Choiseul Island

Choiseul Island (also called Lauru) is a large island in the Solomon Islands and forms the bulk of Choiseul Province. It is known for its forested interior, coastal villages and local subsistence economies.

The island offers coastal villages, artisanal fisheries and traditional lifestyles rather than extensive tourist infrastructure; the shoreline and reef systems provide fishing and small-boat travel opportunities. Visitors typically transit via the island’s main settlement for services and local transport.

Choiseul has a long history of Melanesian settlement and was involved in regional trade and later European contact; during the 20th century it experienced colonial administration and wartime activity like other parts of the Solomons. Local communities retain strong cultural traditions and subsistence livelihoods.

Choiseul Island lies north-west of the main Solomon Islands chain and is part of Choiseul Province, accessible by inter-island boat or small aircraft services from larger Solomon Islands centres.

• Administrative centre: Taro is the provincial administrative centre located on Choiseul Island and provides the main government services and air link for the island.

Choiseul is reached by domestic flight or boat from Honiara (Solomon Islands’ capital). Solomon Airlines operates scheduled domestic services to some Choiseul airstrips (such as Taro) when available; otherwise, motorized boats connect from mainland ports-schedules are irregular and weather‑dependent.

• Internal flights and inter‑island boats in the Solomons are infrequent-book travel and accommodation well in advance.
• Local customs are important-ask permission before photographing people and villages.
• Bring cash in small denominations; ATMs are generally unavailable and services are limited outside bigger towns.