The Marshall Islands are one of the planet’s most remote island countries, but even within ‘remote’ one can find places even further removed from people. And Eneko Island is the perfect example. For reference the Marshall Islands are closer to Papua New Guinea than Hawaii, are slightly north of the equator and are located west of the international date line. Nonstop flights are available from Honolulu, Guam and Kiribati. Unless you live in these places, there are no other non-stop flights.
Conveniently, the owners of Eneko Island also own Robert Reimers Hotel, one of the more affordable places to stay on the atoll. Trips can be arranged through the reception counter at the hotel. This is on the north part of Majuro Atoll about a 30-minute drive from the international airport.
Visitors will be treated to beautiful aqua-marine waters on the approximately 30-minute ride to the island. Ask the captain to stop on the way or return to snorkel around a submerged airplane or in much deeper waters nearby, a helicopter. Apparently, the owner of a nearby island sunk these aircraft to try and create a habitat for fish and coral.
Most visitors leave in the early morning and return by mid to late afternoon with the pickup time a group decision made with the boat captain upon arrival at Eneko Island. There is basic lodging on the island, but no running fresh water or electricity and visitors must bring their own food. Compared to the very expensive prices of other places to stay on Marshall Islands, a stay here is inexpensive.
The island offers picturesque white sand beaches and a whole lot of leisure time. Its best enjoyed with a large towel, drinks, snacks, a snorkel and a good book.
The private Bikendrik Island is located next to Eneko Island. We stopped to drop off a passenger who was just going for the day and for lunch and were greeted by the island’s owner, Suzanne and her staff. Suzanne is the wife of former rocket pioneer Lutz Kayser.
Lutz passed away on Bikendrik Island in 2017. Suzanne continues to run the small resort featuring several rooms with a maximum occupancy of 3 couples. Prices start at around $1000/night. We heard that Suzanne has plenty of incredible stories to tell and a house full of beautiful paintings including originals by Picasso, Matisse and a Gaugin as well as a possible painting by Hitler.
Very informative, can’t wait to explore..
Santosh – hope you can visit the Marshall Islands. Its very remote!