Solomon Islands in February: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Honiara & Guadalcanal Coast

By late summer the rain often arrives in long, thundery bursts that can make travel between Honiara and the inland villages slow and slippery. The city itself is lush - the Botanic Garden and local markets are busier on dry mornings - but mosquitoes surge after heavy rains, so bring repellent and a mosquito net if staying in village homestays. Flights to provincial airstrips are occasionally weather-affected, so leave buffer days around inter-island transfers.

Central Province (Florida Islands, Tulagi, Russell Islands)

The atmosphere in February is very humid and often punctuated by tropical showers that swell the tiny rivers on the Russells and Nggela (Florida) Islands. Visibility for snorkeling is variable - clearer before or after storm systems - and the sheltered waterways around Tulagi can be deceptively calm one hour and choppy the next. Local markets on Tulagi hum between storms; plan shore time in the mornings and expect slower ferry runs later in the day.

Western Province (Gizo, New Georgia, Munda, Marovo Lagoon)

Heavy, warm rains persist into February in the lagoon and outer reefs, swelling rivers on New Georgia and increasing freshwater runoff into dive sites. Marovo Lagoon, being more sheltered, may offer better-protected water than exposed reefs, but small-boat crossings from Gizo or Munda still suffer cancellations when storms occur. Expect intense humidity ashore and ensure anti-mosquito measures - dengue and malaria precautions are important year-round in rural areas.

Malaita & Savo Coastal Areas

Warm and wet conditions continue into February, which brings afternoon convective storms that can slow travel between coastal villages and cut footpaths inland. Boat transfers are often curtailed during sustained downpours, so if you’re island-hopping to or from Malaita, plan extra days for connections. For visitors interested in cultural encounters, mornings tend to be the driest and best time for village visits and canoe trips.

Temotu & Santa Cruz Islands (Tikopia, Anuta, Vanikoro)

Persistent humidity and squalls continue in February, with the smallest islands seeing significant freshwater input that can affect nearshore visibility for snorkeling. Residents keep to local rhythms despite the weather, but arriving visitors should expect irregular charter availability and occasional cancellations of supply runs. These months are best for travelers who value solitude and accept a relaxed timetable.

Rennell, Bellona & Makira-Ulawa (Southern islands)

February continues the pattern of heavy tropical rainfall and high humidity across the southern islands, making overland travel and simple beach landings more unpredictable. Rennell’s low-lying coastal settlements are particularly exposed during extended storms, and small lodges may run low on fresh supplies when supply boats are delayed. If you’re planning diving or fishing excursions, allow extra days for weather windows.