A long layover in Beru Island is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Beru Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 45 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BEZ:
First, verify that you can enter Kiribati — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Private Transfer/Taxi takes about 45 minutes into Beru Island, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — AUD is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Beru Island from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Beru Island is the Private Transfer/Taxi, which takes about 45 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 65 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Private Transfer/Taxi is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Beru Island Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Beru Island layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$7 |
| Meal | ~$14 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$31 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near BEZ
Specific locker facilities at BEZ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Beru Island itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Beru Island:
Start with Tabiaue Village Walk. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Beru Island Beach Stroll. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BEZ, check out Observing Air Kiribati Operations or Relax in the Terminal Waiting Area to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near BEZ
For food in Beru Island, local travelers recommend Tabiaue Village Local Eatery. If you have time for a second stop, Beru Island Guesthouse Dining (Example) is another popular pick.
Back at BEZ, Airport Snack Bar (Kai Bar) is the go-to. Local Provisions Stand rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at BEZ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Kiribati also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at BEZ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Beru Island itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Kiribati that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Beru Island with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Beru Island may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.