10-Day Itinerary for Exploring the Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands are a hidden gem in the Pacific. You get pristine beaches, historic sites, lush jungles, and friendly locals. Best of all, it’s still relatively untouched by mass tourism. If you’re looking for somewhere off the beaten path, you’ll love this itinerary. Here’s my dream 10-day trip to the Solomon Islands.
Day 1: Arrive in Honiara
Your adventure starts in Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands. After landing at Honiara International Airport, take some time to adjust and relax from your flight. Most flights come in from Brisbane or other Pacific islands, so you’ll have a little bit of jet lag.
After checking into your accommodation, head to the National Museum & Cultural Centre. It’s a great way to learn about the history and culture. The exhibits cover everything from WWII to traditional island life. They even have old canoes and carvings on display.
For dinner, try some of the local seafood at one of the small restaurants around the town. Fresh fish is abundant, and locals often grill it with coconut and lime.
Day 2: WWII History and Local Markets in Honiara
Today is all about exploring Honiara’s connection to WWII. Start with a visit to the famous Bloody Ridge. This battle site was critical in the Pacific campaign during WWII. Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll feel the weight of the place and get some great views of the surrounding area.
In the afternoon, take it easy and stroll through Central Market. It’s filled with local produce, crafts, fresh seafood, and handmade souvenirs. It’s also a place to strike up some conversations with the friendly locals. A smile goes a long way here.
Day 3: Snorkeling at Bonegi Beach
Only a 15-minute drive from Honiara, today is all about getting some beach time at Bonegi Beach. Bring your snorkel because two WWII shipwrecks rest just offshore. You can see them even as a beginner snorkeler, and the water is warm and crystal-clear.
After snorkeling, find one of the beachside huts to relax, have a picnic, and take in the tropical vibes. It’s a peaceful break from the busyness of Honiara.
Day 4: Fly to Gizo & Relax on the Beach
This morning, take a short flight to Gizo, the Solomon Islands’ second-largest town. It’s an excellent base for exploring the western parts of the archipelago.
Once you arrive, check into your lodging (a beachside bungalow is a fantastic option). Spend the rest of the day unwinding on the beach. Gizo’s beaches are pristine, so just pull up a hammock, grab a book, and enjoy the view.
Day 5: Explore Kennedy Island
Today, take a day trip to Kennedy Island. This tiny island has an important place in history since it’s where future U.S. President John F. Kennedy and his crew washed ashore during WWII.
You can catch a local boat to the island, which will take around 15 minutes. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming, and soaking up history on this uninhabited islet. The coral reefs around the island are teeming with marine life.
Day 6: Snorkeling and Diving near Gizo
Gizo is a mecca for snorkeling and diving. If you’re a certified diver, this is one of the best spots in the country. The waters around Gizo are filled with colorful reefs, underwater caves, and even more WWII wrecks.
Even if you’re just snorkeling, you’ll be blown away by the biodiversity. Popular spots like Grand Central Station and Shark Point are world-renowned for the sheer number of fish species you can see in a single dive.
Day 7: Day Trip to Simbo Island
After getting your fill of the Gizo area, plan a boat trip to Simbo Island. It’s about an hour away from Gizo by boat, and when you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Simbo is a more traditional island, and many of the locals still live according to their ancient customs.
Tour the island, where you’ll see steaming geothermal pools, old village structures, and even skull shrines in caves. It’s an ethical cultural experience, as the villagers are happy to share their way of life with visitors.
Day 8: Munda and Roviana Lagoon Exploration
Say goodbye to Gizo and take a ferry or a short flight to Munda. This is another epicenter for diving and exploring the natural wonders of the Solomon Islands.
Once in Munda, head straight to Roviana Lagoon. Here, you’re surrounded by small uninhabited islands, and the water is incredibly calm. Spend the day paddleboarding, kayaking, or island hopping. It’s a perfect spot for some adventure and relaxation at the same time.
Day 9: Village Visits and WWII Sites around Munda
Today, take the opportunity to meet the locals. Several villages around Munda welcome visitors for a small fee or donation. This money often goes directly to communal projects, so it’s a sustainable way to support them.
After your village visit, head out to check out some additional WWII relics, like the rusted tanks and fighter planes that still rest in the jungle. These wartime ruins can be explored with a local guide, allowing you to hear the stories that still resonate from this period.
Day 10: Relax and Fly Back to Honiara
On your last day, take it easy. You can explore Munda one last time, snorkel in the lagoon, or just chill on the beach. Catch your flight back to Honiara in the late afternoon or evening.
Spend your last night in town, enjoying a quiet dinner and reflecting on your incredible adventure across the Solomon Islands. If you’ve got energy to spare, pop into the Pacific Casino Hotel for a low-key night of entertainment.
Wrapping Up
The Solomon Islands offer so much for a 10-day trip. Between the untouched beaches, the fascinating WWII history, and the welcoming locals, it’s easy to fall in love with this Pacific paradise. This itinerary is just a starting point—there’s so much more to explore in these islands if you’ve got more time.
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