When the full moon rises high over the mangroves in Yap, it shines down on Colonia Town like a heavenly beacon. And in nature’s spotlight, divers gather at the outdoor pubs to share, what else: beer, food and dive stories. They talk about the ...

Live-aboard dive vessel in Truk Lagoon (Chuuk), Federated States of Micronesia.

These islands offer Pacific diving at its best, including World War II wrecks, lush coral gardens and the famed Rock Islands. For more on fabulous scuba diving in Micronesia — Palau, Chuuk Lagoon, Guam, Yap, Kosrae, Pohnpei — visit scubadiving.com

World's first manta ray protected area.

Chuuk Lagoon is home to nearly 60 world-class wrecks.

More than half a century ago, tens of thousands of men paid the ultimate sacrifice in the struggle over Micronesia's islands. Today, wreck divers pay homage in the sacred sunken graveyards of Guam and Palau.

Photography by Nick Lucey

The islands of Kosrae and Pohnpei are a dive traveler's dream, complete with eerie ruins, a surreal blue hole and mind-numbing rituals. Plus: an insider's guide to unforgettable island-hopping.

The western Pacific is a dream destination. Learn how to make it reality. Start with Palau, Yap and Truk. But don't stop there--we'll show you the best of the exotic western Pacific.