Mystery Island got its name when it was used as an airstrip by the Allies during WWII. The island's tiny size and remote location prevented the Japanese from figuring out where the planes where coming from, and so it was called the mystery island.
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According to local legend, Mystery Island was considered sacred and only used for certain ceremonial purposes. Folklore also suggests it was haunted by spirits although today it is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
Cruise ships anchor off Anelghowhat bay on the coastline of Aneityum Island. Passengers are tendered into the small quay on the north side of Mystery Island. Local people, who live in Anelghowhat village on Aneityum, come over on cruise ship days to welcome passengers, and operate the facilities.
The island gained wide media and public attention in November 2012 when the R/V Southern Surveyor, an Australian research ship, passed through the area and undiscovered it. The island was quickly removed from many maps and data sets, including those of the National Geographic Society and Google Maps.