Official Language:
English
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Currency:
Australian Dollar
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Population:
Approximately 1600 people call Fanning Island home
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Fanning Island: The climate here is definately warm with an average of 92°F/33°C degrees! The late fall usually is the driest time of the year. Severe storms are rare. Most islands have an equatorial climate, while the islands to the extreme north and south of the group are tropical. November to April is the rainy season, with high humidity and stronger winds. Rainfall is not reliable and drought can be a problem for all the islands. The prevailing easterlies keep the climate pleasant, although temperatures can be high, 80-85°F (27-29°C) on average.
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If your cruise ship calls at Fanning (Tabuaeran) Island, you will find this island one of many forming the Line of Islands which are part of the Republic of Kiribati. Fanning Island lies approximately 250 miles north of the equator and 150 miles northwest of Christmas Island. The natives call it Tabueran, which means Footprint of Heaven and also gives away the shape of the island.
The Republic of Kiribati is comprised of thirty-three small islands spread out over 2,400 miles. The islands taken together only cover 342 square miles, an area about four times as large as Washington, D.C. Eight of the eleven Line Islands are part of Kiribati, as well as the Gilbert and Phoenix Groups of islands. In 1916, these islands became part of the British protectorate of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands. In 1977, they became part of the independent Republic of Kiribati. The island played a small role in World War II, and there are some monuments to the conflict that still stand. On the small island of Betio, the Battle of Tarawa took the lives of thousands of American and Japanese servicemen. The island is a living monument to the battle. Anglophiles will want to visit Abemama Island, where Captain Davis hoisted the Union Jack in 1892. Robert Louis Stevenson took up residence on this tiny island toward the end of his life.
American explorer Edmund Fanning discovered Fanning Island, one of the Line Islands, in 1798. Great Britain annexed the island in 1889, and it remained under British rule until the entire republic gained independence on July 12, 1979. The island was renamed Tabuaeran, which means heavenly footprint. However, Fanning Island is still the more recognized term, so for the interest of this guide, Fanning Island will be used. The island is just now opening up to tourism. What you will discover here are the white sand beaches that grace the cover of travel brochures, as well as exceptionally friendly local people. There are ample opportunities to snorkel and scuba dive. Fanning Island is where you'll want to take it easy for a day. The north point of the island is called Fenua-ura, located about four miles from the main area at English Harbour. Fenua-ura remains undeveloped and will be used for kayaking, sailing and lounging. On a half-mile-long beach it is said to be even prettier than the lagoon. Passengers can be taken from English Harbor to Fenua-ura in the ship's tenders. Kiribati played a small role in World War II, and there are some monuments to the conflict that still stand. On the small island of Betio, the Battle of Tarawa took the lives of thousands of American and Japanese servicemen. The island is a living monument to the battle.
Some cruise ships dock in English Harbor, on the west side of Fanning Island. Rough currents make docking on the other side impossible. However, some ships are too large to enter the harbor. These ships send small tender boats to the shore after docking at sea. Local Transportation in Fanning Island Water taxis travel between the tiny islands that surround Fanning Island. On the island itself, chances are that you'll spend most of your time walking or in organized tours, where transportation will be provided for you.
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Attractions |
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Fanning Island has opened its doors to tourism. Cruise passengers and all visitors are welcome here, as the locals are exceptionally friendly. The beaches here are superb. Come visit the white sand beaches that you thought only graced the cover of your travel brochures. There is plenty of snorkeling and diving. If you are looking for a place to kick back and relax for a day then Fanning Island is where you want to be. There are currently, two ways to get around Fanning Island: on foot or by bike. It's easy to walk from the center of activity into the heart of the island, renting bikes for $10 an hour and $5 for each additional hour. Walks and bike rides can be taken on a hard-packed dirt road. There are scooter rentals, a trolley to take passengers on island tours, and locals that lead organized walking tours. A great way to get acquainted with the Republic of Kiribati is by taking an organized tour. With the recent influx of tourism, lots of tour operators have sprung up. Among the more reputable are Molly Tours (tel. 686/26-409) and Mauri Paradise (tel. 686/21-646).
The Republic of Kiribati offers fabulous opportunities for people who love the outdoors. In addition to snorkeling and scuba diving, tourists can enjoy bird watching, fishing, and nature hikes. Bird watching excursions are organized through the government's Secretary for Ministry of Line and Phoenix Development (tel. 686/81-215). For fishing, you can contact the above-mentioned Mauri Paradise (tel. 686/21-646) or the Diving Club (tel. 686/21-255). Both also organize snorkeling and scuba diving trips around the islands. Surfing is another popular pastime on Fanning Island.
Beaches:
The beaches of Fanning Island remain fairly pristine and uncluttered. White sand is the norm here, as are clear seas teeming with underwater life. The beaches don't exactly have names here, so maybe you'll be the first to name them! Be advised that the ocean on the east side of the island is not as safe for swimming, as there are dangerous undertows and strong currents
Surfing:
Fanning Island is blessed with year round surf. It is situated halfway between Hawaii and Tahiti and half way between Australia and North America. For learning to surf the best time to visit is between November and March where there are some very user-friendly waves up at Whalers Anchorage. For surfers wanting to visit we have one summer time break only, it is a good left. The wave is more intimidate and advance surfers and not for learning. Not overly dangerous but technically difficult and close to rocky beach. In the winter, there are 3 breaks to choose from, a left and 2 rights. The main right at Whaler’s when small is a little like Rights and Lefts and Hammons Reef. It does not close out and what ever size Sunset Beach is, divide by 2 and minus 1 foot and a day later. It is always clean and the predominant wing is straight off shore. The is also a juicy left that also hold to big size and is powerful when big. My 16 foot skiff got caught inside this year and 2 boards that were in were broken at the same time. Its a long story as to how it happened. Further up the reef is a race track right that works on north swells. It is hollow and bowly.
All wave will hold to large size. The Right up there is very user friendly and it is possible for season long surfing lesions from October to March, if one had 4 months they could become quite a good surfer with me coaching. The bottom is safe and user friendly. And Shark are not a problem. For more information or lessons on cruise ship day contact Chuck Corbett at chuck@fanning-island.com
Festivals:
On July 12 Th., the Republic celebrates its Independence Day. If you are lucky enough to visit during this time, you will be treated to colorful parades and traditional dancing, along with canoe races and other competitions. On August 4 Th., Youth Day is observed, with more dancing and parades, all in honor of young people.
Shopping:
Fanning Island is just starting to become commercialized. Cruise ships only began visiting the island in the last five years. As a result, there is very little shopping to speak of. You'll be able to purchase hand-woven baskets and hats, as well as straw mats. Coconuts are everywhere on the island, so you can pick up a couple of those.
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More Information |
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Useful Links About Fanning Island:
Fanning Island Travel Information
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