The Villages

The Villages on Christmas Island provides a unique 1:1 guide to guest ratio and convenient direct access to Kiritimati's world-class Bonefish flats. Located roughly 1,340 miles south of Hawaii, this remote atoll is home to seemingly endless flats holding strong populations of Bonefish, Triggerfish, and several Trevally species. The quaint lodge is clean and comfortable, featuring simple guest bungalows that are just steps away from the boats, where each fishing day begins and ends. The outstanding fishery, comfortable accommodations, and 1:1 guide ratio make The Villages a top choice for anglers of any ability on Christmas Island.

 

Who It's For

• Bonefish, Triggerfish, & Trevally Anglers
• Fishing-Oriented Couples & Groups

 

When To Go

Because Kiritimati is only 144 miles north of the equator, there is very little seasonal change in the weather and fishing conditions on Christmas Island, and the lodge is open year-round. The primary target flats species including Bonefish, Triggerfish, and various Trevally species, can be found here at any time of the year. The best time to visit Christmas Island is whenever your schedule allows!

Bonefish

Bonefish are an abundant target species on Kiritimati, with expansive wading flats near the lodge. It's common for anglers to have shots at countless Bonefish per day, ranging in size from three to over ten pounds, with five-pound fish being very common. From sight-fishing large cruisers to targeting schools of tailing fish, there are plentiful bonefishing opportunities for anglers of any ability.

Triggerfish

With behavior similar to Permit, this unique reef species can be found foraging in shallow coral flats at any given time. Although they can be challenging to hook, the real test comes in landing them - as they are notorious for destroying flies with their enormous, human-like teeth and powerful mouths. What's more, Triggerfish dart for cover once hooked, making break-offs on sharp coral heads ubiquitous. Because of their difficulty, Triggerfish have become a highly sought-after gamefish on Christmas Island.

 

Giant Trevally

Also known as the "gangsters of the flats", GTs are the pinnacle shallow-water gamefish for many fly anglers. Although shots for these apex predators can be few and far between, it pays to be ready at a moment's notice as they can rush a flat in a feeding frenzy in a matter of seconds. The visual eats and the raw power of GTs make them a bucket list species for dedicated saltwater anglers.

Other Species

In addition to the excellent Bonefish opportunities, anglers can have shots at various other reef species such as Bluefin Trevally, Golden Trevally, Boxfish, Barracuda, and many others. For anglers who want a change of pace, there is the option to go offshore for a day of targeting pelagic species with conventional and fly gear. Regularly encountered species offshore include Tuna, Sailfish, and Wahoo.

Boats

Large outrigger skiffs are used to transport anglers and guides from flat to flat throughout the day. Anglers fish on foot with their guides, who can maintain contact with the boatmen via radios.

Equipment

A range of rod sizes with matched reels and floating tropical lines will be necessary for a week at The Villages. We recommend bringing 3 rods: an 8wt for Bonefish, a 9wt for Triggerfish, and an 11wt for GTs. Your guides will help you rig appropriately for the day's fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

 

Itinerary

Days 1 - 2: From Home to Honolulu, Hawaii

A week-long trip at The Villages runs from Tuesday to Tuesday. Getting to the lodge begins with a Sunday or Monday flight to Honolulu, Hawaii (HNL). Upon arrival in Honolulu, you will take a taxi to a prearranged hotel in the Waikiki area where you will spend one or two nights.

Day 3: From Honolulu to The Villages

On Tuesday morning, you'll take a taxi to the Honolulu International Airport (HNL) where you will board your 3.5-hour flight to the Cassidy International Airport (CXI) in Christmas Island. Upon arrival at Christmas Island, you'll be met by a Villages staff member who will drive you about 45 minutes to the lodge.

Note: You will cross the international dateline on your flight from Hawaii to Christmas Island. When you arrive at Christmas Island (CXI), it will be Wednesday.

Days 4 - 9: The Fishing Days
Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your private guide for the day. Lunches are typically served on the outrigger skiffs, allowing you to relax, eat, and rehydrate. Following an afternoon fishing session, you'll return to the lodge before dark to unwind and enjoy a flavorful dinner consisting of regional and international dishes. After dinner, feel free to enjoy a cold beverage with fellow guests, or retire early.

 

Day 10: From The Villages to Home

After your week of fishing, you'll enjoy breakfast on Wednesday morning before beginning your 45-minute vehicle transfer to the Cassidy International Airport (CXI), where you'll board your flight to Honolulu, Hawaii (HNL), and your subsequent home destination.

Note: You will cross the international dateline on your flight from Christmas Island to Hawaii. When you arrive at Honolulu (HNL), it will be Tuesday.

 

Lodging

Accommodations

The Villages features 8 double-occupancy suites that can each accommodate two anglers for a total of up to 16 anglers per week. Each air-conditioned room provides anglers with an en suite bathroom with a shower. A large open-air maneaba is a common area where hors d'oeuvres are served before dinner and anglers gather to share their tales of the day. Breakfast and dinner are served in the dining room which is near the maneaba. Although the lodging accommodations are simple, they provide a clean and restful environment for your week at The Villages.

Food

Meals at The Villages are a flavorsome mix of local and international favorites well-suited to Western palates and typically include freshly caught seafood, rice, chicken, and vegetables. Breakfast and dinner are generally served family-style in the dining room, allowing for plenty of fishing stories and camaraderie. There is a sandwich buffet set up in the morning in the dining room for you to make your lunch. Then guides will put your lunch and water in an ice chest that stays in the boat with you. Cold beer is available each evening.

 

Connectivity

The Villages has Starlink Wi-fi available for a weekly fee.

 

Rates

2026 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel's expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge.

All rates below are per person for seven nights and six days of fishing. Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing.

Double Occupancy / Private Guide / (Per Person) = $3,890

Single Occupancy / Private Guide (Per Person) = $4,380

Non-Angler (Per Person) = $1,765

What's Included:

• Lodging
• Meals on Christmas Island
• Guided fishing (1 guide per 1 angler)
• Juice, coffee, tea, filtered water
• Airport transfers (CXI)
•  Island taxes on package rate
• Laundry service
• WiFi
  

 

What's Not Included:

• Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
• Fishing license
• International airfare
• Lodging and meals in Hawaii
• All fishing equipment
• Alcoholic beverages and soda (wine and spirits can be purchased at the duty-free in Honolulu)
• VAT taxes on all additional charges (beer, soda, fuel surcharges, etc.)

 

FAQ

 

What skill level is required for this trip?

The Villages offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we highly recommend practicing your casting before a flats trip to get the most out of your experience.

 

Is The Villages Family Friendly?

Because of the remote nature of Christmas Island, fishing is the main attraction here. We recommend this trip for fishing-oriented groups who don't require extra amenities or any non-angling activities.

 

How do tides affect fishing?

Tides have a significant impact on flats fishing. Spring tides occur during full and new moon phases, resulting in the most dramatic fluctuations in tidal swings. These are excellent times to consider booking if Giant Trevally is your primary target species. Neap tides occur during quarter moon phases and result in less tidal fluctuation, creating longer-lasting conditions ideal for bonefishing. Booking a transition week will provide a combination of both scenarios.

 

 

Is the water safe to drink?

Although the tap water is non-potable on Christmas Island, purified drinking water is available at all times at the lodge.

 

How many other anglers will be at the lodge?
The Villages has a capacity of 16 anglers per week. Due to the immense size of Kiritimati Atoll, it's common to have vast flats to yourself each day.

 

What kind of electrical outlets are there?

The Villages uses 120-volt electrical outlets, the same style found in the USA (type A and B).

 

What is the weather like?

Christmas Island has a hot and humid tropical climate year-round. Due to its proximity to the equator, there isn't much of a seasonal change in the weather.

Is tipping customary on Christmas Island?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. We generally recommend tipping 15-20% of your trip total per person.

 

What happens if I’m injured during the trip, and should I purchase travel insurance?

Medical emergencies and evacuations can happen in remote destinations, which is why we strongly recommend enrolling with Global Rescue before your trip. Global Rescue provides industry-leading medical and security evacuation services, and they also offer comprehensive travel insurance plans serviced through IMG. This all-in-one solution allows anglers to secure both emergency evacuation coverage and travel insurance through a single provider, helping ensure you’re protected if something unexpected occurs before or during your trip.