Abaiang Atoll

Abaiang Atoll has an authentic immersion into the i-Kiribati way of life, where time seems to slow down and traditions remain central to daily existence. Visitors are drawn to its peaceful atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the local communities. The island's social life revolves around the Maneaba, massive traditional meeting houses that stand as symbols of local heritage. The most striking landmark is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary in Koinawa, a historic structure that provides a unique architectural contrast to the surrounding tropical scenery. Nature enthusiasts will find the turquoise lagoon excellent for snorkeling and observing the animated marine life. The pristine sandy beaches and coconut groves offer a sense of seclusion and natural beauty that is rare in the modern world. Culinary experiences on Abaiang focus on fresh seafood, breadfruit, and coconut-based dishes prepared using traditional methods. Joining a community feast is a highlight for many travelers seeking local flavors. The best time to visit is during the drier months from April to October. Abaiang is accessible from the capital, Tarawa, via a short domestic flight or a boat journey across the water.

Nearby cities

Betio

Betio is the economic center of Kiribati, located in the southwest of Tarawa Atoll.

Bikenibeu

Bikenibeu is a significant settlement in the southeast of South Tarawa.

Teaoraereke

Teaoraereke is a populous village in South Tarawa.

Temwaiku

Temwaiku is a rapidly growing settlement at the eastern end of South Tarawa.

Eita

Eita is a village located in the center of South Tarawa.

South Tarawa

South Tarawa is the capital and most populous area of the Republic of Kiribati.

Bairiki

Bairiki is the administrative center of South Tarawa.

Bairiki Business District

Bairiki serves as the economic and administrative center of South Tarawa, housing the country's main banks and government offices.

Bonriki

Bonriki is the easternmost village of South Tarawa and site of the international airport.

Tabwakea

Tabwakea is the largest settlement on Kiritimati, the world's largest coral island.

Banana

Banana is a village on Kiritimati island located right next to the Cassidy International Airport.

Marakei Atoll

Marakei is a unique, circular atoll famous for its closed lagoon and the 'Te Kabaia' welcoming rituals at four sacred shrines.

Rawannawi

Rawannawi is the largest settlement on the Marakei atoll.

Abemama Atoll

Abemama is a historically significant atoll where the British protectorate was declared in 1892 and author Robert Louis Stevenson once li…

Poland

Poland is a small village on the Kiritimati atoll.

History & landmarks

Bonriki Plateau

The Bonriki area on Tarawa comprises one of the widest landmasses of the atoll.

Bonriki Airport Terminal

The terminal of Bonriki International Airport is the main gateway to Kiribati.

Betio Islet

Betio is a flat islet at the western end of Tarawa Atoll.

Maneaba ni Maungatabu

The Parliament Building of Kiribati is located in Ambo on South Tarawa.

Bairiki Independence Site

The central square in Bairiki where the independence of Kiribati from the United Kingdom was officially proclaimed in 1979.

Bairiki National Stadium

The stadium in Bairiki is the largest sporting venue in Kiribati.

Nature

Abaiang Lagoon

Abaiang Lagoon is an expansive, tranquil body of water in the northern Gilbert Islands, fringed by beautiful motus and coral reefs.

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Abaokoro Wetlands

The Abaokoro area in North Tarawa encompasses valuable wetlands crucial for the biodiversity of the Gilbert Islands.

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Tarawa Lagoon

Tarawa Lagoon is the centerpiece of Kiribati's main atoll.

More places

Bonriki Solar Farm

This photovoltaic facility near the airport is a cornerstone of Kiribati's efforts to reduce dependence on expensive diesel imports.

Red Beach Tarawa

The primary landing site for US Marines during Operation Galvanic in 1943, one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific theater.

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Betio Shipyard

The shipyard in South Tarawa is the central facility for the maintenance and repair of the national commercial and fishing fleet.

Betio Coast Defense Guns

These heavy Japanese coastal defense guns date back to World War II.

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Japanese Command Bunker

This massive concrete bunker served as the Japanese command center in 1943.

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U.S. Marine Memorial

This memorial honors the soldiers of the U.S.

Australian War Memorial

This memorial on Betio honors the Australian coastwatchers who were executed during World War II.

Kiribati Fish Limited Facility

This modern industrial facility in Betio processes tuna for export and is a major joint venture to increase local value addition.