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Coast Watchers Memorial
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The Coast Watchers Memorial in Betio, on Tarawa Atoll, stands as a poignant reminder of the courage and sacrifice of 22 men during World War II. This group, composed of New Zealand soldiers and British civilians, operated as part of a clandestine Allied intelligence network. Their mission was to observe and report on the movements of the Japanese navy and air force in the Pacific, an invaluable contribution to the Allied war effort. Following the Japanese invasion of the Gilbert Islands, they were captured. In October 1942, shortly before the arrival of American forces, all 22 men were executed by Japanese troops on Betio. The memorial, erected near the site of the execution, honors their memory. It is a simple yet dignified place, inviting visitors to reflect on the brutal realities of war and the quiet heroism of those who gave their lives for freedom. Annual remembrance ceremonies keep the memory of this tragic episode in the Pacific War's history alive.
- Location: Kiribati
- Top sights: marewen teriki · Beniera Uniting Church · Kaotitaeka Church
- Nearby: Bairiki Business District (7 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 Coast Watchers Memorial in Betio is an outdoor monument that can be visited at any time. It is located on a historic site and is accessible without an entrance fee; visitors can view the commemorative plaques and the surrounding memorial grounds.
Typical hours
Since it is an outdoor monument, there are no fixed opening hours. Most visitors come during daytime, but the site is also accessible in the evening; there are no gates or closing times.
Photography
Photography is allowed and encouraged to capture the memorial and its surroundings. The plaques and the quiet atmosphere provide good subjects for memorable photos.
Time needed
Allow about 15 to 30 minutes to read the plaques and appreciate the significance of the site. The grounds are small, so the visit is short but allows for respectful reflection.
Combine with
The memorial can be combined with other WWII sites in Betio, such as the Japanese bunkers and the war cemetery. Betio's central market is also worth a visit.
Getting there
The memorial is easily reached by car or taxi from the capital Tarawa; the journey takes about 20 minutes. Public buses run irregularly, but a rental car is more reliable.
Insider tip
Visit the memorial in the morning to avoid the heat and to pay respects in peace. Bring water and sun protection, as there is little shade.
Geography
Facts
- Erected in 1992
- Location: Betio, Tarawa
- Material: stone stele with metal plaque
- Honorees: civilian and military coast watchers
- Role: intelligence gathering in Pacific War
- Risk: operations behind enemy lines
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.
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Sights in the town Coast Watchers Memorial (6)
SDA Betio Church
Seventh-day Adventist church located in Betio, Kiribati.
Domestic Ferry Pier
Pier for inter-island ferries in Kiribati.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
To whom is the Coast Watchers Memorial dedicated?
It honors New Zealand soldiers and locals who served as coast watchers and were executed by the Japanese in 1942.
Where in Betio is the memorial located?
It is located near the Betio harbor, often integrated into a green area or memorial site.
Is the memorial accessible at any time?
Yes, it is a public outdoor memorial and can be visited at any time without an entry fee.
Are official memorial services held here?
Yes, small ceremonies are often held on the anniversary of the events, with representatives from New Zealand attending.
Are there information plaques on-site?
Yes, there are inscriptions containing the names of the victims and a brief summary of the story.
Coast Watchers Memorial: where is it located?
Coast Watchers Memorial is located in Kiribati.
Coast Watchers Memorial: what is there to see?
Highlights include marewen teriki, Beniera Uniting Church, Kaotitaeka Church.
Coast Watchers Memorial: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Coast Watchers Memorial: why is it worth visiting?
The Coast Watchers Memorial in Betio, on Tarawa Atoll, stands as a poignant reminder of the courage and sacrifice of 22 men during World War II.
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