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Betio, Kiribati - Things to Do in Betio

Betio

Betio, Kiribati - Complete Travel Guide

Betio is a small but historically significant town located on the western tip of Tarawa Atoll in Kiribati, serving as one of the most important ports in the central Pacific. This compact settlement of around 15,000 residents holds profound historical importance as the site of the brutal Battle of Tarawa during World War II, where fierce fighting between Japanese and Allied forces took place in November 1943. Today, remnants of this pivotal battle can still be found scattered across the island, making it a pilgrimage site for history enthusiasts and veterans' families. Despite its small size, Betio offers visitors a unique glimpse into both wartime history and contemporary I-Kiribati culture. The town features several war memorials, abandoned military installations, and artifacts from the battle, alongside traditional village life where fishing and copra production remain central to the local economy. Visitors can experience authentic Micronesian culture while exploring one of the Pacific's most significant World War II battlefields, all within walking distance of pristine lagoon waters and coral reefs.

Top Betio

WWII Battle of Tarawa Historical Sites Tour

Explore the numerous World War II relics scattered throughout Betio, including Japanese bunkers, gun emplacements, and the remains of military equipment from the fierce 1943 battle. Visit key battle sites, war memorials, and learn about the strategic importance of this tiny atoll that cost thousands of lives to capture.

Booking Tip: Arrange guided tours through local guesthouses or the Kiribati Visitors Bureau for $30-50 per day. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense heat, and bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Snorkeling and Diving in Tarawa Lagoon

Discover the crystal-clear waters of Tarawa's lagoon, home to busy coral reefs, tropical fish, and several WWII wrecks that have become artificial reefs. The calm lagoon waters are perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, offering excellent visibility and diverse marine life.

Booking Tip: Rent snorkeling equipment from local operators for $10-15 per day, or arrange diving trips for $40-60 per dive. Best conditions are during high tide with minimal wind, typically early morning hours.

Traditional I-Kiribati Village Experience

spend time in authentic I-Kiribati culture by visiting local villages, observing traditional fishing techniques, and learning about copra production. Participate in traditional dances, sample local foods like fish cooked in coconut milk, and witness the crafting of traditional items from pandanus leaves.

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through local contacts or guesthouses for $20-30 per person. Always ask permission before taking photos and consider bringing small gifts like school supplies for children.

Sunset Fishing and Lagoon Cruise

Join local fishermen for traditional outrigger canoe fishing expeditions or take motorboat cruises around the lagoon during the spectacular Pacific sunset. Experience traditional fishing methods while enjoying panoramic views of the atoll and surrounding ocean.

Booking Tip: Book fishing trips through local boat owners for $25-40 per person for half-day excursions. Trips are weather dependent, so maintain flexible scheduling and confirm the night before departure.

Red Beach and Coastal Exploration

Walk along the historic Red Beach where Allied forces landed during the Battle of Tarawa, now a peaceful stretch of coral sand with clear lagoon waters. Explore tide pools, collect shells, and visit nearby coastal areas where remnants of the battle can still be discovered.

Booking Tip: No formal booking required as beaches are freely accessible. Visit during low tide for best tide pool exploration, and bring reef shoes as coral can be sharp. Early morning or late afternoon offer the best lighting and temperatures.

Getting There

Betio is accessible via Bonriki International Airport on South Tarawa, located about 25 kilometers away. Fiji Airways operates regular flights from Nadi, Fiji (3 hours), while other connections are available through Nauru or the Marshall Islands. From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Betio town center for approximately $10-15, or arrange transfers through your accommodation. The journey involves crossing the narrow causeway that connects the various islets of Tarawa Atoll.

Getting Around

Transportation in Betio is primarily on foot, as the entire town can be walked across in about 30 minutes. Local buses and shared taxis connect Betio to other parts of Tarawa Atoll, running regularly throughout the day for $1-2 per trip. Bicycles can be rented from some guesthouses for around $5 per day, providing an efficient way to explore the flat terrain. For longer excursions around the atoll, hire a taxi for $20-30 per day or arrange transportation through your accommodation.

Where to Stay

Betio town center
Near Red Beach
Lagoon-side accommodations
Close to the port area
Traditional guesthouse compounds
Budget backpacker lodges

Food & Dining

Dining options in Betio are limited but authentic, focusing on fresh seafood and traditional I-Kiribati cuisine. Local restaurants and family-run eateries serve dishes featuring fish, coconut crab, and taro, often cooked in earth ovens or with coconut milk. The main market offers fresh tropical fruits, coconuts, and locally caught fish. Most guesthouses provide meals as part of accommodation packages, and it's advisable to inform hosts of dietary requirements in advance. Expect to pay $8-15 for local meals, with limited Western food options available.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Kiribati

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

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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 Betio is during the dry season from May to October, when temperatures are slightly cooler (26-30°C) and rainfall is minimal. Trade winds during this period provide natural cooling and better conditions for water activities. The wet season (November-April) brings higher humidity, frequent rainfall, and potential tropical storms, though temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. For WWII history enthusiasts, November offers the most significance as it marks the anniversary of the Battle of Tarawa, though weather conditions can be unpredictable during this transition period.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Australian dollars as ATMs are unreliable and credit cards aren't widely accepted
Pack reef shoes and snorkeling gear as local rental options are limited and expensive
Respect local customs by dressing modestly and asking permission before photographing people or entering village areas

Activities in Betio