The Hermit Islands (1°30'S., 145°03'E.) are enclosed by a narrow barrier reef, which in most places is less than 1 mile wide. Several low islands lie on this reef and are covered with coconut palms. There are 17 islands within the lagoon, four of which are high and form a group at the center of the lagoon. All of these islands are wooded and reef fringed; the smaller islands are connected to the larger islands by reefs. Hills, ranging from about 111 to 244m high and separated by valleys and low, narrow isthmuses, are found on the two large islands. Margins of low and gently sloping ground are found around the hills. Coconut palms are found on this ground and also on the isthmuses. Steep slopes alternate with stretches of sandy beach, and in places, particularly around Luf Island, there is considerable mangrove along the shore.

Location