Tarawa Weather in December

December weather

December feels hot, sticky and often cloudy. The air stays close to 28°C, and rain falls on about half the days. Showers can interrupt beach time, and the modest sunshine makes long, exposed outings less appealing.

You can still enjoy a swim or explore South Tarawa between showers. Keep indoor stops, such as the Kiribati National Museum in Bairiki, in your day's mix. Avoid relying on dry weather for a full day outside. The lagoon can be lovely, but don't let a cloudy forecast spoil your plans.

Christmas on Tarawa

Christmas is a major holiday in Kiribati, with church services and family gatherings. You may notice a more festive feel in local communities, though many businesses can close or change their hours on the day.

If you're travelling with kids, a Christmas service can offer a warm glimpse of local life. Be respectful when visiting a church, and ask before taking photos.

Crowds and practical tips

October and November are better months for weather, so December is a less appealing choice for visitors focused on sunshine. It isn't possible to say from weather data alone whether flights or accommodation cost less than in other months. Christmas can also bring local travel and closed services, so don't assume everything runs as usual.

Rain can make trips along South Tarawa's narrow main road slower, especially near the causeways linking areas such as Bairiki and Betio. Leave extra time if you're heading to Betio's Second World War sites, and check locally whether your chosen stop is accessible after heavy showers.