Line Islands

The Line Islands are a chain of atolls and low coral islands in the central Pacific Ocean, administered mostly by the Republic of Kiribati. The group includes major atolls such as Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Tabuaeran (Fanning) and Teraina (Washington), and is notable for its remoteness and oceanic ecosystems.

The islands host extensive seabird colonies, reef habitats and lagoons that attract interest from scientists and specialist visitors. Kiritimati is the largest atoll by land area within the group and supports large lagoon environments and coastal bird populations; other atolls have freshwater lenses and traditional village communities.

European contact with the Line Islands dates from the 18th century and several islands later became strategically important in the 20th century. Kiritimati was used for military and scientific purposes during the 20th century, including nuclear test activities in the 1950s and 1960s.

Geographically the Line Islands lie in the central Pacific, straddling the equatorial region well east of the Gilbert Islands; they are remote from major continental landmasses and are spread over large ocean distances within Kiribati’s territory.

• Wildlife and infrastructure: Contains a mix of low coral atolls and reef islands that are important seabird nesting sites and local fisheries; facilities for visitors are limited outside the main inhabited atolls.

What to See #

• Kiritimati (Christmas Island): The largest atoll in the group and one of the world's largest coral atolls by land area, supporting a large lagoon and significant seabird colonies.
• Tabuaeran (Fanning): A coral atoll also known as Fanning Island, with a central lagoon and traditional island settlements; part of Kiribati's northern Line Islands.
• Teraina (Washington): A forested island known locally as Washington Island, with a freshwater lens and traditional village communities.