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Line Islands
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Explore Kiribati's Line Islands for remote atolls, bird-rich lagoons, bonefishing, Polynesian heritage and quiet Pacific landscapes.

Kiribati's Line Islands form one of the most isolated inhabited island groups in the central Pacific. Stretching across a vast area of ocean, they include Kiritimati, also known as Christmas Island, together with the smaller atolls of Tabuaeran and Teraina, as well as largely uninhabited islands such as Malden, Starbuck, Vostok, Flint and Caroline, now officially known as Millennium Island. Distances between them are considerable, and each has a markedly different landscape.
Read more about Line Islands
Kiritimati is the principal gateway and the largest coral atoll in the world by land area. Its broad, flat terrain is patterned with hypersaline lagoons, shallow inland ponds, saltbush, coconut palms and long, quiet stretches of reef coast. The island is known internationally for bonefishing and fly-fishing, while its wetlands and coastal habitats support seabirds, shorebirds and other wildlife. Settlement is concentrated around villages including London, the administrative centre, and the island's infrastructure is modest and widely dispersed.
Tabuaeran, traditionally called Fanning Island, offers a more compact atoll experience, with villages and coconut groves arranged around a large lagoon. Teraina, or Washington Island, is wetter and greener, with a freshwater lake unusual among low coral atolls. Life on both islands remains closely connected to fishing, copra production, family networks and the limited arrival of ships and aircraft. Visitors should expect simple services, slow rhythms and a strong dependence on weather and supply connections rather than a conventional resort environment.
The islands' history is layered into their apparently timeless scenery. Polynesian voyagers reached and settled parts of the group long before European exploration; later, the islands entered British colonial administration and became associated with shipping, coconut production, wartime aviation and twentieth-century nuclear testing. Malden and Kiritimati retain particular significance in the history of British and American atmospheric weapons testing, although these places are remote and access is restricted or logistically difficult.
Travel in the Line Islands is best suited to visitors interested in remote geography, marine environments, birdlife, fishing and island communities. There are no dense sightseeing circuits: the central experiences are exploring lagoons with local guidance, observing coastal wildlife, learning about atoll life and appreciating the immense openness of the Pacific. Environmental care is essential, since freshwater, waste disposal, transport and medical resources are limited across the group.

When is the best time to visit Line Islands?

Best: July–September · 31°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January30220
February30200
March30180
April31160
May31140
June31120
July (best)31110
August (best)31100
September (best)31110
October31130
November30150
December30190

Getting to and around Line Islands

How to get there

Kiritimati is the principal entry point to the Line Islands and has Cassidy International Airport near London. Air links are limited and schedules can change, with connections generally organised through larger Pacific gateways such as Honolulu or Fiji depending on current services. Air Kiribati may provide domestic links from Tarawa to Kiritimati and, when operating, onward services to Tabuaeran and Teraina; these routes require advance confirmation. The smaller islands can also depend on infrequent shipping, but passenger travel by sea is not a regular substitute for air access.

Transportation

Kiritimati is spread across a large atoll, so local taxis, arranged transfers and hired vehicles are more practical than walking for many journeys. Roads and tracks vary in condition, and fuel, vehicle hire and repair facilities are limited. On Tabuaeran and Teraina, transport is simpler and closely linked to local boats, small vehicles and community arrangements. Lagoon excursions should be made with people who know local channels, tides and weather. Do not assume that a connecting flight, boat or vehicle will be available at short notice.

Best landmarks in Line Islands

The most recognisable landmarks of the Line Islands are largely natural. Kiritimati's immense low-lying atoll, broad lagoon systems and scattered salt ponds express the scale and fragility of coral-island geography, while its long reef coast creates a powerful sense of open Pacific space. London, the island's administrative centre, is the main point of reference for visitors, although its buildings are modest rather than monumental. The historic airfield and surviving traces of military infrastructure recall the island's wartime strategic role, while Malden Island and parts of Kiritimati are associated with the nuclear-testing era; these remote locations are not ordinary sightseeing stops. Tabuaeran's encircling lagoon and settlement landscape form its defining visual landmark, contrasting with Teraina's freshwater lake and greener vegetation. Caroline Island, officially Millennium Island, is one of the world's easternmost land areas and is valued for its isolation and natural setting, but it is uninhabited and difficult to reach. Together, these places illustrate the Line Islands' significance through geography, maritime history, ecology and the material traces of twentieth-century military activity.

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Best restaurants in Line Islands

Dining in the Line Islands is simple, locally influenced and shaped by supply logistics. Freshly caught fish, tuna and other seafood are central to many meals, alongside rice, noodles, breadfruit, coconut, taro and imported tinned or packaged foods. Kiritimati has the broadest choice, with modest guesthouse meals, family-run food services, small cafés and practical eateries concentrated around settlements and accommodation. On Tabuaeran and Teraina, visitors should expect fewer options and should arrange meals with their hosts rather than depend on spontaneous restaurant-hopping. Coconut and fish remain important to local food culture, while fresh produce can be seasonal and expensive because much is brought across the ocean. There is little reason to expect an extensive fine-dining scene, but shared meals can offer a more useful introduction to atoll life than formal menus. Carrying snacks and suitable drinking water is sensible, particularly when travelling away from the main settlements or undertaking a full-day lagoon or fishing trip.

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Best bars in Line Islands

Nightlife in the Line Islands is quiet and community-oriented. Kiritimati has the greatest concentration of places to meet in the evening, including casual hotel or guesthouse bars, small local meeting places and occasional music or social events, but it does not have a substantial nightclub district. On Tabuaeran and Teraina, evening life generally centres on family gatherings, churches, community activities and conversation rather than late-night commercial entertainment. Alcohol availability varies and should never be assumed on the outer islands. Visitors should dress and behave discreetly around villages and religious activities, and should follow the arrangements of their accommodation. The absence of a large nightlife scene is part of the region's remote character: evenings are better suited to watching the sky, listening to the lagoon and learning about island life than searching for a scheduled programme of bars and clubs.

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Best nightclubs in Line Islands

Nightlife in the Line Islands is quiet and community-oriented. Kiritimati has the greatest concentration of places to meet in the evening, including casual hotel or guesthouse bars, small local meeting places and occasional music or social events, but it does not have a substantial nightclub district. On Tabuaeran and Teraina, evening life generally centres on family gatherings, churches, community activities and conversation rather than late-night commercial entertainment. Alcohol availability varies and should never be assumed on the outer islands. Visitors should dress and behave discreetly around villages and religious activities, and should follow the arrangements of their accommodation. The absence of a large nightlife scene is part of the region's remote character: evenings are better suited to watching the sky, listening to the lagoon and learning about island life than searching for a scheduled programme of bars and clubs.

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Best shops in Line Islands

Shopping in the Line Islands is limited and practical, with the widest selection found on Kiritimati. Small shops and market-style stalls may carry food, drinks, toiletries, clothing and basic household goods, but stock depends on shipping and flights rather than a constant retail supply. Visitors may find locally made woven items, pandanus products, shell work or other handicrafts through community contacts, although availability varies and designs are not standardised. On Tabuaeran and Teraina, shopping opportunities are considerably smaller, so bring specialist equipment, medicines, reef supplies and personal necessities from the main gateway. Local fish and coconut products can sometimes be obtained through informal arrangements, but visitors should agree prices and respect customary ownership. Do not buy coral, archaeological material, protected wildlife products or shells taken from sensitive habitats. Souvenirs are best chosen from responsibly made crafts or durable locally produced items, while the most valuable purchase is often a better understanding of island skills and atoll life rather than a commercial product.

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Line Islands essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the Australian dollar, written AUD, as throughout Kiribati. Card acceptance and reliable cash infrastructure are limited, particularly outside Kiritimati's main settlements, so carry sufficient Australian-dollar cash in good condition. Some accommodation and larger service providers may accept cards, but connectivity and payment equipment can fail. Arrange access to money before leaving the principal gateway, and keep emergency funds securely separated from everyday spending.
Safety
The main risks are remoteness, limited medical care, intense sun, dehydration, mosquitoes, rough sea conditions and difficult access to help rather than urban crime. Swim and boat only where local conditions are known, since reef passages, currents and changing tides can be hazardous. Driving after dark and travelling on unlit roads require particular care. On Kiritimati, avoid isolated coastal areas without informing someone of your plans, and take extra precautions on the smaller islands where communications and transport are more limited.
Emergency Situations
Kiribati commonly uses 192 for police, 193 for fire and 194 for ambulance services, though visitors should confirm the current arrangements with their accommodation or local authorities on arrival. Emergency response is constrained by the Line Islands' distance from major medical facilities, and evacuation can take time. Carry travel insurance that covers remote-area medical evacuation, keep a charged phone and backup power available, and tell a local contact before undertaking lagoon, fishing or remote-island trips.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress modestly in villages and ask before photographing people, homes, churches or community activities. Seek permission before crossing private land, entering coconut plantations or visiting sites associated with local history. Follow local instructions around lagoons, reefs and bird habitat, and never remove shells, coral, archaeological material or other natural objects. Public behaviour should be discreet, particularly near churches and family gatherings. Tipping is not a defining local custom; pay agreed prices and show appreciation without assuming that gratuities are expected.
Local Tips
Kiritimati's size makes a single village an impractical base for seeing the whole island, so arrange transport for lagoons, fishing areas and wildlife sites in advance. Teraina's wetter environment and freshwater lake differ markedly from Kiritimati's dry, open landscape, while Tabuaeran offers a more compact lagoon setting. Bring basic supplies and do not rely on finding a broad choice of food, toiletries or replacement equipment. The Line Islands use UTC+14, among the world's earliest time zones, so check dates carefully when coordinating international flights.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloMauri[Mow-ree]
GoodbyeAere raoi[Ah-reh rah-oy]
YesAe[Ay]
NoKaua[Kow-ah]
Please/You're welcomeTama ne[Tah-mah neh]
Thank youMaurin te kabu[Mow-reen teh kah-boo]
Excuse me/SorryTama te mauri[Tah-mah teh mow-ree]
How are you?Te taetae?[Teh tie-tie?]
Fine. And you?Iko na. Ko na?[Ee-koh nah. Koh nah?]
Do you speak English?E na te taetae e English?[Eh nah teh tie-tie eh English?]
I don't understandNara te taetae[Nah-rah teh tie-tie]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE riki n te menua, tama ne[Eh ree-kee nah teh meh-nu-ah, tah-mah neh]
I don't eat meatNara te kai i te mea[Nah-rah teh kah-ee ee teh meh-ah]
Cheers!Kia orana![Kee-ah oh-rah-nah!]
I would like to pay, pleaseE riki n te tebu, tama ne[Eh ree-kee nah teh teh-boo, tah-mah neh]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Tama te raoi![Tah-mah teh rah-oy!]
Go away!Tama ni![Tah-mah nee!]
Call the Police!E taetae n te Police![Eh tie-tie nah teh Poh-lees!]
Call a doctor!E taetae n te dokita![Eh tie-tie nah teh doh-kee-tah!]
I'm lostE na te manman[Eh nah teh mahn-mahn]
I'm illE na te mauri[Eh nah teh mow-ree]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...E riki n te raoi...[Eh ree-kee nah teh rah-oy...]
I'm just lookingE na te raoi[Eh nah teh rah-oy]
How much is it?Te aoti aei?[Teh ow-tee ah-eh?]
That's too expensiveTe aei e aei raoi[Teh ah-eh eh ah-eh rah-oy]
Can you lower the price?E na te meitaki aei?[Eh nah teh may-tah-kee ah-eh?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Te aei i te taime?[Teh ah-eh ee teh tie-meh?]
It's one o'clockTe aei e aitu o'clock[Teh ah-eh eh eye-too oh-clock]
Half past (10)Te aei e aiti riki[Teh ah-eh eh eye-tee ree-kee]
MorningMauri[Mow-ree]
AfternoonTe tiku[Teh tee-koo]
EveningTe kapu[Teh kah-poo]
YesterdayI te aei[Ee teh ah-eh]
TodayI te aei[Ee teh ah-eh]
TomorrowI te aei riki[Ee teh ah-eh ree-kee]
1Toru[Toh-roo]
2Rua[Roo-ah]
3Toru[Toh-roo]
4Biri[Bee-ree]
5Nai[Nigh]
6Nai riki[Nigh ree-kee]
7Toru riki[Toh-roo ree-kee]
8Biri riki[Bee-ree ree-kee]
9Nai riki[Nigh ree-kee]
10Nai riki[Nigh ree-kee]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Te kairi a...?[Teh kye-ree ah...?]
What's the address?Te aei n te adires?[Teh ah-eh nah teh ah-deer-es?]
Can you show me (on the map)?E na te taetae n te map?[Eh nah teh tie-tie nah teh map?]
When's the next (bus)?Te aei n te bus?[Teh ah-eh nah teh bus?]
A ticket (to ....)E ticket (n ...)[Eh ticket (nah ...)]

History of Line Islands

Early Polynesian Settlement

The Line Islands were reached by Polynesian navigators during the wider eastward settlement of the Pacific, although the timing and permanence of occupation varied between islands. Knowledge of currents, stars, reef passages and seasonal winds made these low atolls navigable despite their isolation. Archaeological traces and oral traditions indicate that voyaging, fishing and the management of coconut and other useful plants shaped early life. Some islands were later uninhabited or only intermittently visited, reflecting the difficulty of sustaining communities on atolls with limited freshwater and soil.

European Exploration and Island Naming

European voyagers charted several Line Islands from the sixteenth century onwards, adding names that remain familiar alongside their Gilbertese and traditional names. Captain James Cook sighted Christmas Island in 1777, naming it for the date of his visit. European mapping gradually incorporated the islands into Pacific shipping knowledge, though their remoteness limited sustained settlement. Names such as Christmas, Fanning and Washington reflect this period, while contemporary Kiribati usage increasingly restores or preserves local names including Kiritimati, Tabuaeran and Teraina.

British Administration and the Gilbert and Ellice Islands

Britain declared a protectorate over the Gilbert and Ellice Islands in the late nineteenth century, bringing the Line Islands into a colonial administrative framework. The group was later administered as part of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony, despite the great ocean distances separating its atolls. Colonial influence was visible in copra production, Christian mission activity, schools, shipping arrangements and imported administration. The islands remained small and remote communities rather than densely settled colonial centres, with local custom and family organisation continuing to shape daily life.

Coconut Production and Ocean Transport

For much of the colonial period, copra made from dried coconut meat was the main commercial resource of the inhabited Line Islands. Coconut palms provided food, construction material and fuel as well as an export crop, while ships connected isolated communities with administrative centres and markets. The trade encouraged settlement around landing places and reinforced the importance of lagoon and reef knowledge. Its legacy remains visible in coconut groves and in the continued importance of small-scale fishing, subsistence cultivation and maritime supply routes.

The Second World War and Strategic Airfields

The Second World War increased the strategic importance of Kiritimati, whose broad, flat atoll could support military aviation and logistical activity. Airfield development and wartime infrastructure altered the island's transport links and left traces of the period in its built environment, although much has weathered or disappeared in the tropical climate. The war also demonstrated how an apparently remote atoll could become significant because of its position across Pacific air and sea routes.

Nuclear Testing at Malden and Kiritimati

The Line Islands became part of the history of atmospheric nuclear testing during the 1950s and 1960s. Britain conducted Operation Grapple tests at Malden Island and later at Christmas Island in 1957 and 1958; the United States carried out further tests in the central Pacific in 1962. The operations brought military personnel, construction and air traffic to otherwise isolated atolls, while exposure, environmental effects and the experiences of local and former island workers remain subjects of enduring concern. Access to testing sites is limited and conditions are remote.

Independence and the Modern Republic of Kiribati

The Gilbert Islands and associated Line and Phoenix Islands became the independent Republic of Kiribati in 1979. The new country inherited a scattered territory extending across a huge area of the Pacific, making transport, public services and environmental management especially challenging. The Line Islands have since developed as a small outer-island region centred on Kiritimati, with Tabuaeran and Teraina retaining distinct community identities. Contemporary concerns include freshwater security, climate change, coastal erosion, waste management and the protection of marine and bird habitats.

Line Islands in Photos

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Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Line Islands, Kiribati

Discover the wonders of Line Islands with Evendo – your 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more!

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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More about the Evendo app

Evendo is your all-in-one travel companion for exploring the Line Islands, Kiribati. Discover attractions, book tours, and enjoy curated local tips – all in a free, easy-to-use app.

  • History of Line Islands
  • Travel essentials and local advice
  • User-friendly navigation
  • 'Near Me' feature for nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips for authentic experiences
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Evendo, your ultimate travel guide to the Line Islands, Kiribati. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our app helps you make the most of your trip with detailed information on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. With Evendo, every location comes alive with rich descriptions, stunning images, practical local tips, maps, and contact details. No more scattered planning – find everything in one place.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of famous landmarks like Millennium Island and Caroline Island, or enjoy the vibrant local culture at Fanning Island. Savor delicious local cuisine at renowned restaurants such as the Coral Beach Cafe and Coconut Grove Restaurant. With Evendo, you can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app, making your travel planning seamless and hassle-free.

Our app also offers insightful features like the history of Line Islands, essential travel tips, and curated local advice to ensure you experience the islands like a true local. The 'Near Me' feature helps you explore what's around you, no matter where you are. And the best part? Evendo is completely free, with no hidden costs or in-app purchases.

Embrace the adventure and download Evendo today to unlock the full potential of your Line Islands journey and beyond. With global coverage of over 7,000 destinations, Evendo is your gateway to the world.

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