Things to Do in Tarawa

About Tarawa

Tarawa emerges from the vast Pacific like a delicate coral necklace, its thin strips of land embracing turquoise lagoons with impressive intimacy. This remote atoll in Kiribati pulses with a rhythm entirely its own—where time moves with the tide rather than the clock, and the horizon stretches endlessly in every direction. Here, traditional Micronesian culture flourishes alongside poignant reminders of World War II history, creating a destination that touches both heart and soul. The warmth of the I-Kiribati people radiates as brilliantly as the equatorial sun, welcoming visitors into a world where community gatherings unfold on pristine beaches and ancient fishing techniques are passed down through generations. Tarawa challenges conventional travel expectations, offering instead an authentic immersion into Pacific island life where simplicity becomes luxury, and the constant whisper of ocean waves provides life's soundtrack. This is not merely a destination to visit, but a place to truly experience—where every sunset paints the sky in impossible colors and every moment feels suspended in tropical tranquility.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book domestic flights between South and North Tarawa well in advance through Air Kiribati, as schedules are limited and weather-dependent. Rent bicycles or walk for local transport—distances are short but bring sun protection. Shared minibuses operate irregularly between villages.

Money: Bring Australian dollars in cash—ATMs are extremely limited and credit cards rarely accepted outside major hotels. Exchange money at ANZ Bank in Bikenibeu. Budget $50-80 USD daily for basic expenses including meals and local transport.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting villages or maneaba (meeting houses). Always ask permission before photographing people. Remove shoes when entering homes and participate respectfully in traditional welcome ceremonies involving coconut water sharing.

Food Safety: Stick to freshly prepared local fish, coconut-based dishes, and tropical fruits from reputable sources. Avoid raw shellfish and drink bottled or properly boiled water. Try traditional dishes like te bua (coconut crab) at established local restaurants rather than street vendors.

When to Visit

Tarawa enjoys a tropical marine climate year-round with temperatures consistently between 26-32°C (79-90°F). The dry season (April-October) offers the most comfortable conditions with lower humidity, minimal rainfall (50-100mm monthly), and steady trade winds. This period sees peak tourism with accommodation prices 20-30% higher than off-season rates. The wet season (November-March) brings higher humidity, frequent but brief tropical showers (200-400mm monthly), and occasional storms, though temperatures remain pleasant. Budget travelers benefit from 25-40% lower accommodation costs during these months. May through September represents the sweet spot for most visitors, offering optimal weather with moderate pricing. Cultural enthusiasts should time visits around Te Maeva (Independence Day, July 12th) featuring traditional dancing, canoe races, and island-wide celebrations, or Gospel Day (second Monday in May) showcasing powerful community singing traditions. Diving and fishing enthusiasts will find excellent conditions year-round, though visibility peaks during drier months. Travelers seeking solitude should visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, October-November) when weather remains favorable but crowds thin considerably. Climate change considerations make booking flexible arrangements advisable, as weather patterns can shift unexpectedly.