Newsletter

Welcome to Kiritimati & Line Island

Kiritimati Island is the first island in the world to welcome each new day. That’s right, each new day begins in Kiritimati Island.

The island is better known for its world-class saltwater fly fishing where you can fish for bonefish, giant trevally, marlin, tuna, and other species. 

It is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds, including the endemic Kiritimati frigate bird.

Go diving and snorkeling in Kiritimati Island and you will be fascinated by its diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and dolphins. You can also explore shipwrecks and coral reefs.

A boat tour of the Kiritimati lagoon will introduce you to manta rays, dolphins, and other marine life. You can also visit uninhabited islets and learn about the local culture.

Kiritimati Island is also a surfing destination with several good surf spots, including the world-famous London Walls.

Here are some facts about Kiritimati Island

  • Kiritimati Island, also known as Christmas Island, is the world’s largest coral atoll
  • The atoll was discovered by Captain James Cook on the eve of December 24, 1777, during his third Pacific voyage. He named it “Christmas Island.”
  • Kiritimati Island is in the world’s farthest forward time zone, UTC+14, and is one of the first inhabited places on Earth to experience the New Year.

During the post-war period of World War II, Kiritimati was occupied by British and American Allied forces and was a testing ground for nuclear and hydrogen bombs.

TARAWA

Kiritimati