The Solomon Islands is an archipelago that often flies under the radar, but that’s actually one of its strengths. It’s remote, quiet, and filled with natural beauty. If you love outdoor adventure, captivating history, and authentic cultures, you will love it here. Whether you’re looking to relax on a deserted beach or explore lush jungles, the Solomon Islands have it all without the overwhelming crowds.
Honiara
Start your adventure in Honiara, the capital city. You’ll likely land at the international airport here before beginning your journey across the islands. It’s a great place to adjust to the islands’ pace and dive into the local culture.
National Museum and Cultural Center
One of the best ways to begin exploring Honiara is by learning about the nation’s history and culture. The National Museum is a small but fascinating spot that features artifacts from different islands, showcasing the diversity of the Solomon Islands. You’ll see traditional costumes, ancient weapons, and canoes used for fishing and transport.
American War Memorial
Honiara played a critical role in World War II. The American War Memorial commemorates this and gives a glimpse into the country’s strategic involvement in the war, especially during the famous Battle of Guadalcanal. The views from this hilltop memorial are also stunning.
Tenaru Falls
If you want a nature break from the city, head to Tenaru Falls. It’s a little hard to find, but the adventure is worth it. You will have to trek through the jungle, but once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful and refreshing waterfall where you can jump into the clear waters to cool off.
Central Market
Most locals in Honiara shop at the bustling Central Market. It’s loud and busy, but this is the heart of the city. You’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts, often sold by women from nearby islands. The market is a great place to experience the local flavors and support small-scale traders.
Western Province
If you’re into diving and beaches, the Western Province is what you’re after. It’s home to some of the most beautiful islands and underwater experiences in the Solomon Islands.
Gizo Island
Gizo is the second-largest town and a popular starting point for anyone heading to the Western Province. You can stroll through the small town, check out its tiny market, and then head out for snorkeling or scuba diving, which is just minutes from the main streets.
Kennedy Island
A boat ride from Gizo will take you to Kennedy Island. This little island holds a unique history. It’s where then-Lieutenant John F. Kennedy and his PT-109 crew took refuge after their ship was hit by a Japanese destroyer during World War II. These days, you can explore the little island, enjoy a picnic, or snorkel just off the beach.
Munda
About an hour from Gizo is Munda, a paradise for divers. The underwater life here is incredible, plus there are plane wrecks from World War II that have transformed into lively reefs. Dive shops in Munda will be happy to organize day trips to the best diving sites, and the nearby markets sell wood carvings you can take home.
Skull Island
If you want to learn about the local history before Western influence, head to Skull Island. A local guide will take you by boat to this small, eerie islet where the skulls of ancient chiefs and enemies were preserved as trophies after battles. It’s a short but memorable visit that reveals a unique part of the islands’ past.
Isabel Province
Isabel Province is perfect if you want something a bit off the beaten path. It’s not the most visited area, but it is rich in wildlife, natural beauty, and culture.
Santa Isabel Island
Santa Isabel is the largest island in this province. It’s known for lush rainforests filled with rare birds and animals. Birdwatchers from all over the world come here to spot species that can’t be seen anywhere else. But even if you’re not a birdwatcher, hiking and canoe trips through the mangroves are unforgettable experiences.
Sepik River Villages
You’ll get a real taste of traditional culture by visiting the Sepik River Villages. Life here has changed very little over hundreds of years, and you can watch the daily routines of villagers who fish in hand-carved boats or make crafts that they’ve used for centuries.
Malaita Province
If you’re looking for more authentic cultural experiences and less tourist infrastructure, Malaita is where you want to go.
Auki
Auki is the provincial capital of Malaita and has a different vibe compared to Honiara. It’s quiet, and there isn’t a lot going on, but that’s its charm. The town sits along the shore of the lagoon, and you can take some pretty epic boat rides from here. People in Auki live traditionally, and you will run into few tourists.
Langa Langa Lagoon
One of the best things to do around Auki is to visit the artificial islands of Langa Langa Lagoon. These small islands were built by ancient settlers to protect themselves from headhunters. Today, local guides take travelers to these islands and share stories of how they were built. You can also swim or fish in the lagoon, or just sit back and relax.
Are’Are Culture
The Are’Are people are famous for their music and craftsmanship. You can visit a traditional village and listen to bamboo panpipe music, which is unlike anything you’ve heard. This is a great way to engage with local customs and spend time with the community.
Makira Province
Makira is lesser-known but totally worth visiting. The island of Makira itself is one of the largest in the Solomon Islands, and it’s filled with lush rainforests and small, cozy villages nestled along the coast.
Star Harbour
A boat ride to Star Harbour is highly recommended. It’s a great place to go if you want to meet residents of smaller communities and perhaps join them for a laid-back day of fishing or paddling. Local guides are friendly and will take you to hidden spots you won’t find on a map.
Kumara Culture
In Makira Province, some of the most traditional people are the Kumara. They live along the coast, farming and fishing pretty much as they always have. You can visit small villages here and learn about their way of life from the elders.
Tetepare Island
Saving the best for last: Tetepare is an uninhabited island and the largest of its kind in the South Pacific. The island is home to incredible biodiversity and is often considered one of the best spots in the Solomon Islands for snorkeling and wildlife watching.
The locals from nearby islands manage Tetepare as a conservation site, and you can only visit by arranging boat trips through village-based eco-lodges. It’s raw, natural, and completely undeveloped, so it’s perfect if you want to disconnect from everything and just enjoy nature at its finest.
Snorkeling and Diving
Tetepare has some of the most pristine coral reefs in the Solomon Islands. Since it’s not inhabited, the reefs are practically untouched. You’ll see colorful fishes, giant clams, and even dugongs if you’re lucky.
Rainforest Walks
A hike through Tetepare’s thick jungle is an adventure you won’t forget. You’ll hear countless birds, and if you’re lucky, spot monitor lizards or even sea turtles nesting along the shore. Local guides will point out medicinal plants and share stories about the island’s wildlife.
Wrapping it up, the Solomon Islands is a treasure trove of history, nature, and authentic cultural experiences. It’s a place where you can relax on quiet beaches, dive into clear waters, or trek through rainforest trails. It feels like stepping back in time, and that’s what makes it so special.
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