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Australian War Memorial
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monument
The Australian War Memorial on Betio Island stands as a solemn tribute to the coastwatchers who were executed during the Japanese occupation in World War II. In October 1942, 17 Australians and 5 New Zealanders were captured and killed by Japanese forces after serving as vital informants for the Allies. These brave men, often operating in isolation, monitored enemy naval and air movements across the vast Pacific islands. The memorial consists of bronze plaques mounted on a concrete base, listing the names of the fallen near the very site where the executions took place. Located within walking distance of the historic landing beaches of the Battle of Tarawa, the site features a poignant reminder of the human cost of the conflict. It remains a focal point for official commemorative services, drawing veterans' families and government representatives who come to honor the legacy of those who sacrificed their lives for the Allied cause in the Central Pacific.
- Location: Kiribati
- Top sights: SDA Betio Church · The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints · St. Paul's Millennium Church
- Nearby: Bairiki Business District (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 212 | 157 | 220 | 171 | 103 | 136 | 119 | 107 | 92 | 95 | 95 | 208 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Australian War Memorial on Betio is a public monument that can be visited anytime. It is located directly on the shoreline and is freely accessible.
Typical hours
As it is an outdoor memorial, there are no opening hours. Daytime visits are recommended to read the inscriptions.
Photography
Photography is expressly allowed; the monument with the sea in the background makes an impressive subject. Avoid blocking the commemorative plaques.
Time needed
A visit takes about 10-20 minutes to view the monument and read the plaques. Those exploring the entire Betio history trail should allow one hour.
Combine with
Betio is rich in World War II history; combine the visit with other memorials like the Japanese war monument and bunkers. A walk along the coast is worthwhile.
Getting there
The monument is on the Betio shoreline, about 500 meters from the ferry jetty. You can reach it on foot from the main road or by taxi.
Insider tip
Visit the monument early in the morning when the light is soft and the sea breeze is pleasantly cool. Read about the Australian coastwatchers' story beforehand to understand its significance.
Geography
Facts
- Erected in 2004
- Granite obelisk
- Inscription 'Lest We Forget'
- Located near Betio
- Annual ANZAC Day services
- Honors Australian soldiers
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Australian War Memorial (8)
St. Paul's Millennium Church
Church on Betio, consecrated for the millennium.
LDS CHURCH
Building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Betio.
marewen teriki
Beach on Betio, called Marewen Teriki.
mary's beach
Beach on Betio, known as Mary's Beach.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Australian memorial located?
It is located on Betio, South Tarawa, near other war memorials.
What does this memorial honor?
It honors the Australian coastwatchers who were executed by the Japanese in 1942.
Is entry free?
Yes, the memorial is open to the public and free to visit.
Are there parking facilities there?
You can park on the roadside nearby; there is no dedicated parking lot.
When should you visit the memorial?
Daytime is best to clearly read the inscriptions.
Australian War Memorial: where is it located?
Australian War Memorial is located in Kiribati.
Australian War Memorial: what is there to see?
Highlights include SDA Betio Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, St. Paul's Millennium Church.
Australian War Memorial: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Australian War Memorial: why is it worth visiting?
The Australian War Memorial on Betio Island stands as a solemn tribute to the coastwatchers who were executed during the Japanese occupation in World War II.
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