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South Tarawa

South Tarawa is the capital and hub of the Republic of Kiribati, serving as the country's main population centre and economic heart. This Pacific island destination consists of a chain of small islets connected by road, offering a distinctive tropical experience.

Quick facts

Population
63,439 (city)
Currency
Australian dollar (AUD)
Language
English, Gilbertese
Timezone
+12 (UTC+12)
Local time now
07:07:30

Hotels in South Tarawa

South Tarawa offers a range of accommodation options for visitors to Kiribati's capital. Hotels and lodges in the area include Travellers Inn, Fema Lodge, and Marry's Motel, providing choices for different travel needs and budgets. See all hotels →

Travellers Inn
662 m from centre
Fema Lodge
1.8 km from centre
Fema Lodge
1.8 km from centre

Airports in South Tarawa

See all airports →

Bonriki International Airport
12.6 km from centre
Maiana Airport
38.4 km from centre

Car Hire in South Tarawa

We're still gathering car hire listings for South Tarawa — check back soon.

Things to Do in South Tarawa

South Tarawa offers visitors a range of cultural and historical attractions to explore. From the spiritual significance of Sacred Heart Cathedral to the traditional crafts at Itoiningaina Handicraft Center, there are several notable places to discover in this Pacific island capital. See all things to do →

Eita
3.5 km from centre
Itoiningaina Handicraft Center
3.8 km from centre
Sacred Heart Cathedral
3.9 km from centre
Galloping Gus
6.8 km from centre

Restaurants in South Tarawa

South Tarawa offers a selection of dining venues serving both local and international cuisine. Options include establishments like Chinese Dragon Restaurant, Oriental Seafood Restaurant, Koakoa's Corner, and George Hotel Bar, providing visitors and residents with varied culinary choices across the capital. See all restaurants →

Chinese Dragon Restaurant
chinese · 567 m from centre
Utirerei
679 m from centre
Koakoa's Corner
regional · 1.8 km from centre

Swimming Pools in South Tarawa

We're still gathering swimming pools listings for South Tarawa — check back soon.

Spas in South Tarawa

We're still gathering spas listings for South Tarawa — check back soon.

Nightlife in South Tarawa

We're still gathering nightlife listings for South Tarawa — check back soon.

Bars in South Tarawa

South Tarawa offers a selection of bars where visitors and locals can enjoy drinks and socialize. The Lagoon Club stands out as a notable venue in the area. See all bars →

Lagoon Club
643 m from centre

Cafes in South Tarawa

We're still gathering cafes listings for South Tarawa — check back soon.

Shopping in South Tarawa

South Tarawa offers visitors the chance to explore local shopping, with options like the Kiribati Handicraft Shop where you can find authentic island crafts and goods. Shopping in the capital provides a genuine glimpse into the local culture and traditional wares of Kiribati. See all shopping →

Kiribati Handicraft Shop
6.9 km from centre

Nature & Wildlife in South Tarawa

South Tarawa offers visitors the chance to experience the unique natural environment of a Pacific atoll. From coastal areas to local attractions like Bairiki Square, the region showcases Kiribati's distinctive wildlife and marine ecosystems. See all nature & wildlife →

Amusement Park
4.2 km from centre
Amusement Park
4.2 km from centre
Bairiki Square
7.0 km from centre
TTRP
9.8 km from centre
rsbvgsf
9.8 km from centre
China Park
9.8 km from centre

Climate snapshot

South Tarawa experiences a tropical climate typical of the Pacific equatorial region, with warm temperatures year-round. The area is subject to seasonal weather patterns, with distinct wet and dry periods throughout the year.

Interesting Facts About South Tarawa — Weird & Wonderful

  • South Tarawa is home to more than half of Kiribati's entire population, making it the clear demographic centre of the nation.
  • The South Tarawa population centre stretches from Betio in the west to Bonriki and Tanaea in the north-east, all connected by the South Tarawa main road.
  • South Tarawa functions as both the capital and the main hub for the Republic of Kiribati.

Frequently Asked Questions About South Tarawa

What is the currency used in South Tarawa?

The currency used in Kiribati is the Australian dollar (AUD), which is also used in South Tarawa.

What language is spoken in South Tarawa?

The primary languages spoken in South Tarawa are Kiribati (Gilbertese) and English.

Is South Tarawa the largest city in Kiribati?

Yes, South Tarawa is the capital and hub of Kiribati, and home to more than half of the country's population.

What is the timezone in South Tarawa?

South Tarawa operates on Pacific/Tarawa timezone.

How is South Tarawa structured geographically?

South Tarawa consists of a chain of small islets stretching from Betio in the west to Bonriki and Tanaea in the north-east, all connected by the South Tarawa main road.

Map of South Tarawa

View larger map · © OpenStreetMap contributors