Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're curious about accommodation, local attractions, or cultural insights, our FAQ section provides essential information to help you plan your adventure with confidence.

Whether you're curious about accommodation, local attractions, or cultural insights, our FAQ section provides essential information to help you plan your adventure with confidence.

Getting Here & Travel Info

Getting Here & Travel Info

Getting Here & Travel Info

Where exactly is Fanning Huts located?

We’re based in Paelau, near the English Channel on the southern side of the island. The huts are about a 5–7 minute walk from the channel, on the lagoon side, facing calm blue waters. You can even rent bikes from us to explore the area.

Where exactly is Fanning Huts located?

We’re based in Paelau, near the English Channel on the southern side of the island. The huts are about a 5–7 minute walk from the channel, on the lagoon side, facing calm blue waters. You can even rent bikes from us to explore the area.

Where exactly is Fanning Huts located?

We’re based in Paelau, near the English Channel on the southern side of the island. The huts are about a 5–7 minute walk from the channel, on the lagoon side, facing calm blue waters. You can even rent bikes from us to explore the area.

What’s the best way to get to Fanning Island from Kiritimati (Christmas Island)?

Once you arrive at Christmas Island (CXI) from Fiji or Hawaii, we’ll take care of everything from there. Flights to Fanning Island are operated by Air Kiribati — usually twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Although these flights may not appear on their website, we work directly with local agents to handle all bookings for you.

What’s the best way to get to Fanning Island from Kiritimati (Christmas Island)?

Once you arrive at Christmas Island (CXI) from Fiji or Hawaii, we’ll take care of everything from there. Flights to Fanning Island are operated by Air Kiribati — usually twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Although these flights may not appear on their website, we work directly with local agents to handle all bookings for you.

What’s the best way to get to Fanning Island from Kiritimati (Christmas Island)?

Once you arrive at Christmas Island (CXI) from Fiji or Hawaii, we’ll take care of everything from there. Flights to Fanning Island are operated by Air Kiribati — usually twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Although these flights may not appear on their website, we work directly with local agents to handle all bookings for you.

Typical travel schedule

Guests usually arrive on Wednesday, stay overnight at one of our partner accommodations on Christmas Island (a local-style stay we arrange), then fly to Fanning Island on Thursday. The return flight is on Tuesday, connecting conveniently with your international departure from Christmas Island on Wednesday. We can handle all flight and ground arrangements on your behalf.

Typical travel schedule

Guests usually arrive on Wednesday, stay overnight at one of our partner accommodations on Christmas Island (a local-style stay we arrange), then fly to Fanning Island on Thursday. The return flight is on Tuesday, connecting conveniently with your international departure from Christmas Island on Wednesday. We can handle all flight and ground arrangements on your behalf.

Typical travel schedule

Guests usually arrive on Wednesday, stay overnight at one of our partner accommodations on Christmas Island (a local-style stay we arrange), then fly to Fanning Island on Thursday. The return flight is on Tuesday, connecting conveniently with your international departure from Christmas Island on Wednesday. We can handle all flight and ground arrangements on your behalf.

Are there baggage limits?

Yes. Air Kiribati allows one carry-on and one checked bag (up to 15 kg / 33 lbs). Extra luggage can be left on Christmas Island.

Are there baggage limits?

Yes. Air Kiribati allows one carry-on and one checked bag (up to 15 kg / 33 lbs). Extra luggage can be left on Christmas Island.

Are there baggage limits?

Yes. Air Kiribati allows one carry-on and one checked bag (up to 15 kg / 33 lbs). Extra luggage can be left on Christmas Island.

Do I need medical evacuation insurance?

Yes, this is also required. Fanning is remote, and while there’s a nurse on the island, there’s no hospital or advanced medical facility.

Do I need medical evacuation insurance?

Yes, this is also required. Fanning is remote, and while there’s a nurse on the island, there’s no hospital or advanced medical facility.

Do I need medical evacuation insurance?

Yes, this is also required. Fanning is remote, and while there’s a nurse on the island, there’s no hospital or advanced medical facility.

What if I need to cancel?

Cancellations within 60 days of your trip start date will result in a 50% deposit forfeiture.

What if I need to cancel?

Cancellations within 60 days of your trip start date will result in a 50% deposit forfeiture.

What if I need to cancel?

Cancellations within 60 days of your trip start date will result in a 50% deposit forfeiture.

Staying at Fanning Huts

Staying at Fanning Huts

Staying at Fanning Huts

What are the huts like?

Our huts are simple, traditional island huts — built by local hands with natural materials. Each one includes a bed, bedding, mosquito net, and towel. It’s not fancy, but it’s the real Fanning Island experience — peaceful, natural, and honest.

What are the huts like?

Our huts are simple, traditional island huts — built by local hands with natural materials. Each one includes a bed, bedding, mosquito net, and towel. It’s not fancy, but it’s the real Fanning Island experience — peaceful, natural, and honest.

What are the huts like?

Our huts are simple, traditional island huts — built by local hands with natural materials. Each one includes a bed, bedding, mosquito net, and towel. It’s not fancy, but it’s the real Fanning Island experience — peaceful, natural, and honest.

Do the huts have water and bathrooms?

Yes. We have shared bathroom facilities with running water, toilets, and a shower. The water comes from the aquifer and is suitable for washing (but not for drinking).

Do the huts have water and bathrooms?

Yes. We have shared bathroom facilities with running water, toilets, and a shower. The water comes from the aquifer and is suitable for washing (but not for drinking).

Do the huts have water and bathrooms?

Yes. We have shared bathroom facilities with running water, toilets, and a shower. The water comes from the aquifer and is suitable for washing (but not for drinking).

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. We collect and filter rainwater for drinking and always keep filtered water available for our guests.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. We collect and filter rainwater for drinking and always keep filtered water available for our guests.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. We collect and filter rainwater for drinking and always keep filtered water available for our guests.

Do you have electricity and Wi-Fi?

Yes. We use solar power for lights and charging small devices, and Starlink Wi-Fi keeps you connected if needed (though many guests love taking a digital break). Bringing a small power bank is a good idea for extra charging.

Do you have electricity and Wi-Fi?

Yes. We use solar power for lights and charging small devices, and Starlink Wi-Fi keeps you connected if needed (though many guests love taking a digital break). Bringing a small power bank is a good idea for extra charging.

Do you have electricity and Wi-Fi?

Yes. We use solar power for lights and charging small devices, and Starlink Wi-Fi keeps you connected if needed (though many guests love taking a digital break). Bringing a small power bank is a good idea for extra charging.

Food & Daily Life

Food & Daily Life

Food & Daily Life

What’s included with meals?

All stays include three meals per day, prepared with local ingredients. We source most of our food fresh from the ocean and the island — tuna, lobster, crab, breadfruit, papaya, pumpkin, and more. Essentials like rice and pantry items are imported. Meals are homemade and hearty — the kind you’d share with family.

What’s included with meals?

All stays include three meals per day, prepared with local ingredients. We source most of our food fresh from the ocean and the island — tuna, lobster, crab, breadfruit, papaya, pumpkin, and more. Essentials like rice and pantry items are imported. Meals are homemade and hearty — the kind you’d share with family.

What’s included with meals?

All stays include three meals per day, prepared with local ingredients. We source most of our food fresh from the ocean and the island — tuna, lobster, crab, breadfruit, papaya, pumpkin, and more. Essentials like rice and pantry items are imported. Meals are homemade and hearty — the kind you’d share with family.

Can I bring snacks or special food items?

Yes! We recommend bringing any favorite snacks or special items you might want during your stay.

Can I bring snacks or special food items?

Yes! We recommend bringing any favorite snacks or special items you might want during your stay.

Can I bring snacks or special food items?

Yes! We recommend bringing any favorite snacks or special items you might want during your stay.

Do you have refrigeration?

Yes, we have a small solar-powered freezer for storing basic items.

Do you have refrigeration?

Yes, we have a small solar-powered freezer for storing basic items.

Do you have refrigeration?

Yes, we have a small solar-powered freezer for storing basic items.

Fishing, Surfing & Activities

Fishing, Surfing & Activities

Fishing, Surfing & Activities

What kind of fishing is available?

Fanning offers incredible fly fishing on the flats for bonefish, trevally, and more. Offshore, there are tuna and other pelagic species when the weather allows. We don’t offer spin fishing in the lagoon — it helps protect the natural balance of our waters.

What kind of fishing is available?

Fanning offers incredible fly fishing on the flats for bonefish, trevally, and more. Offshore, there are tuna and other pelagic species when the weather allows. We don’t offer spin fishing in the lagoon — it helps protect the natural balance of our waters.

What kind of fishing is available?

Fanning offers incredible fly fishing on the flats for bonefish, trevally, and more. Offshore, there are tuna and other pelagic species when the weather allows. We don’t offer spin fishing in the lagoon — it helps protect the natural balance of our waters.

Where are the surf breaks?

We’re near the English Channel, one of Fanning’s best-known surf spots — just a short walk or quick paddle from the huts.

Where are the surf breaks?

We’re near the English Channel, one of Fanning’s best-known surf spots — just a short walk or quick paddle from the huts.

Where are the surf breaks?

We’re near the English Channel, one of Fanning’s best-known surf spots — just a short walk or quick paddle from the huts.

When is the best time for surfing?

Fanning Island gets swells from both the north and south, meaning waves can break year-round. However, the best surf conditions at the English Channel are typically between April 15th and July 15th — confirmed by the late Chuck Corbett, a legendary surfer who lived and surfed here for years.

When is the best time for surfing?

Fanning Island gets swells from both the north and south, meaning waves can break year-round. However, the best surf conditions at the English Channel are typically between April 15th and July 15th — confirmed by the late Chuck Corbett, a legendary surfer who lived and surfed here for years.

When is the best time for surfing?

Fanning Island gets swells from both the north and south, meaning waves can break year-round. However, the best surf conditions at the English Channel are typically between April 15th and July 15th — confirmed by the late Chuck Corbett, a legendary surfer who lived and surfed here for years.

What are the boats like?

We use simple 18–20 ft open skiffs with outboard motors — great for reaching the flats or heading out toward the channel.

What are the boats like?

We use simple 18–20 ft open skiffs with outboard motors — great for reaching the flats or heading out toward the channel.

What are the boats like?

We use simple 18–20 ft open skiffs with outboard motors — great for reaching the flats or heading out toward the channel.

Do you provide gear?

Guests usually bring their own gear, but we’ll send a recommended packing list after you book.

Do you provide gear?

Guests usually bring their own gear, but we’ll send a recommended packing list after you book.

Do you provide gear?

Guests usually bring their own gear, but we’ll send a recommended packing list after you book.

Are there other things to do besides fishing?

Absolutely. Fanning is full of life and beauty. You can: Surf (two breaks work great from May to September) Snorkel in crystal-clear water Swim or paddle in the lagoon Visit the village and meet local families Relax in a hammock and enjoy island time

Are there other things to do besides fishing?

Absolutely. Fanning is full of life and beauty. You can: Surf (two breaks work great from May to September) Snorkel in crystal-clear water Swim or paddle in the lagoon Visit the village and meet local families Relax in a hammock and enjoy island time

Are there other things to do besides fishing?

Absolutely. Fanning is full of life and beauty. You can: Surf (two breaks work great from May to September) Snorkel in crystal-clear water Swim or paddle in the lagoon Visit the village and meet local families Relax in a hammock and enjoy island time

Health, Safety & Comfort

Health, Safety & Comfort

Health, Safety & Comfort

Are there medical facilities on the island?

There’s a nurse on Fanning, but no doctor or hospital. That’s why we require medical evacuation insurance and recommend guests be in good health and reasonably mobile.

Are there medical facilities on the island?

There’s a nurse on Fanning, but no doctor or hospital. That’s why we require medical evacuation insurance and recommend guests be in good health and reasonably mobile.

Are there medical facilities on the island?

There’s a nurse on Fanning, but no doctor or hospital. That’s why we require medical evacuation insurance and recommend guests be in good health and reasonably mobile.

Is this trip suitable for everyone?

Fanning is remote and rustic — ideal for travelers who love nature, simplicity, and genuine connection. It’s not a resort, but it’s perfect if you want to unplug and experience real island life.

Is this trip suitable for everyone?

Fanning is remote and rustic — ideal for travelers who love nature, simplicity, and genuine connection. It’s not a resort, but it’s perfect if you want to unplug and experience real island life.

Is this trip suitable for everyone?

Fanning is remote and rustic — ideal for travelers who love nature, simplicity, and genuine connection. It’s not a resort, but it’s perfect if you want to unplug and experience real island life.

Are there bugs or mosquitoes?

Yes, like anywhere tropical. We provide mosquito nets and recommend bringing repellent. Usually, the sea breeze keeps them away.

Are there bugs or mosquitoes?

Yes, like anywhere tropical. We provide mosquito nets and recommend bringing repellent. Usually, the sea breeze keeps them away.

Are there bugs or mosquitoes?

Yes, like anywhere tropical. We provide mosquito nets and recommend bringing repellent. Usually, the sea breeze keeps them away.

Money & Gratuities

Money & Gratuities

Money & Gratuities

What kind of fishing is available?

Kiribati uses the Australian Dollar (AUD).

What kind of fishing is available?

Kiribati uses the Australian Dollar (AUD).

What kind of fishing is available?

Kiribati uses the Australian Dollar (AUD).

Are gratuities expected?

Tips are never required but always appreciated. A common guide is: Guides: $80–100 AUD per day Boatmen: $20–40 AUD per day Lodge staff: $10–20 AUD per day (at the end of your stay)

Are gratuities expected?

Tips are never required but always appreciated. A common guide is: Guides: $80–100 AUD per day Boatmen: $20–40 AUD per day Lodge staff: $10–20 AUD per day (at the end of your stay)

Are gratuities expected?

Tips are never required but always appreciated. A common guide is: Guides: $80–100 AUD per day Boatmen: $20–40 AUD per day Lodge staff: $10–20 AUD per day (at the end of your stay)

Rates & Inclusions

Rates & Inclusions

Rates & Inclusions

What’s the cost per person for one week?

A 1-week package including:

  • Roundtrip flights from Christmas Island to Fanning Island

  • Meals (3 per day)

  • Transit accommodations on Christmas Island (before and after your Fanning stay)

  • All ground and boat transportation
    costs approximately $3,000 USD per person per week.

What’s included:

✔ Private hut accommodation
✔ Meals
✔ Airport and inter-island transfers
✔ Local activities and cultural experiences
✔ Wi-Fi and solar power access

Not included:

✘ Travel insurance
✘ Fishing gear
✘ Personal expenses and tips

Why Choose Fanning Huts?

Why Choose Fanning Huts?

Why Choose Fanning Huts?

Because this isn’t just a place to stay — it’s our home.

We’re a local family who grew up here and now welcome travelers from around the world to experience the real Fanning Island. You’ll eat what we eat, surf where we surf, and see the island through our eyes.

Come for the waves, the peace, and the people — stay for the connection.