Solomon Islands Travel Guide
Country Pacific island nation known for diverse marine life
Scattered across the South Pacific, the Solomon Islands lure travelers with their unspoiled coral reefs and World War II relics. Honiara, the capital, serves as a gateway to the islands’ rugged landscapes and traditional Melanesian culture. Divers explore underwater history, while others trek through dense rainforests.
Why Visit Solomon Islands #
Marovo Lagoon on New Georgia is one of the world’s largest saltwater lagoons with incredible reef snorkeling, village stays and barrier reef passes. Choose small, community‑run lodges to combine diving with village cultural visits. The lagoon’s channels are ideal for easy boat trips and reef exploration.
The Solomons are dotted with WWII relics, from Guadalcanal battlefields and memorials to submerged wrecks around the Russell and Treasury Islands. Guided battlefield tours and museum visits in Honiara provide context; many sites remain remote and moving. Expect basic facilities and powerful history lessons.
Visit kastom (traditional) villages on islands like Malaita and Vangunu to see shell money production, canoe carving and communal gardens. These visits require respectful arrangements with community leaders but yield deep cultural insight and opportunities to attend dances, craft workshops and local feasts.
Diving around Gizo, Munda and the Russell Islands offers coral reefs, shoals and WWII wrecks less crowded than other Pacific sites. Local dive shops run personalized trips; conditions vary by season, so plan for calm months. Surface snorkeling is often excellent from shallow village reefs.
Inland islands like Guadalcanal host steep rainforest treks to waterfalls, rare wildlife and traditional hamlets. Trails can be muddy and poorly marked, so hire local guides who know river crossings and cultural protocols. Multi‑day treks reward with solitude and encounters with island fauna.
Who's Solomon Islands For?
Marovo Lagoon’s secluded waters and rustic bungalows suit couples seeking remote romance; shared village culture and untouched beaches make for intimate, nature‑heavy getaways.
Families can enjoy safe snorkeling, short jungle walks and cultural village visits, though amenities and child‑focused services are limited outside larger towns.
A growing backpacker trail exists with guesthouses, island ferries and basic campsites. Independent travelers will enjoy cheap local food and extensive reef access.
Connectivity is limited and power can be intermittent; Solomon Islands work best for short stays offline. Remote work is possible in Honiara with compromises.
Fresh seafood, coconut dishes and root vegetables dominate. Local markets sell day‑boat fish and tropical fruit-eat where islanders eat for the best flavors.
World‑class diving on WWII wrecks, rainforest trekking and remote island hopping deliver high‑octane adventure. Guadalcanal and Munda are key bases for active travelers.
Nightlife is modest with a few bars in Honiara and island gatherings; expect music and communal celebrations rather than club nights.
Rainforests, Marovo Lagoon and pristine reefs provide rich biodiversity. Birdwatching, marine life encounters and jungle trails make it rewarding for nature lovers.
Regions of Solomon Islands #
Guadalcanal & Honiara
Honiara on Guadalcanal is the usual entry point, combining WWII history with lively markets and easy access to jungle hikes. Museums and memorials keep wartime stories front and centre, while short drives reveal coastal villages and reef snorkels. It’s a practical base for first-time visitors.
Top Spots
- Honiara - Capital markets, WWII museums and waterfront cafés.
- Tenaru - Nearby battle sites and jungle walks.
- Mount Austen - Overlook hikes with historical markers.
Western Province
The Western Province is the Solomon Islands’ island-hopping playground: labyrinthine lagoons, dense reefs and remote villages. Marovo Lagoon and Munda are highlights for divers, kayak trips and relaxed island stays. Travel here mixes boat transfers, homestays and evening beach barbecues beneath huge starry skies.
Top Spots
- Marovo Lagoon - One of the world’s largest saltwater lagoons for kayaking and diving.
- Munda - Dive operator hub and WWII relics.
- Vangunu - Dense rainforest and crocodile habitats.
Malaita
Malaita is culturally intense: clan-based societies, rich oral traditions and hands-on cultural encounters make the island distinct. Homestays and local guides open up dances, canoe life and village crafts. Expect fewer tourists, deep cultural exchange and simple travel infrastructure that rewards respectful engagement.
Top Spots
- Auki - Administrative centre and market gateway.
- Traditional villages - Strong kastom culture and local ceremonies.
- Shortland Islands approach - Remote coastal experiences.
Isabel & Central
Isabel and the central islands mix rainforest, river systems and quiet coastal communities. Nature-oriented travelers find birding, river trips and low-key snorkel spots here, along with easygoing local guesthouses. It’s ideal for those who want to slow down and sample varied island environments without big crowds.
Top Spots
- Buala - Isabel’s small capital with nearby diving and reef trips.
- Koveke - Rainforest and riverine scenery.
- Local canoe trips - River and lagoon exploration.
Rennell & Temotu
Rennell and the far east are for explorers seeking true remoteness: Rennell’s dramatic Lake Tegano and the isolated Santa Cruz islands offer deep wilderness and strong local traditions. Boat passages are long and infrastructure sparse; the reward is striking natural diversity and solitude rarely found elsewhere in Melanesia.
Top Spots
- Lake Tegano (Rennell) - A UNESCO-listed freshwater lake in a karst basin.
- Santa Cruz Islands - Remote beaches and Melanesian culture.
- Extreme east atolls - Isolated coral islands and bird colonies.
Top Cities in Solomon Islands
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Best Things to Do in Solomon Islands
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Solomon Islands Bucket List
- Marovo Lagoon - Extensive double-barrier lagoon with coral channels, island villages, and excellent snorkeling and diving.
- Iron Bottom Sound - Concentrated WWII ship and aircraft wrecks around Guadalcanal, premier historical diving destination.
- Lake Tegano (Rennell) - Rennell's Lake Tegano UNESCO site with freshwater lagoon, Polynesian culture, and endemic birdlife.
- Guadalcanal battlefield sites - Henderson Field and Bloody Ridge tour sites that tell Guadalcanal's intense WWII history.
- Honiara (National Museum and Central Market) - Honiara's National Museum, central market, and waterfront provide historical context and lively daily life.
- Tetepare Island - Largest uninhabited island in the South Pacific and a community-run conservation area with rare wildlife.
- Munda (New Georgia) - Munda town offers WWII relics, nearby coral gardens, and convenient access to the New Georgia islands.
- Kolombangara Island - Volcanic cone island with interior rainforest, birdwatching, and canoe-access villages along the coast.
- Arnarvon Islands Sanctuary - Arnarvon Islands Sanctuary protects nesting hawksbill turtles and offers community-led snorkeling experiences.
- Note - Conservation fees and park permissions apply in several provinces; support local communities when visiting.
- Marovo Lagoon sailing route - Sail from Gizo to Marovo Lagoon via Nusa Roviana, island-hopping with village stays; multi-day itinerary.
- Guadalcanal WWII circuit - Drive and hike circuit around Guadalcanal's battlefield sites including Henderson Field and surrounding ridges.
- Rennell exploration - Fly to Rennell, then boat to Lake Tegano and village homestays; typically three to five days.
- Note - Inter-island travel often requires local boat charters or domestic flights with limited schedules.
Planning Your Trip to Solomon Islands #
1 Week Solomon Islands Itinerary
Land in Honiara, visit WWII Guadalcanal sites, fly to Munda for Marovo Lagoon exploration and diving, returning to Honiara for markets and departure.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Honiara; visit National Museum and markets.
- Day 2 - Drive to WWII sites on Guadalcanal.
- Day 3 - Fly or boat to Munda, New Georgia.
- Day 4 - Explore Vangunu and Marovo Lagoon snorkeling.
- Day 5 - Day dive at Munda or Marovo Lagoon.
- Day 6 - Return to Honiara for market shopping.
- Day 7 - Depart from Honiara.
2 Weeks Solomon Islands Itinerary
Broaden your Solomon Islands journey: Honiara battlefields, Gizo and Marovo Lagoon snorkeling, Munda wreck dives, optional Rennell Island heritage visit and village homestays.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Honiara; meet local guide.
- Day 2 - Guadalcanal battlefield tours and trekking.
- Day 3 - Boat to Gizo; explore local markets.
- Day 4-6 - Marovo Lagoon multi-day snorkeling and village homestays.
- Day 7 - Fly to Munda for wreck dives.
- Day 8-10 - Munda diving and lagoon exploration.
- Day 11 - Return to Honiara; cultural performance evening.
- Day 12-14 - Optional Rennell Island trip (heritage and lake Tonga).
- Day 15 - Depart from Honiara.
3-4 Weeks Solomon Islands Itinerary
Deep Solomon Islands itinerary mixing Marovo conservation, New Georgia diving, Rennell heritage exploration, Choiseul trekking and extended village homestays across multiple provinces.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Honiara; plan inter-island travel.
- Day 2-5 - Extended Marovo Lagoon stay with conservation activities.
- Day 6-10 - New Georgia and Choiseul exploration and diving.
- Day 11-15 - Rennell Island multi-day cultural and natural history visit.
- Day 16-19 - Isabel Province and Santa Isabel coastal trekking.
- Day 20-21 - Return to Honiara; final markets and depart.
Best Time to Visit Solomon Islands #
The Solomon Islands have a tropical rainforest climate: a wetter season roughly November-March and a drier season from May-September. Rainfall is heavy and persistent in the wet months, and tropical storms or cyclones are possible during the austral summer.
January
January is in the Solomon Islands' wet season with frequent heavy showers and high humidity. Coastal and lowland areas remain warm but travel can be affected by rain and swollen rivers.
Events
No major festivals this month.
February
February often brings intense rainfall and is within the broader southwest Pacific cyclone window, when severe tropical storms are possible. Expect disrupted boat and road travel during heavy weather.
Events
No major festivals this month.
March
March continues to be wet and humid across most islands, with heavy showers common. Visibility for diving can be reduced after extended rainfall.
Events
No major festivals this month.
April
April is a transition month as rainfall starts to ease in many areas though storms still occur. Prices and visitor numbers remain low compared with the drier months.
Events
No major festivals this month.
May
May brings steadier weather and less rainfall in much of the archipelago, making it a popular time for trekking and island-hopping. Sea conditions improve for inter-island transport.
Events
No major festivals this month.
June
June is typically one of the drier months with lower humidity and clearer skies, helpful for outdoor activities and diving. Visitor services are more consistently available.
Events
No major festivals this month.
July
July offers coolish, dryer conditions and is a very good time for hiking and visiting cultural sites. Sea visibility is generally good and inter-island connections are reliable.
Events
- Independence Day - July 7 - national holiday marking Solomon Islands' independence with local ceremonies and events.
August
August remains dry and pleasant, with lower humidity and less rain than the wet season. This is peak visitor season for many parts of the Solomons.
Events
No major festivals this month.
September
September is late dry season with warming temperatures and generally calm seas. Accommodation demand can rise in popular spots so book ahead for peak weeks.
Events
No major festivals this month.
October
October sees increasing humidity and showers as the wet season approaches, but many days are still suitable for outdoor pursuits. Prices may begin to fall as the high season ends.
Events
No major festivals this month.
November
November marks the return of more persistent rain and humidity across the islands. Planning for possible transport delays is wise during this month.
Events
No major festivals this month.
December
December is firmly in the wet season with frequent heavy showers and warm, humid conditions. Boat services can be more variable and some lodges reduce operations.
Events
No major festivals this month.
How to Get to Solomon Islands #
Most international flights arrive at Honiara International Airport (HIR) on Guadalcanal. Solomon Airlines is the national carrier and provides key international and domestic connections; island hopping by air or sea connects Honiara with Munda (MUA), Gizo and other outer islands.
- The Solomon Islands offers visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for many nationalities (commonly up to 3 months). Check the latest list with Solomon Islands immigration or a consulate before travel.
- Visitors should hold a passport valid for at least six months and may be asked for proof of onward travel and accommodation.
- Yellow fever vaccination requirements apply if arriving from a yellow-fever-affected country; other health checks may be requested.
International Airports
All Airports ›How to Get Around Solomon Islands
Solomon Airlines handles most scheduled domestic and regional international flights; see Solomon Airlines for routes and bookings. Flights are efficient for reaching remote islands, particularly during the drier months.
Book domestic flights early - capacity can be limited during holiday periods and on popular dive/eco-tourism routes.
Inter-island ferries and local boat services are widespread and are often the most affordable way to travel between islands. Operators range from government-subsidised ferries to private passenger boats that serve lagoon communities.
Schedules are weather dependent; for outer islands allow extra travel time and confirm return dates locally.
In Honiara and larger centres, minibuses and local buses run set and informal routes; they are low-cost but can be crowded and have irregular timetables. Ask locals for route guidance and typical fares.
Tipping is not common; carry small change for fares and market stops.
Taxis and private drivers are available in urban areas for airport transfers and island tours. Negotiate fares in advance - meters are not common.
For day trips to dive sites or cultural villages, many operators can arrange door-to-door pickup and equipment handling.
Car hire exists in Honiara but the fleet is limited; roads outside major towns can be rough, so a 4x4 is often recommended for rural excursions. Rental prices are higher than in large countries due to limited supply and import costs.
If driving yourself, be prepared for inconsistent signage and local driving norms; consider hiring a local driver for off-road trips.
Where to Stay in Solomon Islands #
Honiara contains the largest hotel selection and guesthouses near the central market and seafront. Gizo and Munda host small resorts serving divers and anglers; book ahead in peak season.
Resorts in Gizo and the Western Province focus on diving, game fishing, and island excursions. Accommodation ranges from simple bungalows to mid-range lodges with boat transfers included.
Local guesthouses in provincial towns provide cheap rooms and communal meals, useful for backpackers and short-term workers. They’re near boat ramps and inter-island departure points.
Village homestays across the outer islands offer cultural exchange and guided village walks. Stays require coordination with local chiefs and provide direct access to traditional activities.
Long-term housing for NGOs and contractors is available in Honiara and some provincial centres. Expect basic furnished units; confirm water and power arrangements before signing longer leases.
Staying Connected in Solomon Islands #
The Solomon Islands have reasonable mobile and hotel Wi‑Fi in Honiara and other population centres, with service provided by national and regional carriers. Outside main islands, coverage and speeds often fall off markedly.
Buy prepaid SIMs from national carriers at Honiara’s airport or shops, typically priced around $5-$20. Local data bundles are available; expect better packages in urban centres and limited options on remote islands.
Our Telekom is a major provider offering mobile and fixed services in the Solomon Islands alongside smaller regional operators. Coverage is strongest on Guadalcanal and densely populated islands; outer islands may have spotty service.
Hotels and cafés in Honiara offer Wi‑Fi, though speeds can be constrained by international links. Formal coworking options are limited - many remote workers rely on hotel connections or mobile tethering for day‑to‑day needs.
Expect patchy or no coverage on many outer islands; international bandwidth can be a limiting factor. eSIMs are not widely supported-use a local physical SIM.
Health & Safety in Solomon Islands #
Solomon Islands present attractive but rugged travel conditions: malaria, limited healthcare, cyclone risk and occasional local tensions are primary concerns. Ocean and transport safety are important-plan itineraries with flexibility, local guidance and medical evacuation coverage.
- Political & Inter‑communal Tensions - Some provinces experience occasional tribal tensions and localized violence. Avoid known hotspots and demonstrations, follow local authority advice, and check updated travel advisories before inter-island travel or visiting remote communities.
- Malaria & Health Care - Malaria is endemic across the Solomon Islands; take prophylaxis if recommended, use insect repellent and sleep under nets. Medical facilities are basic; serious cases may require evacuation to regional medical centers. Carry essentials and insurance covering medevac.
- Ocean & Surf Hazards - Strong currents, rips and remote reef breaks present real dangers. Swim where locals advise, use experienced boat operators and wear appropriate footwear. Emergency services are limited on outer islands-carry communications and a first-aid kit for water activities.
- Cyclones & Flooding - The islands face tropical cyclones and heavy rains that can cause flooding, landslides and transport cancellations. Monitor forecasts, secure lodging, avoid crossing swollen rivers and follow evacuation orders during severe weather events.
- Road Safety & Remote Travel - Roads are often unsealed and poorly lit, with unpredictable driving behavior. Avoid night driving, check vehicle condition, and hire reputable drivers for inter-island transfers. Plan extra time for ferry and flight schedules, which can be unreliable.
- Petty Crime & Local Scams - Petty theft and opportunistic crime occur in Honiara and tourist areas; be cautious with valuables and avoid flaunting cash. Be wary of unofficial tour offers, confirm prices in advance, and use established operators for excursions.
History & Culture of Solomon Islands #
An ocean‑linked Melanesian nation with strong local customs (kastom), deep communal ties and a living tradition of seafaring, song and carving that varies island to island.
History of Solomon Islands
The islands now called the Solomon Islands were settled thousands of years ago by Austronesian and Papuan-speaking peoples; coastal communities developed distinct languages, seafaring skills and exchange networks. European sighting in the 16th century introduced new contacts, and missionary activity in the 19th century reshaped religion and social life.
Colonial administration as the British Solomon Islands Protectorate began in the late 19th century, and the islands were the scene of intense fighting during World War II (notably the 1942-43 Guadalcanal campaign). The country gained independence from Britain on 7 July 1978; more recent history includes inter-ethnic tensions in the late 1990s and early 2000s and an Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission (RAMSI) that helped restore order and rebuild institutions.
Notable Figures
- Álvaro de Mendaña - Spanish explorer who made one of the first recorded European contacts with the islands in 1568.
- John Coleridge Patteson - 19th‑century Anglican bishop and missionary remembered in Melanesian history; his story appears in missionary sites and memorials.
- Sir Peter Kenilorea - First prime minister after independence (1978) and a key figure in early nation-building.
- Solomon Mamaloni - Long-time political leader and multiple-term prime minister who shaped post-independence politics.
Key Dates
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c. 1200 BCEAustronesian/Lapita seafarers colonize parts of the archipelago, bringing pottery, agriculture and navigation skills.
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1568Spanish navigator Álvaro de Mendaña records European contact and names the islands after the biblical King Solomon.
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1893British protectorate established, later formalized as the British Solomon Islands Protectorate.
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1942-1943Guadalcanal becomes the focus of major Allied-Japanese battles during World War II.
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7 July 1978Solomon Islands gains independence from the United Kingdom.
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1998-2003Period of ethnic tensions (often called 'The Tensions') leads to civil unrest and later international intervention.
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2003RAMSI (Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands) led by Australia helps restore security and governance.
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2019Government shifts diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to the People's Republic of China.
Meals center on fish, coconuts and root crops; communal feasts and food shared at village events are common and visitors are often invited to join.
Language
English is the official language for government and education, but Solomon Islands Pijin (an English‑based creole) is the lingua franca across islands; dozens of indigenous languages are used in villages.
Useful Phrases
- Hello - Halo HAH-lo
- Good morning - Gud moning GUD moh-ning
- Thank you - Tangkyu TANG-kyoo
- Where is the toilet? - Wea i stap toilet? WEH-ah ee stap TOY-let
- Where is Honiara/Where is 'X'? - Wea i stap Honiara?/Wea i stap 'X' WEH-ah ee stap HO-nee-ah-rah / 'X' name
- I want to go to… - Mi save go long… mee SAV-ay go long …
- How much? - Hao mami? How MAH-mee
- Can you help me? - Yu save help mi? yoo SAV-ay help mee?
- I'd like to eat / I'm hungry - Mi laik kaikai mee liek kai-KAI
- Thank you very much (after food) - Tangkyu tumas TANG-kyoo TOO-mas
- Please give me a little - Plis giv mi smol pleez giv mee smol
- Excuse me / I need help - Sori, mi nid help SO-ree, mee need help
- Call an ambulance - Kolim ambulance ko-LEEM am-byu-lans
- Is it an emergency? - Em gens? em JENS?
Responsible Travel in Solomon Islands #
The Solomon Islands’ strong village governance and rich marine/forest habitats make community consent and conservation central to responsible travel. Follow kastom, support community conservation like Tetepare, and avoid environmental damage.
- Respect Kastom & Village Protocols: Inhabitants of the Solomon Islands follow kastom (traditional) protocols - always ask before visiting villages, accept chiefs’ directions, remove shoes when requested, and request permission before photographing ceremonies or people.
- Marine Conservation & Turtle Areas: Support and follow local conservation rules for areas such as the Arnavon Islands (turtle conservation) and community protected areas near Guadalcanal and the Western Province. Use reef‑safe sunscreen and avoid anchoring on live coral.
- Support Community Conservation Projects: Consider contributing to or visiting community‑run initiatives like Tetepare Island conservation (see Tetepare.org) which protect rainforest and marine habitats while providing community income. Choose eco‑certified operators when possible.
- Buy Local & Respect Souvenirs Rules: Buy shell money replicas, carvings and woven goods from local artisans, and avoid purchasing items made from endangered species or cultural artifacts. Hiring village hosts and guides ensures tourism funds remain local.
- Reduce Waste & Plastic Use: Bring reusables, pack out non‑biodegradable waste on remote islands, and ask guesthouses about waste disposal methods - many outer islands have limited waste management and burning plastics harms communities and reefs.
Travel Resources for Solomon Islands #
Official
- Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau / Tourism Official Tourism
- Government of the Solomon Islands Government
Travel Advisories
News & Media
Useful Links
Useful Apps for Solomon Islands
- WhatsApp Messenger - Widely used for communication across Solomon Islands.
- Google Maps - Useful in Honiara and larger islands for directions.
- Maps.me - Offline maps for inter-island travel.
- Google Translate - Translate English to local languages and vice versa.