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Buada National Park, a hiking paradise for nature lovers.

Angel Grog Bar

Explore the lively nightlife of Yaren at Angel Grog Bar, where great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await you.

With Eve

Local Phrases

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Buada. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloIaorana
  [YOW-rah-nah]
- GoodbyeKaore
  [KOW-reh]
- YesE
  [EH]
- NoAere
  [AH-reh]
- Please/You're welcomeKia orana
  [KEE-ah oh-rah-nah]
- Thank youMauruuru
  [Mah-roo-roo]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [Pahr-dohn]
- How are you?Aita pe?a koe?
  [EYE-tah PEH-ah koh-eh?]
- Fine. And you?Maitai. E koe?
  [MAI-tai. EH koh-eh?]
- Do you speak English?K?re koe e k?rer? i te reo?
  [KOH-reh koh-eh eh koh-reh-ROH ee teh REH-oh?]
- I don't understandKaore au e aroha atu
  [KOW-reh oh AH-roh-hah AH-too]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE manako au e kite i te mena, ?n?ri
  [EH mah-NAH-koh oh eh KEE-teh ee teh MEH-nah, AH-nee-ree]
- I don't eat meatKaore au e kai k?ua
  [KOW-reh oh eh KAI KOO-ah]
- Cheers!Tia maitai!
  [TEE-ah MAI-tai]
- I would like to pay, pleaseE manako au e utu, ?n?ri
  [EH mah-NAH-koh oh eh OO-too, AH-nee-ree]
- Help!Awhina!
  [AH-fee-nah]
- Go away!Haere atu!
  [HIGH-reh AH-too]
- Call the Police!Karanga ki te P?rihi!
  [Kah-RAH-ngah kee teh PEH-ree-hee]
- Call a doctor!Karanga ki te rata!
  [Kah-RAH-ngah kee teh RAH-tah]
- I'm lostAu i te ngaro
  [AH-oo ee teh NGAH-roh]
- I'm illAu e mate
  [AH-oo eh MAH-teh]
- I'd like to buy...E manako au e hoko...
  [EH mah-NAH-koh oh eh HOH-koh]
- I'm just lookingE aroha atu au e titiro ?n?ri
  [EH ah-roh-hah AH-too oh eh tee-TEE-roh AH-nee-ree]
- How much is it?E hia ta?ra?
  [EH HEE-ah TAH-rah]
- That's too expensiveTino peni
  [TEE-noh PEH-nee]
- Can you lower the price?K?re koe e raro i te ta?ra?
  [KOH-reh koh-eh eh RAH-roh ee teh TAH-rah]
- What time is it?He aha te w?hanga?
  [HEH AH-hah teh WOH-hahng-ah]
- It's one o'clockKotahi karaka
  [KOH-tah-hee kah-RAH-kah]
- Half past (10)Tekau me te toru
  [TEH-kow meh teh TOH-roo]
- MorningAt?rua
  [AH-too-roo-ah]
- AfternoonApop?ra
  [AH-poh-POH-rah]
- EveningAhiahi
  [AH-hee-AH-hee]
- Yesterday?nei
  [AH-neh-ee]
- TodayInei
  [EE-neh-ee]
- TomorrowAp?po
  [AH-poh-poh]
- 1Tahi
  [TAH-hee]
- 2Rua
  [ROO-ah]
- 3Toru
  [TOH-roo]
- 4Wh?
  [FAH]
- 5Rima
  [REE-mah]
- 6Ono
  [OH-noh]
- 7Whitu
  [FEE-too]
- 8Waru
  [WAH-roo]
- 9Iwa
  [EE-wah]
- 10Tekau
  [TEH-kow]
- Where's a/the...?Kei hea te...?
  [KAY HAY-ah teh]
- What's the address?He aha te w?hitu?
  [HEH AH-hah teh WOH-hee-too]
- Can you show me (on the map)?K?re koe e whakaatu mai ki ahau (i te mahere)?
  [KOH-reh koh-eh eh fah-KAH-too my kee AH-how (ee teh mah-HEH-reh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Ahea te p? heke?
  [AH-heh-ah teh poh HEH-keh]
- A ticket (to ....)He tiki (ki ....)
  [HEH TEE-kee (kee)]

History of Buada

The history of Buada, like the rest of Nauru, begins with its earliest settlers, the Polynesians. These early inhabitants are believed to have settled on the island over 3,000 years ago. They brought with them advanced fishing techniques and profound navigational skills, forming the foundation of the island's culture.
Buada, like other districts in Nauru, was traditionally organized into matrilineal clans. Each clan had its own customs, traditions, and leadership structures, which were integral to maintaining social order and cultural heritage. The elders played a significant role in decision-making and preserving oral histories.
In the late 19th century, Nauru, including Buada, came under colonial rule. Initially annexed by Germany in 1888, the island later fell under Australian administration after World War I. The colonial period brought significant changes, including the introduction of Christianity and the exploitation of phosphate resources.
The discovery of phosphate in the early 20th century marked a turning point for Buada and the rest of Nauru. The island's phosphate deposits, rich in quality, were heavily mined by colonial powers, leading to economic transformations but also environmental degradation. The local community faced displacement and disruption due to mining activities.
During World War II, Nauru was occupied by Japanese forces. Buada, like other parts of the island, experienced hardship and deprivation. The local population faced forced labor and food shortages, and many were relocated to other islands. The war left lasting scars on the community.
Nauru gained independence in 1968, and Buada, as part of the newly sovereign nation, embarked on a journey of self-determination. The post-independence era saw efforts to rebuild the local economy and infrastructure, with a focus on addressing the environmental impacts of phosphate mining and rediscovering cultural heritage.
At the heart of Buada District lies Buada Lagoon, a freshwater lagoon that has been central to the community for generations. The lagoon is not only a vital water source but also a cultural and spiritual symbol. It has been the site of traditional practices and gatherings, reflecting the deep connection between the people and their natural environment.
Today, Buada is a vibrant community that blends traditional practices with modern influences. The district is known for its lush vegetation and agricultural activities, particularly the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. Community events, local crafts, and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage continue to define life in Buada.

Buada Essentials

Nauru is a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, and the only airport is Nauru International Airport (INU). There are limited international flights, primarily connecting Nauru with Brisbane, Australia, and some other Pacific islands. Upon arrival at Nauru International Airport, Buada District is just a short drive away. Taxis and car rentals are available at the airport for your convenience.
Transportation in Buada is relatively straightforward due to the small size of Nauru. Most places within Buada are accessible by walking or cycling. Taxis are available and are a common mode of transport. Car rentals can also be arranged if you prefer more independence. There is no public bus service in Nauru, so plan accordingly.
The official currency of Nauru is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash for most transactions. There are limited ATMs on the island, so ensure you withdraw enough cash before traveling to Buada. Larger hotels and some stores may accept credit cards, but this is not guaranteed.
Buada is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in public areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance, 111 for fire emergencies, and 112 for medical emergencies. Buada has a local police station and medical facilities. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: There is no formal public transport system; taxis and walking are common. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly nod or handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Buada like a local, visit the Buada Lagoon, where you can enjoy the serene environment and interact with locals. Engage with residents, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their community. Don't miss trying local food specialties, such as fresh seafood and traditional Nauruan dishes. For a unique experience, participate in community events or festivals if your visit coincides with any.

Buada: The Heart of Nauru's Hidden Paradise

Know before you go