This research paper provides a combined account of the understanding on the concepts, principles, lessons and findings that came out as a result of the research undertaken as part of the dissertation program. The report emphasizes and broaden the main domains of the research which includes, i) a consolidated coverage on the risks/vulnerabilities of the coastal zone of South Tarawa, Kiribati ii) the significance of vulnerability and planning methods and tools applied, iii) the institutional adaptive capacity and iv)the range of barriers and limits determined from the former three. This research paper aims to consolidate existing information in a manner that is readable and clear for climate change adaptive planning purposes in Kiribati.