Best things to do in Honiara
Find out more about those top places in Honiara
Solomon Islands: The Untouched Gem of the Pacific
Looking for a getaway that’s off the beaten path, where nature still reigns supreme and adventure is never far behind? Welcome to the Solomon Islands—a place so beautiful, even King Solomon would have been jealous! Named after the legendary king by Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendana, who, by the way, was convinced these islands were overflowing with riches (spoiler alert: no gold, but lots of other treasures!). This oceanic paradise consists of 6 major islands and over 900 smaller islands, making it the perfect place for those who want to explore, relax, and completely forget what "real life" feels like.
Things to Do in the Solomon Islands: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Whether you're a history buff, a beach bum, or a nature enthusiast, the Solomon Islands have something for you. The best part? You won’t find the usual crowds or tourist traps—just unspoiled beauty and experiences that’ll make you feel like you’ve discovered a secret world all your own.
1. Relive History at WWII Sites
For those with an interest in history, the Solomon Islands are a must-visit. The islands played a major role during World War II, and there are numerous WWII sites scattered throughout, offering a mix of sightseeing and reflection. From the Iron Bottom Sound (a sunken graveyard for warships) to Guadalcanal, one of the most famous battlefields of the war, the islands provide a unique opportunity to learn about their fascinating and turbulent history. You can even dive to see some of the sunken wrecks—talk about an unforgettable underwater adventure!
2. Waterfalls That Will Make You Want to Jump In
The Solomon Islands are filled with some of the most stunning waterfalls you've ever seen. If you love nature, waterfalls are a top attraction you won’t want to miss. Imagine hiking through lush rainforests, feeling the tropical heat on your back, and then suddenly stumbling upon a pristine waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool. Mataniko Falls and Tenaru Falls are two of the top places to visit for an exhilarating, yet serene experience. Just don’t forget your camera—and maybe a towel if you’re planning on taking a dip!
3. Beaches So Beautiful They Might Be Fake
Let’s talk about the beaches. Imagine white sand so soft, it feels like walking on clouds, and turquoise waters so clear, you can see fish swimming right by your feet. The Solomon Islands offer some of the best beaches in the world, with countless opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing and soaking in the beauty of your surroundings. Marovo Lagoon, the largest saltwater lagoon in the world, is definitely one of the top attractions for any beach lover. Here, the vibrant coral reefs and marine life will make you feel like you’re swimming through a postcard.
4. Dive Into Coral Reefs and Uncharted Waters
If you love scuba diving, you’ll find that the Solomon Islands are practically paradise. With untouched coral reefs and abundant marine life, the islands offer some of the best diving experiences in the Pacific. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, the waters here are perfect for exploring. From dolphins to giant sea turtles, there’s a whole underwater world to discover that’s sure to leave you in awe.
5. Unique Local Culture and Warm Hospitality
The Solomon Islands are not just about beaches and nature; the local culture here is as rich and vibrant as the landscape. The people of the Solomon Islands are known for their warm hospitality, and you’ll find that they’re more than happy to share their traditions with visitors. From village visits to local markets, you’ll get a taste of what life is like on these islands—and trust us, it’s worth it.
Top Attractions You Can’t Miss
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Guadalcanal: This historical island is famous for its WWII sites, including battlefields, memorials, and sunken warships. A must-visit for history lovers.
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Marovo Lagoon: The world’s largest saltwater lagoon, perfect for snorkeling, diving, or just kicking back and enjoying the view.
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Ribisi Island: If you’re looking for a more secluded getaway, Ribisi Island offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and a sense of total peace. It’s a great place to relax and forget about the rest of the world.
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Tenaru Falls: A dramatic waterfall tucked away in the forest, perfect for a nature hike and a refreshing swim.
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**The National Museum: If you’re in Honiara, make sure to stop by the National Museum to get a deeper understanding of the Solomon Islands' history and rich cultural heritage.
Why You Need to Visit the Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands are a traveler’s dream—a place where you can dive into the depths of history, trek through lush jungles to discover hidden waterfalls, or simply bask on breathtaking beaches that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a paradise postcard. Whether you're looking for things to do in nature, a bit of historical exploration, or simply a quiet place to unwind, the Solomon Islands check all the boxes.
This destination might not be as famous as some others in the Pacific, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. So, if you’re searching for a place to visit that will take you back in time, whisk you away to nature’s best, and help you forget all your troubles, the Solomon Islands are calling your name! And trust us, you’ll never want to leave.
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Tenaru Falls
Probably the Solomon Islands most visited natural attraction, it is said to be the best waterfall in the South Pacific. The Tenaru Falls can be found in Guadalcanal, about 2 km south of Tanuru Village – it is an amazing 63 m waterfall that gets it sources from Chea River and cascades over rocks to form a natural river. Reaching the Falls, requires hiking – might be a bit tedious but very achievable, after which visitors can cool off in its natural pool before journeying back.
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Skull Island
Just as the name suggests, it is a place filled with skulls situated in the Western Provinces. The skulls are arranged in shrines, they belong to the vanquished victims of the Western Provinces and the past Rendovan Chiefs. To explore Skull Islands, you need to be shown around by a local Chief. Very sacred to the indigenes, it is believed that a visit without the guidance of the Chief might lead to grave danger.
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Vilu War Museum
Not much to see at the WWII Museum except if you are into aircrafts and war equipment. The museum is filled with remnants of weapons used during the Guadalcanal campaign which led to the killing of over 30,000 troops. Some items displayed include unexploded shells, artery pieces and the museum’s star attractions a collection of old aircrafts.
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Honiara Central Market
To put your bargaining prowess to the test, head to the Honiara central market. Located between Mendana Avenue and the seafront, the market was established in the 1950s and it remains the number one trading center on the island. Primarily a food market, one can easily find other items as including bags, clothes, traditional artworks and jewelry.
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Guadalcanal American Memorial
Built for the Americans and their allies who died during the Guadalcanal Campaign - a battle fought against the Japanese force during World War II. The memorial dedicated on the 7th of August marking the 50th year anniversary, features four wooden boards pointing to different directions where the battles happened and a set of five marble plaques with the name of the ships lost in battle inscribed on them.
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Solomon Islands Beaches
No trip to the Solomon Island is complete without a visit to at least one of its numerous beaches. Known as the primary spots for relaxation, there are several beaches littered around the islands. Most featuring resorts as well, some interesting beaches to visit include the Bonegi Beach and Guadalcanal beach.
