Line Islands, Kiribati Travel Guide
Discover the unspoiled beauty and rich culture of Kiribati's Line Islands, a paradise for nature lovers, marine enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
The Line Islands in Kiribati offer a captivating escape into a pristine paradise where time seems to stand still. Nestled in the central Pacific Ocean, this remote archipelago boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush, untouched landscapes that are perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The islands are a haven for marine life, making them a dream destination for snorkelers and divers who wish to explore the underwater wonders. The cultural richness of the Line Islands is another aspect that will captivate visitors. The local communities, with their warm hospitality and unique traditions, provide an authentic glimpse into the island way of life. Traditional dances, handicrafts, and local cuisine offer a deeper connection to the heritage and customs of Kiribati. Visiting the Line Islands is not just about the picturesque beauty but also about immersing oneself in the local culture. Despite their remote location, the Line Islands are accessible and offer a range of activities from beachcombing and bird watching to fishing and sailing. Nature reserves and protected areas ensure that the natural beauty remains unspoiled, providing a sanctuary for various species of flora and fauna. Whether you seek relaxation on a secluded beach or an adventure in the great outdoors, the Line Islands in Kiribati promise an unforgettable experience.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Line Islands.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment.
- Respect local customs and traditions; dress modestly when visiting villages.
- Pack insect repellent as mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during the wet season.
- Carry cash, as ATMs and card facilities may be limited on the islands.
- Plan your visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather conditions.
Top City Travel Guides in Line Islands
The cities of Line Islands, and the easiest places to base yourself.
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Kiritimati
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Captain Cook Hotel
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Bistro de Myrko
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Sunset Horizon Fishing Lodge
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Kiritimati
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Captain Cook Hotel
Discover the serene comforts and local flavors at Captain Cook Hotel in Banana, Kiribati – your perfect getaway in paradise.
Bistro de Myrko
Discover the rich flavors and cozy ambiance at Bistro de Myrko, a culinary gem perfect for unforgettable dining experiences.
Lagoon View Resort
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Cassidy International Airport
Discover the beauty of Kiribati through Cassidy International Airport, your gateway to breathtaking islands and rich cultural experiences in the Pacific.
Lagoon View Resort
Discover the serene beauty of Kiritimati at Lagoon View Resort, where relaxation meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Kiritimati Yacht Klub
Discover the charm of Kiritimati Yacht Klub, where relaxation meets adventure in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.
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Wishing Star
Discover the vibrant offerings of Wishing Star, London's premier supermarket for fresh, local, and international products.
Kiritimati ben
Discover the taste of Kiritimati at Kiritimati Ben, a bakery offering fresh pastries and breads in a charming atmosphere.
Set Vsat internet Shopping
Discover the heart of local shopping at Set Vsat Internet Shopping in Tabwakea, where unique home goods meet Kiribati's vibrant culture.
Buokam Store
Explore the local treasures at Buokam Store in Kiritimati, offering a unique selection of goods and a glimpse into island culture.
Explore Line Islands on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Line Islands, mapped for you.
Line Islands Essentials
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The Line Islands in Kiribati are remote and can be challenging to reach. The primary gateway is Kiritimati (Christmas Island), which has an international airport, Cassidy International Airport (CXI). There are limited flights from Honolulu, Hawaii, and Fiji. It's advisable to book flights well in advance due to the infrequent schedule. Ensure you have the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and any required visas.
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Transportation options within the Line Islands are limited. On Kiritimati, taxis and rental cars are available but can be expensive. Bicycles are a popular and eco-friendly way to get around. Inter-island travel is typically by boat, but schedules are irregular and dependent on weather conditions. It's essential to plan your transportation logistics in advance and be prepared for delays.
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The official currency of Kiribati is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's crucial to carry sufficient cash. There are a few ATMs available, but it's advisable to bring enough cash to cover your expenses. Ensure you have small denominations for day-to-day transactions.
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The Line Islands are generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, basic safety precautions should still be observed. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of an emergency, dial the local emergency number 999 for medical, fire, or police assistance. Medical facilities are limited, so it's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are small clinics and pharmacies available. Evacuation for serious medical conditions may require transport to a larger facility in Fiji or Hawaii.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering sacred sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Transport schedules can be unpredictable. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Mauri' (hello). A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience the Line Islands like a local, engage with the community and participate in local events and festivals. Visit the local markets to buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Try traditional dishes like 'te tuae' (coconut toddy) and 'te ika' (fish). Respect the environment by not littering and participating in community-led conservation efforts. Learn a few words in Gilbertese to connect more deeply with the locals.
When is the best time to visit Line Islands?
Useful Local Phrases for Line Islands
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Line Islands. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- 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]
- HelloMauri
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- 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]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE riki n te menua, tama ne
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- 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]
- Help!Tama te raoi!
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- 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?]
- I'd like to buy...E riki n te raoi...
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- 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]
- What time is it?Te aei i te taime?
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- 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 ...)]
- Where's a/the...?Te kairi a...?
History of Line Islands
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The Line Islands, part of Kiribati, were first settled by Polynesians over a thousand years ago. These early settlers brought their rich traditions and navigational skills, which laid the foundation for the islands' cultural heritage. Evidence of their presence can be found in ancient marae (sacred places) and traditional artifacts scattered across the islands.
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The Line Islands were first documented by European explorers in the 18th century. British navigator Captain James Cook is credited with the discovery of several of these islands during his voyages. The islands were named after their proximity to the equator and the navigational line used by sailors during this period.
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In the 19th century, the Line Islands became a significant stopover for whaling ships. These ships, primarily from the United States, would anchor in the islands to resupply and take advantage of the abundant marine life. The whaling era brought increased contact with the outside world and introduced new goods and practices to the local population.
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The Line Islands were formally annexed by the British Empire in the late 19th century as part of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony. The British established administrative posts and attempted to control the copra trade, which was a significant economic activity on the islands. This period also saw the introduction of Christianity and Western education.
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During World War II, the Line Islands played a strategic role in the Pacific Theater. The United States established military bases on several of the islands, including Kanton and Christmas Island, to support their operations against Japanese forces. The remnants of these bases, including airstrips and bunkers, can still be explored today.
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Kiribati gained independence from British rule in 1979, and the Line Islands became an integral part of the new nation. Since then, the islands have focused on sustainable development and preserving their unique cultural heritage. The local community continues to celebrate traditional festivals and practices, while also welcoming visitors to share in their rich history.
Neighbouring Regions of Line Islands
The closest regions to Line Islands, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Kiribati
Looking beyond Line Islands? Discover Kiribati for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore KiribatiLine Islands in Photos
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The Enchanting Line Islands: Kiribati's Hidden Gems
The Line Islands in Kiribati offer a captivating escape into a pristine paradise where time seems to stand still. Nestled in the central Pacific Ocean, this remote archipelago boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush, untouched landscapes that are perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The islands are a haven for marine life, making them a dream destination for snorkelers and divers who wish to explore the underwater wonders. The cultural richness of the Line Islands is another aspect that will captivate visitors. The local communities, with their warm hospitality and unique traditions, provide an authentic glimpse into the island way of life. Traditional dances, handicrafts, and local cuisine offer a deeper connection to the heritage and customs of Kiribati. Visiting the Line Islands is not just about the picturesque beauty but also about immersing oneself in the local culture. Despite their remote location, the Line Islands are accessible and offer a range of activities from beachcombing and bird watching to fishing and sailing. Nature reserves and protected areas ensure that the natural beauty remains unspoiled, providing a sanctuary for various species of flora and fauna. Whether you seek relaxation on a secluded beach or an adventure in the great outdoors, the Line Islands in Kiribati promise an unforgettable experience.