Kiribati is a remote Pacific island nation consisting of 33 coral atolls scattered across the equator. Known for pristine beaches, world-class diving, significant WWII history sites, and being among the first places on Earth to see the sunrise, this tropical paradise offers an authentic, unhurried island experience far from mass tourism.
Top day trips
Handpicked excursions within easy reach.
North Tarawa Buariki Village
Highlights: Pristine, undeveloped Pacific beaches with no footprints · Traditional I-Kiribati village life with thatched mwaneaba meeting house · Excellent snorkeling on undisturbed coral reefs · Outrigger canoe fishing with local families · Birdwatching for frigatebirds, reef herons, and shorebirds
Abaiang Atoll
Highlights: Traditional Gilbert Island village culture largely unchanged · Tebontebike Church — one of the oldest in the Gilbert Islands · Pristine reef snorkeling and beach walks · Freshwater swimming hole unique in the atolls · Local handicrafts — pandanus weavings and shell jewelry
Betio WWII Heritage Full Day
Highlights: Japanese 8-inch naval guns still in position near the causeway · Admiral Shibasaki's command bunker in church compound · Red Beach American landing site with information plaques · Hidden residential bunkers found only with local guide · Japanese seaplane ramp on lagoon side · Betio American Memorial monument
Bikenibeu Cultural and Museum Half Day
Highlights: Te Umanibong National Cultural Museum with shark-tooth weapons and outrigger canoes · Traditional mwaneaba meeting house — the centerpiece of I-Kiribati social life · Bonriki Ocean Beach for a swim after the museum (15-minute walk east) · Sacred Heart Cathedral nearby for architecture and choir practice
South Tarawa Full Causeway Cycle
Highlights: Panoramic lagoon and ocean views from multiple causeways · Morning fishing activity at Betio Wharf (depart 5:30 AM) · Betio Market for fresh tropical produce · Ambo Parliament Building and mangrove birdwatching · Sacred Heart Cathedral at Teaoraereke · Te Umanibong Museum at Bikenibeu · Bonriki Ocean Beach for finishing swim
Trips by distance
How far you can go in a day.
Getting there
Transport options for day trips.
- Tours
- Guided day trips from $50-80 AUD through Kiribati Tourism Office or hotel desks. Includes WWII guided tours and cultural half-day packages.
- Private
- Private boat charter from $40-80 AUD per trip for North Tarawa access. Private vehicles with drivers available from hotels at $50-80 AUD/day.
- Public
- Local buses ($0.50-1 AUD) serve South Tarawa destinations. MV Nei Matangare and other ferries serve Abaiang ($15-20 AUD, irregular schedule). Air Kiribati serves outer islands.
- Rental
- Bicycle rental $5-10 AUD/day (best for South Tarawa). Motorcycle rental $20-30 AUD/day. Car rental $50-80 AUD/day (very limited availability).
Day trip tips
Make the most of your excursions.
For North Tarawa boat trips, start no later than 8AM to maximise time on the island and return before afternoon seas pick up
Confirm all ferry and Air Kiribati schedules locally at least one day in advance — schedules change frequently and listings online are unreliable
Bring all food, water, and snorkelling gear for North Tarawa day trips — nothing is available for purchase there
The WWII sites in Betio are best explored with a local guide — hire one through your hotel for $30-50 for a half-day tour
Abaiang ferry trips require an early start from Betio Wharf — confirm exact departure time with the operator the day before