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Beru, Kiribati - Things to Do in Beru

Beru

Beru, Kiribati - Complete Travel Guide

Beru is a remote coral atoll in the Southern Gilbert Islands of Kiribati, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Pacific island life. This pristine atoll consists of several small islets connected by causeways, surrounded by crystal-clear lagoon waters and busy coral reefs. With a population of around 2,000 people, Beru maintains strong cultural traditions and provides an intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurous travelers. The island is renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, traditional handicrafts, and well-preserved Kiribati culture. Visitors can experience subsistence fishing practices, witness traditional dancing and singing, and explore some of the most unspoiled coral reefs in the Pacific. Beru offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from modern life and spend time in a community where traditional ways of living remain largely intact.

Top Beru

Lagoon Snorkeling and Diving

Explore Beru's pristine lagoon and outer reef systems, home to abundant marine life including tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles. The coral formations are exceptionally well-preserved due to the island's remote location and limited human impact. The lagoon's calm, clear waters provide perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local guesthouses or community leaders as there are no commercial operators. Equipment may be limited, so bring your own gear if possible. Best visibility occurs during morning hours, and always snorkel with a local guide for safety.

Traditional Fishing Experiences

Join local fishermen for traditional fishing methods including net fishing in the lagoon and line fishing from outrigger canoes. Learn about sustainable fishing practices that have been passed down through generations. This authentic cultural exchange provides insight into daily life and traditional knowledge systems.

Booking Tip: Arrange directly with village elders or through your accommodation. Typically costs $20-30 per person and includes use of traditional equipment. Early morning departures around 5-6 AM offer the best fishing opportunities.

Handicraft Workshops

Participate in traditional weaving and handicraft-making sessions with local artisans. Learn to weave pandanus leaves into baskets, hats, and mats, or try your hand at creating traditional ornaments from shells and coconut fiber. These skills have been essential to island life for centuries.

Booking Tip: Contact the island council or women's groups to arrange workshops. Sessions typically cost $15-25 per person and last 2-3 hours. Materials are usually provided, and you can often purchase finished items directly from artisans.

Island Cycling and Exploration

Cycle around Beru's network of coral roads and causeways connecting the various islets. The flat terrain makes for easy cycling while offering views of both lagoon and ocean sides. Stop at traditional villages, ancient meeting grounds, and scenic viewpoints along the way.

Booking Tip: Bicycles can sometimes be borrowed from guesthouses or rented from locals for around $5-10 per day. Bring sun protection and water as shade is limited. Early morning or late afternoon rides avoid the hottest temperatures.

Traditional Dance and Music Performances

Experience authentic Kiribati cultural performances featuring traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. These performances often include the famous Kiribati sitting dance and traditional chants that tell stories of island history and legends. Community participation is often encouraged.

Booking Tip: Arrange through village leaders or during community events. Performances may be organized for groups of visitors for $50-100 total. Best experienced during evening hours, and visitors are often invited to join in simple dances.

Getting There

Reaching Beru requires flying to Tarawa (Bonriki International Airport) first, then taking a domestic flight with Air Kiribati to Beru's small airstrip. Flights to Beru operate only 1-2 times per week and must be booked well in advance. The journey from Tarawa takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, inter-island cargo ships occasionally carry passengers, but schedules are irregular and the journey can take 1-2 days depending on weather conditions.

Getting Around

Transportation on Beru is primarily by foot, bicycle, or motorcycle along the coral roads that connect the islets. The entire atoll can be traversed in a few hours by bike or motorbike. Some locals own small trucks or cars that may provide rides for a small fee. Boats are used to access more remote areas of the lagoon or for fishing trips. Walking remains the most common form of transport, as distances between villages are relatively short.

Where to Stay

Village guesthouses
Community homestays
Church-run accommodations
Local family compounds
Basic government rest houses
Camping with permission

Food & Dining

Dining on Beru centers around fresh seafood, coconut, and locally grown taro and breadfruit. Most meals are prepared in traditional earth ovens or over open fires, featuring fish caught daily from the lagoon or ocean. Coconut crab, when in season, is considered a delicacy. Visitors typically eat with host families or in small community kitchens, as there are no restaurants in the conventional sense. Meals are simple but fresh, often including rice imported from other countries mixed with local ingredients.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Kiribati

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Bistro Maumu

4.7 /5
(726 reviews)
bar

restaurant muni

4.8 /5
(579 reviews)

Barista Kiribathgoda

4.5 /5
(446 reviews) 2
cafe store

Barista Nugegoda - Diner

4.5 /5
(430 reviews) 2
cafe

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Beru is during the dry season from April to October when rainfall is lower and temperatures are slightly cooler. Trade winds during this period provide natural cooling and better conditions for water activities. November to March brings higher temperatures, more rainfall, and potential storm activity. However, Beru's equatorial location means temperatures remain fairly consistent year-round, with high humidity being the main comfort factor to consider.

Insider Tips

Bring cash (Australian dollars) as there are no banks or ATMs on the island
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are not available locally
Learn basic Kiribati greetings like 'Mauri' (hello) to show respect for local culture and enhance interactions with residents

Activities in Beru