Kanton Island - Discovering Kiribati

Travelling to Kanton Island

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kanton Island, a pretty good destination in Kiribati (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kanton Island and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kanton Island, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Kiribati, here's everything to know about Kanton Island for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kanton Island

Kanton Island is a coral atoll and part of the Phoenix Islands in the Republic of Kiribati, located in the central Pacific Ocean. It has a land area of approximately 9.5 square kilometers and a population of about 50 people. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for fishing, diving, and snorkeling. The island also has an airstrip and basic facilities for tourists, although it is still relatively undeveloped compared to other Pacific island destinations.

What to visit in Kanton Island

Kanton Island, also known as Abariringa Island, is a small coral atoll located in the South Pacific Ocean and is part of the Republic of Kiribati. Here are some of the main tourist attractions on Kanton Island: 1. Laura Beach: This stunning beach on the eastern side of the island is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The crystal-clear water is home to a variety of colorful marine life, including sea turtles, tropical fish, and dolphins.
2. The wreck of the USS President Coolidge: This World War II-era shipwreck lies just offshore from Kanton Island and is a popular diving destination. The ship is very well preserved and visitors can explore its various rooms and compartments, including the engine room, galley, and swimming pool.
3. Kanton Island Lagoon: Surrounded by a beautiful coral reef, the lagoon on Kanton Island is a great place to go snorkeling or scuba diving. Visitors can see a wide variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures while exploring the lagoon's many coral formations.
4. Lighthouse Beach: This secluded beach on the northern end of the island is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the white sandy beach, watch for sea birds, or simply soak up the sun while listening to the sound of the waves.
5. The Popped Bubble: This unique rock formation on the southwestern side of Kanton Island is a popular spot for photography. The distinctive rock is shaped like a bubble that has been popped, with a large hole in the center that allows visitors to walk through it. Overall, Kanton Island is a beautiful and remote destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the South Pacific.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Kiribati, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kanton Island

The best time to visit Kanton Island in Kiribati is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, you can expect pleasant weather with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and crowds.
If you prefer a quieter and more affordable trip, consider going during the off-season from November to April. Keep in mind that this period may have occasional rain showers and higher humidity, but it is still a great time to visit Kanton Island.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kanton Island

Kanton Island, also known as Abariringa Island, is a remote island located in the Pacific Ocean and is part of Kiribati. It is not a very popular tourist destination, so there are limited transportation options available. The best way to get to Kanton Island is by flying from Tarawa, the capital of Kiribati. There are only a few flights per year that are operated by the national airline, Air Kiribati. You can check their website for flight schedules and fares.
It's important to note that flights are subject to change and cancellation due to weather conditions and other factors. It's recommended to book your flight well in advance and to have a flexible schedule in case of any unforeseen changes.
Another option to get to Kanton Island is by yacht or cruise ship. However, this is a more expensive and time-consuming option.
Make sure to plan ahead, as there are limited accommodations and facilities on Kanton Island.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kanton Island, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kanton Island

Kanton Island is an island in Kiribati that has a unique cuisine influenced by the island's remote location and subsistence-based economy. Here are some typical foods you may find on Kanton Island: 1. Seafood - Kanton Island is surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean and has an abundance of seafood such as fish, lobster, crab, and octopus. The seafood is often grilled, boiled, or steamed and served with coconut milk and rice.
2. Coconut - Coconut is very versatile and is used in many dishes on Kanton Island. The coconut meat can be used to make delicious desserts, while the coconut milk and oil are used in many cooking recipes.
3. Breadfruit - Breadfruit is a starchy fruit that is commonly found on Kanton Island. It is often cooked in an underground oven and served with fish or other meats. Breadfruit can also be made into chips or used as a substitute for potatoes.
4. Pandanus - The pandanus fruit is another staple in the diet of Kanton Island. It is often used to flavor food, added to coconut milk to make desserts, or used as a wrapping for steamed or roasted fish.
5. Tuna - Tuna is a popular fish on Kanton Island and is often preserved in salt or smoked. It can be eaten as a snack or added to soups and stews.
Overall, the cuisine on Kanton Island is simple, flavorful, and utilizes fresh, local ingredients that are readily available on the island.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kiribati here.

Is Kanton Island an expensive destination for tourists?

Kanton Island is a remote and less-traveled destination, and hence, the cost of traveling to this island can be relatively high. There are limited options for transportation, accommodation, and dining on the island, which can contribute to higher expenses.
Moreover, as the island is a part of Kiribati, the cost of obtaining the necessary visas and permits to enter and travel around the country also adds to the overall expenses.
Overall, Kanton Island may be considered a relatively expensive destination compared to popular tourist spots. It is recommended that you research and plan your trip carefully to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience while keeping the cost in mind.

Where to find accomodation in Kanton Island

Kanton Island is a remote and mostly uninhabited atoll located in the Phoenix Islands of Kiribati. There is only one small hotel on Kanton Island, but it is typically reserved for visiting government officials or scientists. If you are planning a trip to Kanton Island, the best option for accommodation is likely to be a live-aboard diving or fishing boat. These boats will provide all necessary accommodations and will allow you to explore the surrounding waters and reefs. Alternatively, if you need to stay on land, the nearest accommodations are located on Christmas Island, which is approximately 530 miles to the west of Kanton Island. There, you will find a variety of hotels and guesthouses to choose from.
You can check hotel prices at Kanton Island here:
Booking.com

Is Kanton Island a safe destination for tourists?

Kanton Island is a sparsely populated island and can be considered generally safe for tourists. However, it is important to take precautions and be mindful of your surroundings. Petty crime such as theft can occur, so it is advisable to keep valuables secured and not leave them unattended. Additionally, visitors should be aware of any local customs and laws, and follow them to avoid any misunderstandings or legal issues. It is always recommended to research and prepare adequately before traveling to any destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Kiribati here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kanton Island.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kanton Island the most?

Kanton Island is a remote destination and is not ideal for everyone. It would be best suited for adventurous and nature-loving travelers, especially those who enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, and birdwatching.
As it is an isolated island with limited services, it may not be the best destination for families with young children or travelers who require modern amenities and facilities.
However, for couples or groups of independent and adventurous travelers, Kanton Island can offer a unique and unforgettable experience. It would also be an excellent choice for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.

How to get around Kanton Island

Kanton Island is a small and sparsely populated coral atoll in Kiribati. There is no public transportation system on the island. To move around, you can hire a vehicle or use a bicycle, which is easy to rent on the island. Many visitors also prefer to walk, as the island is small and relatively easy to navigate. However, as there are no sidewalks or streetlights, it's important to take caution while walking at night.

What to see around Kanton Island

Kanton Island is pretty remote and there are no attraction spots or cities on the island. However, there are some uninhabited coral atolls nearby that you could potentially visit for a day trip. Here are a few of them: 1. Starbuck Island: This uninhabited atoll is located approximately 50km north of Kanton Island. It is known for its beautiful lagoon, white sand beaches, and diverse marine life. Visitors can go snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on the beaches.
2. Carondelet Reef: This is also an uninhabited coral atoll, closer to Kanton Island, located approximately 8km to the northeast. The atoll has a large lagoon and beautiful coral gardens that are perfect for snorkeling and diving.
3. Vostok Island: This small island is located approximately 20km northwest of Kanton Island. Visitors can go ashore and explore the island's rugged terrain, or snorkel and explore the surrounding coral reefs.
Please note that these atolls are remote and transportation can be difficult to arrange. It is recommended to contact local tour operators for up-to-date information on available tours and transportation.
For every travel information about Kiribati you can click here.

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