Diving
Yap is famous for its clear waters where schools of tuna, dolphins and reef fish are found in abundance. Observing the greatly varied marine life has become a must for divers around the planet. While the clear waters and sheer dropoffs certainly describe Yap's diving, one fact stands above the rest. Yap is the world's foremost destination for seeing manta rays up close and personal. Unafraid of their human guests, the Mantas pass almost close enough to touch, and stare curiously at you. There is no other place on earth where they can be seen on such a consistent basis year round. This fact has catapulted Yap to the top on all lists of the world's finest diving attractions. For dive travellers looking to optimise their Manta encounters they should plan their trips to coincide with the mating season between the months of December and April.

Although Yap is often considered predominantly as a dive destination a whole spectrum of non-diving activities is available to visitors.

Flora & Fauna
Yap is covered with rain forests and has tropical flowers in bloom year round. From sweet-smelling plumeria to vivid red and pink hibiscus to delicate spider lilies, Yap is a botanical treasure-trove. Before roads and vehicles, Yapese traversed their island on well-maintained stone paths through the jungles; many of which still exist today. For the active person, there’s plenty to do on land and in the ocean. Yap’s rolling hills, lush vegetation, and unspoiled beaches are home to a wealth of wildlife.

Further Yap offers the building Ornithologist with a unique chance to encounter some of the most alluring of Pacific bird species. Egrets, Honey Eaters, Crab Eaters and more are some of the resident species found in Yap. For the truly ambitious a walk along one of the many trails that criss cross the island could result in a rare sighting of the islands most elusive and endemic of species, the Yap Monarch. These black and white birds can sometimes be encountered in pairs as they tend their nests. A keen eye and patience is required. Superb guides can be arranged via the front desks of most hotels.

Fishing
Fishing in Yap is world class. For the serious fisherman or simply for those interested in trying their luck.  From trolling the deeper waters to casting, or “whipping” the reef shallows a whole host of game fish await the intrepid hunter. Wahoo, Tuna, Rainbow Runners and huge Barracudas are caught on a regular basis whilst trolling. For those seeking a faster pace and the chance to wrestle a truly magnificent fish the thrill of “whipping” the reef awaits. Giant Trevally put up an incredible fight and reduce even the strongest arms to Jelly. Fishing trips can be arranged via most Hotel facilities.

Kayaking
One of the most important natural environments in Yap is best explored by Ocean kayak. The verdant mangrove systems serve as a natural barrier against storms as well as offering save haven for a plethora of juvenile reef fish species. The Yapese also, by tradition, rely heavily on some of the plants and toots found in the dense mangrove systems for medicinal purposes. Superb guides are available for trips through these amazing natural habitats. Keep a keen eye out fro Fruit Bats, Fiddler Crabs, Monitor Lizards and the ever elusive Yap Monarch. Insect repellant is a must.

Hiking
Hiking in Yap offers a wonderful opportunity for visitors to witness the incredible splendour of the island. The available trails are relatively easy as the island has a maximum elevation of some 700 ft. Many of the villages on the island are connected via a complex system of stone paths that offer both shade and easy walking routes. Breathtaking vistas over the surrounding lagoon whilst enveloped in true historical vegetation offers hikers a true sense of being at one with the incredible nature of the island.

Surfing
When the surfs up Yap offers itself as a great backdrop as a testing ground for the hardiest of wave riders. The surfing activities on Yap are run by Stone Money Surf which is located on one of the islands most picturesque beach settings. The channel entrances are the sites most visited and can, at times, offer conditions suited to those with a high level of competence. The lodge itself is situated on the north east coast of the island. With six locally styled thatch cottages, running water and electricity the lodge is the ideal place to kick back, relax and wait for those waves to start rolling in.

Island Tours
For those non diving days there is no better way to see the island than signing up for a guided tour around this unique paradise. These tours can be arranged via all hotel and resort facilities on the island. From breathtaking views across the surrounding lagoons to war wreckages strewn across the site of the old airport. To the north of the island visitors can stroll around the Bechyal cultural center located in an area of outstanding beauty. Walking down ancient stone paths lined with huge discs of stone money whilst listening to the surrounding nature is an intoxicating experience. The spectacle of the setting sun rounds of this truly unique experience.

Village Tour
Of all the possible activities and tours available on the island the Cultural Village tour is a definite must see. Taking place in the village of Kaday guests are made to feel at home in a traditional village setting. Treated to a spectacle of dancing, hand weaving and offered local produce to sample gives spectators the chance to experience first hand the ways and traditions of the Yapese people. Towards the end of the tour one of the boys of the village scales one of the many Betel nut trees to collect nuts for the spectators to try.

Visiting Outer Islands
A trip to the Outer Islands is sure to be a memorable experience but the logistics are complicated and arrangements should be made at least six months in advance. Pacific Missionary Aviation operates regularly scheduled flights between the Yap Island and Ulithi Atoll, Fais Island and Woleai. The Yap State Government Sea Transportation Office operates passenger and cargo service to all of Yap's outer islands on a monthly basis. The ship offers limited cabin accommodations and deck space for the hardy visitor. Visits to Yap’s pristine outer islands can be arranged in advance.