Kiribati in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Kiribati

30°C (87°F) High Temp

25°C (77°F) Low Temp

157 mm (6.2 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Prime fishing season - May marks peak tuna migration around Gilbert Islands with 85% success rates for skipjack and yellowfin catches
Optimal sailing conditions with consistent 15-20 knot trade winds from northeast, perfect for inter-atoll travel and traditional sailing canoe experiences
Lowest tourist numbers of the year - you'll often have entire beaches and lagoons completely to yourself, especially on outer islands
Best visibility for diving and snorkeling at 30-40 m (98-131 ft) due to reduced plankton blooms and calmer seas after April's rougher weather

Considerations

Unpredictable rainfall patterns - while total rainfall is moderate, storms can arrive suddenly and last 2-4 hours, disrupting inter-island flights for days
Limited fresh produce availability as supply ships arrive irregularly during this transitional weather period, expect higher prices and fewer options
Some outer island accommodations close for maintenance between April and June, reducing already limited lodging options by about 30%

Best Activities in May

Deep Sea Fishing Expeditions

May is the absolute peak of tuna season around Kiribati waters. The convergence of warm and cool currents creates ideal feeding conditions for skipjack, yellowfin, and occasional marlin. Local captains report their highest success rates in May, with most half-day trips yielding multiple fish. The consistent trade winds make for comfortable conditions 15-25 km (9-16 miles) offshore.

Booking Tip: Book with locally licensed fishing guides 2-3 weeks ahead through your accommodation. Expect to pay typically A$200-350 per person for half-day trips including gear. Look for captains who provide traditional preparation of your catch. Reference current fishing tour options in the booking section below.

Traditional Sailing Canoe Adventures

May's northeast trade winds at 15-20 knots create perfect conditions for experiencing traditional te wa sailing canoes. These outrigger vessels have been used for inter-atoll navigation for centuries. The consistent wind direction and moderate seas make this the ideal month for multi-hour sailing experiences between motus or around lagoons.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local cultural centers or community groups 1-2 weeks ahead. Half-day experiences typically cost A$80-150 per person. Ensure your guide explains traditional navigation techniques. Current sailing experiences can be found in the booking section below.

Lagoon Snorkeling and Diving

May offers the year's best underwater visibility at 30-40 m (98-131 ft) with calm conditions inside the lagoons. Water temperature holds steady at 28°C (82°F). This is prime time for seeing Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks, and the incredible coral gardens that Kiribati is known for. The reduced plankton blooms make photography conditions exceptional.

Booking Tip: Book certified dive operators 10-14 days ahead through licensed facilities. Snorkeling trips typically cost A$60-120 per person, diving A$80-160 per dive including gear. Ensure operators follow marine park regulations. See current diving options in the booking section below.

Outer Island Cultural Stays

May's manageable weather makes it ideal for visiting outer islands like Abaiang or Maiana where traditional I-Kiribati life continues largely unchanged. With fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures, you'll experience authentic village life, traditional crafts, and community fishing. The moderate rainfall keeps vegetation lush while not disrupting daily activities.

Booking Tip: Arrange through the Kiribati National Tourism Office 3-4 weeks ahead. Community stays typically cost A$40-80 per night including meals. Bring gifts like tea, sugar, or school supplies. Transport costs vary widely A$200-600 depending on island and season.

WWII Historical Site Tours

May's comfortable temperatures and lower humidity make it ideal for exploring Betio's extensive WWII battlefields and bunkers. The cooler mornings are perfect for walking the 3-4 km (1.9-2.5 mile) historical trail. With fewer tourists, you'll have more personal interaction with local guides who often share family stories from the Battle of Tarawa.

Booking Tip: Contact local historical societies or your accommodation to arrange guided tours 1-2 weeks ahead. Expect A$30-60 per person for 3-4 hour tours. Start early morning to avoid afternoon heat. Current historical tour options available in the booking section below.

Bonefish Flats Fishing

May's consistent tides and clear lagoon waters create exceptional bonefishing conditions on the shallow flats. Early morning and late afternoon sessions yield the best results when fish feed actively. The steady trade winds help with casting, and water clarity allows sight-fishing opportunities rarely found elsewhere in the Pacific.

Booking Tip: Book specialized flats guides 2-3 weeks ahead through fly fishing lodges or local guides. Full-day trips typically cost A$250-400 including gear and lunch. Bring your own flies if possible - local supply is limited. Check current flats fishing options in the booking section below.

May Events & Festivals

Mid May

Te Ruoia Festival

This traditional flower festival celebrates the blooming season with elaborate flower competitions, traditional dancing, and community feasts. Villages compete in creating the most beautiful floral displays using local blooms that peak in May's climate.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket - May's showers arrive suddenly and can last 2-4 hours with little warning, essential for inter-island travel

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and you'll spend most time on or near water where reflection intensifies exposure

Quick-dry clothing in natural fabrics - 70% humidity makes synthetic materials uncomfortable, cotton and linen dry faster in trade winds

Sturdy water shoes with good grip - coral rubble and wet boat surfaces are standard, flip-flops are inadequate for most activities

Waterproof phone/camera protection - saltwater spray is constant on boats and sudden rain showers are common

Personal fishing gear if serious angler - local tackle selection is extremely limited and expensive, bring favorite lures and flies

Insect repellent with DEET - while not malaria risk, sand flies and mosquitoes are active during calm evening periods

Portable phone charger - power outages are common, especially during storms, and communication is crucial for inter-island travel

Small gifts for communities - tea, coffee, sugar, school supplies are appreciated if staying in village accommodations

Cash in small Australian dollar denominations - credit cards rarely accepted outside South Tarawa, ATMs are unreliable

Insider Knowledge

Air Kiribati flights get cancelled frequently in May due to sudden weather changes - always have 2-3 extra days buffer in your schedule and confirm flights the morning of departure

Local stores receive supply ships irregularly in May - stock up on snacks, medications, and personal items when you see them available, next shipment could be weeks away

The best fishing and diving spots are known locally as 'te aba' - ask guides to take you where locals fish for their families, not just tourist spots with depleted marine life

Village chiefs (te uea) must be formally introduced to visitors - your guide should arrange proper introductions with small gifts, this opens access to restricted areas and real feels

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking tight flight connections - Air Kiribati delays and cancellations are routine in May, travelers who don't build in extra days often miss international connections

Bringing only summer clothing - May mornings can be surprisingly cool at 25°C (77°F) with trade winds, pack at least one long-sleeve shirt and light pants

Expecting Western meal schedules - locals eat main meal at midday when it's cooler, many restaurants close 2-4pm, plan your day around local rhythms not tourist expectations