Nature
Bikeman Island
Bikeman Island
Bikeman Island is a landmass in South Tarawa that has been gradually submerged since the early 1990s. Due to rising sea levels, much of the island is now flooded, with water reaching knee-deep levels in many areas. Travelers visit this site to observe the physical effects of climate change and the process of an island disappearing into the ocean.
Getting There
The island is accessible via canoe from Betio. The journey typically takes approximately 30 minutes across the water.
Duration of Visit
Visitors should allow a few hours to navigate the flooded terrain and observe the landscape. The time spent depends on the pace of the canoe transport and the areas explored on foot through the water.
When to Visit
Visitors should be prepared for wet conditions, as walking through knee-deep water is a requirement to explore the site. It is advisable to check local weather and tide conditions before departing from the mainland.
Nearby Attractions
This site can be combined with other points of interest in the region:
- Betio: 8.2km (the primary departure point for canoes to the island).
- Sacred Heart Cathedral: 5.7km.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors