Kili

Kili Island is a small, solitary coral island in the southern Ralik Chain of the Marshall Islands, located approximately 75 km northeast of Jaluit Atoll. Unlike most Marshallese settlements, Kili is a single island rather than an atoll, measuring roughly 0.93 km² with no lagoon and no protected anchorage. What makes Kili historically significant is its role as the permanent resettlement home of the Bikini Islanders after their atoll was rendered uninhabitable by US nuclear testing in the 1940s and 1950s.

In 1946, the 167 residents of Bikini Atoll were relocated by the US government to make way for Operation Crossroads. After brief stays on Rongerik Atoll (which proved unable to support them) and Kwajalein, they were eventually moved to Kili Island in 1948. The island was chosen as a temporary solution but became a permanent home. Life on Kili has been extremely challenging — the island is too small for sustainable agriculture, has no lagoon for fishing, and is frequently battered by ocean swells that make boat landings dangerous. Today, approximately 400–500 people live on the island, descendants of the original Bikini community, who maintain strong cultural and political ties to their home atoll.

The climate is tropical maritime, with temperatures averaging 27–30°C. The island is exposed to the full force of the Pacific Ocean, and its lack of a protected lagoon means that sea conditions heavily dictate transport access. The dry season (December–April) offers the most reliable window for travel. The wet season (May–November) brings heavier seas that can cut the island off for weeks at a time.

By Plane

Kili does not have an airstrip. The nearest airport is Jaluit Airport (UIT) on Jaluit Atoll, approximately 75 km southwest, or Amata Kabua International Airport (MAJ) on Majuro, roughly 250 km east. All travel to Kili is by sea from Majuro, Jaluit, or Kwajalein.

By Train

By Car / Road

There are no roads connecting Kili to other locations. Access is exclusively by sea. Government supply ships operated by the Marshall Islands Shipping Corporation visit Kili on their southern Ralik circuit, typically every 4–8 weeks. The voyage from Majuro takes approximately 12–20 hours. The Bikini Atoll Local Government also operates periodic supply vessels directly from Majuro. These scheduled services are the only reliable way to reach the island. Landing can be dangerous in rough weather — there is no protected harbour.

Kili Island is small enough to walk end-to-end in under 30 minutes. There are no roads, vehicles, taxis, or any form of transport beyond walking. A single main path connects the village areas, the church, the school, and the boat landing. The entire island is ringed by a narrow beach of coral sand and rubble. Sturdy footwear is essential.

• Kili Settlement — The village is a living monument to the resilience of the Bikini community. The homes, meeting houses, and church reflect a community that maintains its identity in exile.

• Bikini Memorial — A small memorial on the island commemorates the history of the Bikini people and their connection to their home atoll. It is a poignant and sobering site.

• Kili Shoreline — The exposed coastline, with powerful waves breaking on the reef, is dramatically different from the calm lagoon settings of most Marshallese communities.

• Copra and Handicraft Areas — Copra processing and pandanus weaving are the main livelihoods. Visitors may observe women weaving the fine mats for which the Marshall Islands is famous.

• Cultural Visits — Kili offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and ongoing struggles of the Bikini community. Arrange conversations with community elders through your host.

• Fishing — The reef around Kili supports some fishing, though the lack of a lagoon makes it more challenging than on atoll islands. Local fishermen can take visitors to nearby reef areas.

• Snorkelling — The fringing reef has reasonable snorkelling opportunities when sea conditions permit. The water clarity is excellent. Bring your own gear.

• Walking — Simply walking the perimeter of the island and observing daily life is the main activity. The island's small size means you can explore every corner in a single day.

• Birdwatching — Seabirds nest on the islet and the surrounding reef flats.

Food on Kili is primarily subsistence-based, supplemented by imported goods delivered by supply ships. Reef fish, coconut, breadfruit, and imported rice are staples. The island's small size limits agricultural production.

• Homestay meals — Visitors eat with their host family. Meals are simple — fish, rice, and coconut-based dishes.
• Self-catering — Bring supplementary food supplies from Majuro. This is both courteous and practical, as fresh food is scarce.

There are no restaurants or food vendors.

Fresh coconut water is the most readily available drink. Rainwater collected in tanks is the primary water source; boil or treat before drinking. The island frequently experiences water shortages during the dry season. There are no bars or cafés. Bring water purification supplies and any preferred beverages from Majuro.

• Budget — Homestay with a local family is the only option. Arrange through the Bikini Atoll Local Government office in Majuro before arrival. Conditions are very basic — a sleeping mat, shared outdoor facilities. A contribution of US$15–25 per night including meals is appropriate. Bring a mosquito net, sleeping sheet, and headlamp.
• Mid-range — No formal accommodation exists on Kili. The nearest hotels are in Majuro.
• Upscale / heritage — No upscale accommodation exists.

There is no commercial activity on Kili. A small community store stocks basic imported goods when supply ships have arrived. Selection is extremely limited. Handwoven pandanus mats and baskets — a specialty of the Bikini community — may be available for purchase by arrangement. Bring all essential supplies, food, water, and cash (US dollars) from Majuro. There is no bank or ATM.

• Jaluit Atoll (~75 km southwest, 4–8 hr by boat) — Former German colonial capital with colonial-era ruins and a small museum.
• Majuro Atoll (~250 km east, 12–20 hr by ship) — The national capital with international airport and full infrastructure.
• Kwajalein Atoll (~200 km north, ship via Majuro) — The world's largest lagoon and the US Army missile-testing base.
• Namu Atoll (~150 km northwest, irregular boat) — Large atoll known for traditional handicrafts.
• Ebon Atoll (~200 km south, irregular boat) — Southernmost atoll in the Marshalls and site of the first Christian mission.