Things to Do in Tarawa in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Tarawa
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- December sits right in the wet season transition period, which actually means you get dramatic cloud formations and spectacular sunsets over the lagoon - the kind of light that makes photography worthwhile. Rain typically arrives in short, intense bursts rather than all-day drizzle, so you're not stuck indoors.
- The humidity at 70% is genuinely lower than the peak wet season months (February-April hit 80%+), making outdoor activities more comfortable. You'll still sweat, but it's the kind where a quick swim actually refreshes you rather than feeling pointless.
- December is shoulder season for the handful of tourists who visit Tarawa, meaning you'll have beaches and historical sites essentially to yourself. The WWII relics at Betio and Red Beach don't have crowds - you might spend an hour at a pillbox without seeing another person.
- Fishing conditions are excellent in December as the trade winds haven't fully kicked in yet. The lagoon stays relatively calm, and locals report good catches of trevally and bonefish. Charter boats typically cost AUD 400-600 for half-day trips, and availability is better than the drier months when everyone wants to go out.
Considerations
- Those 10 rainy days mean roughly one-third of your trip will involve working around downpours. They're intense - 211 mm (8.3 inches) doesn't sound like much until you're watching roads flood in 20 minutes. Plan indoor alternatives and don't book activities you can't reschedule.
- December is still technically wet season, so expect some humidity-related discomfort. Clothes don't dry overnight, electronics need protection from moisture, and that sticky feeling becomes your baseline. If you need perfectly dry conditions, wait until June-September.
- Flight connections through Fiji or Brisbane can be disrupted by weather systems moving through the region in December. Nadi gets cyclone fringe effects, and delays of 12-24 hours aren't uncommon. Build buffer days if you have tight international connections.
Best Activities in December
Lagoon snorkeling and swimming spots
The lagoon temperature sits around 28-29°C (82-84°F) in December, which is genuinely comfortable for extended time in the water. Visibility averages 15-20 m (49-66 ft) between rain events, and the coral gardens near Betio and around the causeway system are accessible without boats. December's variable weather actually works in your favor - overcast days reduce glare and make it easier to spot fish. The UV index of 8 means you'll burn through water, so reef-safe SPF 50+ is non-negotiable.
WWII historical site exploration
December's lower tourist numbers mean you can explore Betio's concentration of WWII relics without crowds - the Japanese bunkers, coastal guns, and the remains at Red Beach are atmospheric in the variable light. Morning visits (7-10am) avoid the worst heat, and the 70% humidity is manageable if you pace yourself. The Battle of Tarawa sites are spread across roughly 5 km (3.1 miles) of Betio, easily covered by bicycle or motorcycle taxi. Rain actually enhances the experience at certain sites - the concrete bunkers provide shelter and the wet conditions make the jungle encroachment more dramatic.
Traditional outrigger canoe experiences
December's calmer lagoon conditions (before the strong trade winds of mid-year) make this the ideal time to experience traditional outrigger sailing. Local canoe clubs are active in December preparing for the drier season races, and you can often arrange informal trips with fishermen heading out in early morning or late afternoon. The experience of sailing a traditional wa across the lagoon at sunrise is genuinely special - you're participating in navigation techniques that have worked for centuries. Expect to get wet, and don't bring electronics you can't afford to lose.
Village visits and traditional weaving demonstrations
December weather actually keeps more people in villages during midday hours, making it easier to observe daily life and traditional crafts. Women's weaving groups are typically active in the afternoons, working on pandanus mats and baskets in covered areas while rain passes through. The cultural protocol is important - always ask permission before entering villages, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), and expect to participate in tea or coconut sharing. This isn't performative tourism, it's genuine cultural exchange that requires patience and respect.
Bonefish flats fishing
December offers excellent bonefishing conditions as the flats around South Tarawa warm up and bonefish move into shallow feeding areas. The variable weather means you'll have windows of calm water with good visibility - essential for sight-fishing. Local guides know the tidal patterns and can position you on productive flats during the 2-3 hour windows when conditions align. This is technical, challenging fishing that requires patience, but landing a bonefish on the flats with traditional techniques is genuinely rewarding.
Local market and food exploration
The main market in Betio operates every morning (6am-11am) and December brings good variety of local produce - breadfruit, pandanus fruit, and fresh fish caught that morning. The covered market areas provide shelter during rain, and the experience of seeing how locals actually shop and eat is more valuable than any restaurant. Try the traditional dishes like palusami (taro leaves in coconut cream) and fried breadfruit from the small stalls. The humidity means food spoils quickly, so everything is genuinely fresh and prepared daily.
December Events & Festivals
Independence Day preparations
While Independence Day itself is July 12, December sees communities beginning practice for traditional dance and song competitions that happen throughout the year. You might encounter village groups rehearsing in the evenings - the distinctive Kiribati standing dances with their precise hand movements and chanted songs. If you're invited to watch, accept - it's a genuine cultural privilege. Don't expect polished performances, this is the working process.
Christmas church services and celebrations
Kiribati is deeply Christian, and Christmas services are significant community events. The Catholic and Protestant churches in Betio and Bairiki hold special services with traditional hymns sung in Gilbertese - the harmonies are remarkable. Christmas Day itself (December 25) sees family gatherings and traditional feasts, though this is private rather than tourist-oriented. Churches welcome respectful visitors to services, but dress conservatively and follow local protocols.