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.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Battle of Tarawa WWII Sites
History-engaged children and teenagers find the massive Japanese guns, concrete bunkers, and landing beaches fascinating. A local guide brings the battle to life with age-appropriate explanations. Bring the children's energy for a hands-on history lesson that no classroom can match.
Duration: 3-4 hours
North Tarawa Snorkelling Day Trip
A speedboat trip to pristine Buariki beaches on North Tarawa where children can snorkel over undisturbed coral reefs teeming with colourful fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks (harmless blacktips). The pristine water and clean beach make it the most exciting family day in Kiribati.
Duration: Full day
Te Umanibong Cultural Museum
The national museum's displays of shark-tooth weapons, outrigger canoe models, traditional tools, and WWII artefacts captivate children who engage with physical history. Staff are friendly and informative. A good air-conditioned break from the midday heat.
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Betio Market Morning Visit
A sensory adventure for children — the colours of tropical fruit, the enormous fresh tuna laid out by fishermen, the sounds and smells of an authentic Pacific market. Buy fresh fruit and coconuts for a healthy morning snack while introducing children to I-Kiribati daily life.
Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Traditional Fishing with Locals
Join local fishermen for traditional hand-line fishing from outrigger canoes or small boats on the lagoon. Children are enthusiastic participants and catching fish is thrilling. The cultural exchange with I-Kiribati fishermen provides lasting memories of authentic Pacific island life.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Tabwakea Beach Swimming and Beach Play
The ocean-side beach at Tabwakea, with its iconic leaning coconut palms and clear turquoise water, is perfect for family beach time. The gradual sandy entry and shallow water near shore make it suitable for younger children with parental supervision.
Duration: 2-4 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Fema Lodge
South Tarawa's most reliable and comfortable property with consistent air conditioning, hot water, and quality meals. Family rooms accommodate parents and children comfortably. The friendly, professional service makes it the safest choice for families unfamiliar with Kiribati.
Family features: Family rooms available, good restaurant with varied menu including kid-friendly options, reliable air conditioning, airport transfer service
Mary's Motel
A solid mid-range choice for families in central Bairiki with a restaurant serving both local and international dishes to accommodate picky young eaters. The central location makes getting around South Tarawa easy.
Family features: Family rooms, restaurant with burgers and pasta alongside local food, central Bairiki location, helpful staff
Nemat Resort, North Tarawa
For families seeking a beach resort experience, Nemat on North Tarawa offers pristine beaches, snorkelling direct from the beach, and traditional bungalows in a spectacular natural setting. Best for families with older children (8+) who can manage a boat ride to get there.
Family features: Beachfront location, direct snorkelling access, traditional bungalows, fishing and snorkelling equipment, meals included
The George Hotel
Conveniently located in Betio near the WWII sites, The George Hotel offers family-friendly rooms at mid-range prices with a restaurant serving international and local food. Good base for history-focused family visits.
Family features: Family rooms, restaurant with international options, close to WWII sites, helpful local staff
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Mary's Motel Restaurant and The George Hotel Restaurant have the most child-friendly menus including burgers, pasta, and chicken dishes alongside local options
Chatterbox Cafe in Bikenibeu is a great family lunch stop with sandwiches, smoothies, and a clean air-conditioned environment
Fresh young coconuts ($1 from roadside vendors) are the perfect family drink — nutritious, naturally sweet, and uniquely Pacific
Betio Night Market is a fun family evening activity — children enjoy the street food sampling and atmosphere though ensure they try low-risk foods (fried bananas, breadfruit chips)
Bring a small supply of familiar snacks from home for children with limited food adventurousness — local shops stock basics but variety is very limited
Children's menus don't formally exist in Kiribati — restaurants are generally flexible about smaller portions or simple preparations on request
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Bring all children's medications, first aid supplies, and prescription medicines from home — pharmacy options in Kiribati are extremely limited
Strong sun protection is critical: SPF 50+ sunscreen, wide-brim hats, and rash guards for swimming — the equatorial sun burns very quickly
Always supervise children swimming — rip currents can be strong even close to shore, and there are no lifeguards at any beach in Kiribati
Never allow children to swim in South Tarawa lagoon — it is severely polluted; only ocean-side beaches are safe
Pre-trip education makes WWII sites far more meaningful for children — children's books on the Pacific War and appropriate age resources enhance the experience
Ensure comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage — Kiribati's medical facilities are very limited for serious conditions