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Christmas Island, Kiribati - Things to Do in Christmas Island

Things to Do in Christmas Island

Christmas Island, Kiribati - Complete Travel Guide

Christmas Island, also known as Kiritimati, is the world's largest coral atoll and part of the Republic of Kiribati in the central Pacific Ocean. This remote tropical paradise spans over 600 square kilometers and offers pristine beaches, incredible bird watching opportunities, and some of the world's best bone fishing. The island sits just north of the equator and is famous for being one of the first places on Earth to welcome each new year. Despite its isolation, Christmas Island provides unique experiences for adventurous travelers seeking untouched natural beauty. The island's lagoons and flats are teeming with marine life, making it a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers. With a small local population primarily centered in the village of London, visitors can experience authentic Kiribati culture while enjoying the tranquility of one of the Pacific's most unspoiled destinations.

Top Things to Do in Christmas Island

Bone Fishing in the Flats

Christmas Island is renowned worldwide for its exceptional bone fishing opportunities across vast shallow flats. The crystal-clear waters provide perfect conditions for sight fishing, with bonefish averaging 3-6 pounds and some trophy fish reaching over 10 pounds. The island's remote location means minimal fishing pressure and abundant fish populations.

Booking Tip: Book with established operators 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak season (April-October). Expect to pay $400-600 per day for guided fishing including equipment. Look for operators who provide quality fly rods, reels, and local expertise.

Bird Watching at Seabird Colonies

The island hosts massive seabird colonies with over 18 species including red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and terns. During breeding season, millions of birds create spectacular displays across the island's coastline. The Cook Island area is particularly renowned for its dense bird populations and accessible viewing points.

Booking Tip: Visit during breeding season (November-March) for maximum bird activity. Local guides charge around $50-100 per day and provide essential knowledge about bird behavior and best viewing locations.

Snorkeling and Diving the Coral Gardens

The island's protected lagoons and outer reefs offer pristine coral gardens with exceptional visibility often exceeding 100 feet. Snorkelers and divers can explore untouched coral formations teeming with tropical fish, rays, and occasional reef sharks. The diversity of marine ecosystems ranges from shallow lagoon gardens to dramatic drop-offs.

Booking Tip: Bring your own equipment as rental options are extremely limited. Local boat operators charge $100-200 for half-day trips to prime snorkeling spots. Book through your accommodation for the most reliable operators.

Exploring Abandoned WWII Sites

Christmas Island contains numerous World War II remnants including abandoned airstrips, bunkers, and military installations from both British and American operations. These historical sites are scattered across the island and offer fascinating glimpses into the Pacific Theater's strategic importance. Many sites are accessible by foot or bicycle from the main settlement.

Booking Tip: Hire a local guide for $30-50 per day to locate and learn about the historical significance of various sites. Many locations are unmarked and require local knowledge to find and interpret safely.

Beach Exploration and Lagoon Swimming

The island boasts over 150 kilometers of pristine beaches with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Many beaches remain completely untouched and offer perfect solitude for swimming, beachcombing, and sunset watching. The protected lagoons provide calm, warm water ideal for extended swimming and floating.

Booking Tip: Rent a bicycle ($10-15 per day) or arrange transport with locals ($50-100 per day) to reach remote beaches. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks as facilities are non-existent at most locations.

Getting There

Christmas Island is accessible only by air via Fiji Airways, which operates weekly flights from Nadi, Fiji (approximately 3.5 hours). The flight schedule varies seasonally, typically operating 1-2 times per week depending on demand. Travelers must transit through Fiji, making this one of the most remote destinations in the Pacific. It's essential to book flights well in advance as capacity is extremely limited, and confirm schedules as they can change due to weather or operational requirements.

Getting Around

Transportation on Christmas Island is quite limited, with most visitors relying on bicycles, walking, or arranged transport through their accommodation. The main settlement of London and nearby areas can be explored on foot, while bicycles are the most practical option for reaching beaches and attractions within 10-15 kilometers. For longer distances or fishing expeditions, visitors typically arrange transport with local operators or their lodge, which can cost $50-150 per day depending on distance and duration. There are no rental cars or public transportation systems.

Where to Stay

London Village Area
Banana Settlement
Poland Settlement
Paris Settlement
Tabwakea Village
Cook Island Area

Food & Dining

Dining options on Christmas Island are extremely limited, with most visitors eating at their accommodation or lodge. The few local establishments in London village serve traditional Kiribati dishes featuring fresh fish, coconut, pandanus fruit, and imported staples like rice and canned goods. Many lodges provide full meal plans including fresh-caught fish prepared in local style. Visitors should expect simple, hearty meals rather than gourmet dining, and it's advisable to bring favorite snacks or special dietary items as grocery options are very basic. Fresh coconuts and locally caught fish are highlights of the island's limited but authentic culinary offerings.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Kiribati

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

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

When to Visit

The best time to visit Christmas Island is during the dry season from April to October, when rainfall is minimal and trade winds provide comfortable conditions. This period offers the most reliable weather for fishing, with calmer seas and clearer skies. However, bird watchers should consider visiting during the breeding season from November to March, despite higher humidity and occasional rainfall. The island's equatorial location means temperatures remain consistently warm (26-32°C) year-round, but the wet season can bring heavy downpours and stronger winds that may affect outdoor activities and flight schedules.

Insider Tips

Bring a comprehensive first aid kit and any prescription medications, as medical facilities are extremely basic and evacuations are complex and expensive
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and sun protection clothing as these items are unavailable locally and the equatorial sun is intense
Confirm your return flight 48-72 hours before departure, as schedules can change due to weather conditions, and always have contingency plans for potential delays

Explore Activities in Christmas Island