Maiana Atoll

Maiana Atoll is a place of profound spirituality and natural wonder, located just a short trip from the capital, Tarawa. Known throughout Kiribati for its legends and connection to the spirit world, the island has a unique cultural depth. Sacred shrines are scattered across the atoll, and locals maintain a deep respect for ancient stories that guide their daily lives. It is a handy destination for those interested in folklore and traditional beliefs. Geographically, Maiana is defined by its vast, shallow western lagoon. During low tide, enormous white sandbanks emerge, stretching for kilometers into the distance. This creates a surreal landscape where visitors can walk through ankle-deep water in total tranquility. The island's flora is less dense than the northern atolls, giving it an open, airy feel with endless horizons. Community life is centered on the Maneaba, where traditions are carefully preserved. Dietary staples on Maiana include fresh seafood and coconut, with the atoll being famous for its skilled night-time flying fish fishermen. The local flavors are simple and authentic, reflecting the island's self-sufficient lifestyle. The best time for a visit is between April and October when the weather is at its clearest. Maiana's proximity to Tarawa makes it one of the more accessible out-islands, reachable by a short flight or boat ride. Respect for local customs is paramount when visiting Maiana's villages and sacred sites. The atoll provides a rare chance to experience the spiritual side of i-Kiribati culture against a backdrop of remarkable natural beauty. The sunsets over the vast, wet sandbanks of the lagoon are particularly wide-open, reflecting the colors of the sky in a mirror-like display. It is a peaceful haven for the soul.

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.

Bairiki Business District

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

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.

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

Bairiki National Stadium

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

Bairiki Independence Site

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

Maneaba ni Maungatabu

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

Betio Islet

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

Bonriki Airport Terminal

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

Bonriki Plateau

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

Nature

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Tarawa Lagoon

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

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Abaokoro Wetlands

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

Abaiang Lagoon

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

More places

National Library and Archives

The National Library of Kiribati is located in Bairiki on South Tarawa.

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.

Betio Port

The primary international seaport of Kiribati in South Tarawa handles the vast majority of the island nation's import goods and containers.

Australian War Memorial

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

Coast Watchers Memorial

A memorial honoring the New Zealand and British coast watchers who were executed by Japanese forces in Betio in 1942.

Betio Japanese Command Post

A massive concrete bunker from World War II that served as the headquarters for Japanese defenders during the Battle of Tarawa.

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U.S. Marine Memorial

This memorial honors the soldiers of the U.S.

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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.