Banana

Banana (formerly known as Banana Wells) is a settlement on Kiritimati (Christmas Island) in the Northern Line Islands, located just north of Cassidy International Airport at the northeastern corner of the atoll. The name dates from the US nuclear testing period (Operation Dominic, 1962), when the area served as a military support camp. Today Banana has a population of about 1,209 (2015 census) and is the closest settlement to the airport. The village has broad, sandy streets lined with coconut palms. In recent years there have been discussions about relocating the village closer to London to prevent groundwater contamination from the nearby airport and historical test sites. Kiritimati has an equatorial dry climate with low rainfall (averaging 873 mm annually), steady temperatures of 24–30°C, and periodic droughts.

By Plane

Cassidy International Airport (CXI) is adjacent to Banana — a 5-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Fiji Airways operates weekly flights from Nadi (Fiji). Charter flights from Honolulu are occasionally available.

By Car / Road

A sealed road runs from Banana west through Tabwakea to London (about 8 km). Taxis and private vehicles are available. The road also leads south to Poland and the remote southeastern peninsula.

Banana is a small, walkable village. For trips to Tabwakea, London, or the airport, taxis can be hired. Bicycles are available at some guesthouses.

• Cassidy International Airport: The main airport for the Line Islands. The runway extension and terminal reflect Kiritimati's importance as a transport hub.

• North East Point: The northernmost tip of Kiritimati, with views over the ocean and lagoon entrance.

• The former US camp: Concrete foundations and relics from the 1962 nuclear testing operations can still be found near Banana.

• Salt flats: The hypersaline evaporation ponds east of Banana are a striking landscape feature and attract wading birds.

• Airplane watching: Cassidy Airport's runway sees weekly Fiji Airways flights and occasional charter and cargo aircraft.

• Fishing trips: Arrange bonefish or giant trevally fishing excursions through local guides.

• Explore the northeastern coast: Walk or cycle along the beach past the salt flats and tidal channels.

• Photography: The contrast of white salt flats, turquoise lagoon, coconut palms, and azure ocean creates dramatic landscapes.

There are a few small takeaway stalls in Banana serving fish, chicken, rice, and fried noodles. The Captain Cook Hotel in London and Kiritimati Lodges near the airport offer more substantial meals. Local cuisine centres on fresh reef fish and coconut.

Drinking water is from rainwater tanks and desalination. Bottled soft drinks and water are sold at village stores. Coconut water is widely available.

• Budget: Basic guesthouse accommodation is available in Banana, from around 40–60 AUD per night. Rooms are simple with shared facilities.
• Mid-range: Kiritimati Lodges, located between Banana and the airport, offers comfortable rooms with meals from around 100–150 AUD per night.
• Upscale: No upscale options exist.

Small village stores sell basic groceries and drinks. For a wider selection, London and Tabwakea have more shops. Supplies are limited by infrequent cargo ships — bring any specialised needs.

• Tabwakea (5 km west, 10 min by taxi) — The largest settlement on Kiritimati, with shops and administrative offices.
• London (8 km west, 15 min by taxi) — The historic port village with the main jetty and government offices.
• Poland (south across the lagoon, about 25 km) — A small southern village with a Catholic church.
• Tabuaeran (Fanning Island) (by boat or occasional flight) — A neighbouring Line Islands atoll with stunning beaches and cruise ship visits.