Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
mixed
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
desirable
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Fanning Island Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +31.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Fanning Island Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Fanning Island Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — mixed. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Fanning Island Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Fanning Island Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is June. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Fanning Island Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Fanning Island Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: mosquitoes, sandflies, sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Fanning Island Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Fanning Island Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: No restaurants. Cuisines available: Kiribati. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Fanning Island Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Headwear, Mosquito repellent, First aid kit.
Fanning Island Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for surfing is from April to October. For snorkelling — morning, when the water is calmer.
Fanning Island Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Respect local customs. Take your trash with you. Ask permission before photographing locals.
Fanning Island Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Fanning Island Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for adventure seekers and snorkelling and surfing enthusiasts. Suitable for experienced travellers. Not suitable for families with small children.
Fanning Island Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Tabuaeran, also known as Fanning, is a footprint-shaped atoll, reflected in its local name "heavenly footprint". The island was discovered by American explorer Edmund Fanning in 1798. It is one of the best places in Kiribati for surfing with almost year-round consistent swell.
Fanning Island Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sandy beach, Crystal-clear water, Excellent snorkelling and surfing conditions, Rich underwater world, Warm water year-round, Authentic Kiribati culture, Scenic coconut palms. Cons: Very remote location, Limited infrastructure, No tourist amenities, Mosquitoes and sandflies, No lifeguards, Large coral pieces on the shore in some places.
Fanning Island Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Tabuaeran Lagoon, Surf Breaks, Coconut Plantations. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Fanning Island Beach: how do I get to the city of Tabuaeran?
The beach is located near the city of Tabuaeran. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Tabuaeran.