Sightseeing in Kiribati
Including Banaba Island, Kiritimati (Christmas Island), and Tarawa WWII Battle Sites. On the map.
The vibe
Wandering the narrow coral atolls feels wonderfully remote, far removed from standard tourist sights and guided monuments. The dry season brings the most reliable sunshine for exploring the vast horizons and WWII relics scattered across the islands. You will mostly share the scenery with curious locals and local children rather than tour groups.
Banaba Island, Kiribati
Gilbert Islands
Banaba Island — Wikidata / Wikimedia Commons
Banaba Island is a remote raised coral island in Kiribati known for its dramatic topography, historic phosphate mining remnants, and striking panoramic coastal vistas. It offers unique sightseeing for travelers interested in isolated Pacific history and rugged landscapes.
Access. Accessible via occasional field-trip vessels or chartered boat services from Tarawa, though transport schedules are highly limited.
Notes. Visiting requires advance planning due to extreme isolation and limited tourist infrastructure.
Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Kiribati
Line Islands
David Rolla / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
Kiritimati, the largest coral atoll in the world, offers vast landscapes, unique WWII relics, and sweeping ocean horizons. Travelers visit to explore its expansive salt flats, rich birdlife, and remote equatorial scenery.
Access. Reached via scheduled international flights operating into Cassidy International Airport on the island.
Notes. Accommodations are basic; visitors should prepare for remote island conditions.
Tarawa WWII Battle Sites, South Tarawa
Gilbert Islands
Enzino / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The islets of South Tarawa bear the historic scars of the pivotal Battle of Tarawa, featuring rusting coastal defense guns, bunkers, and memorials scattered along the shores. It is a profound sightseeing destination for military history enthusiasts.
Access. Easily reached via local transport and taxis across South Tarawa, connected by causeways.
Notes. Many relics are located on public beaches and near villages; visitors should respect local property.