Kiribati
South Tarawa
South Tarawa is the capital of Kiribati, linked to Tarawa, the country's former capital.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Bonriki International Airport (TRW)
- Best season
- Aug, Nov
- Time zone
- Pacific/Tarawa
- Sights covered
- 3 places
Sights worth seeing
Nature
Betio
Betio is an islet at the southwestern tip of Tarawa Atoll and the largest district of South Tarawa, Kiribati's capital. It was the site of fierce fighting during the Battle of Tarawa in World War II, making it worth a visit for history enthusiasts.
Nature
Bikeman Island
An island about 30 minutes by canoe from Betio that has been gradually submerged since the early 1990s and is now flooded knee-deep. It's a unique place to witness a disappearing island firsthand.
Temples & religious sites
Sacred Heart Cathedral
Sacred Heart Cathedral stands in South Tarawa, on Tarawa Atoll in Kiribati. It's a quiet piece of religious architecture in this South Pacific island nation, well worth a brief visit.
How many days do you need?
Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.
Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
Check flights to South Tarawa first
Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Bonriki International Airport (TRW).
Check fares and seat availability on the flight search site.
Getting around the city
Book transport
Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.
South Tarawa Tours & Experiences Booking
Book local tours, tickets, and experiences in advance to enjoy without waiting. Check available products and prices now.
GetYourGuide
Klook
Tiqets
KKday
WeGoTrip
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
Yesim
Saily
Drimsim
Where to stay
See all stays →Pick your dates — we'll search South Tarawa hotels for you
Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.
View on Booking.com
View on Hotels.com
Hotel membership
Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer
A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.
Explore the membership
Visit stories: South Tarawa
Have you been to this city?
Share your visit story with photos you took yourself. Once checked, it goes into the Magazine.
Guides by theme
Best value
How to find value accommodation in South Tarawa, Kiribati
Read guide →
5-star & luxury
Where to find luxury accommodations in South Tarawa, Kiribati
Read guide →
Pool villas & resorts
How to choose a pool villa or resort stay in South Tarawa, Kiribati
Read guide →
Family travel
How to choose family-friendly accommodation in South Tarawa, Kiribati
Read guide →
Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in South Tarawa for couples and honeymooners
Read guide →
Central & near stations
Where to stay in South Tarawa for central access
Read guide →
Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit South Tarawa, Kiribati?
Read guide →
First-time guide
How to visit South Tarawa, Kiribati for the first time
Read guide →
Getting around
How to get around South Tarawa, Kiribati
Read guide →