Things To Do
in Solomon Islands
Solomon Islands is a Pacific nation of over 900 islands known for pristine reefs, WWII history, and Melanesian culture. The archipelago offers world-class diving and snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons with abundant marine life. Life here is laid-back, centered on village communities, fishing, and family.
Travelers should be prepared for limited infrastructure on outer islands but will be rewarded with stunning natural beauty and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Honiara International Airport and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while soaking in views of the beautiful coastline. Spend the morning acclimatizing to the local climate and culture, exploring your surroundings.
Visit the National Museum to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Solomon Islands. Afterward, stroll through the bustling Honiara Central Market, where you can experience local flavors and crafts. Grab lunch at a nearby café that specializes in fresh, local seafood.
Enjoy a sunset dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling local dishes such as grilled fish and coconut curry. Take a leisurely walk along the coast as the sun sets, igniting the sky with vibrant colors. End your night with a visit to a local bar for some live music and a taste of Solomon Islands' nightlife.
Board a boat for a scenic ride to Venua Island, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend the morning snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch on the beach.
Engage in cultural activities like traditional weaving or carving with local artisans. Explore the island on foot, visiting hidden waterfalls and lush rainforest areas. Learn about the indigenous flora and fauna from your guide.
Settle down for a beachfront barbecue dinner with freshly caught fish and local produce. Share stories around the fire with the locals under a starlit sky, deepening your connection to the island. Retire to your beach hut with the sound of waves lapping at the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week (basic items) | $50-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class diving and snorkeling with rich marine life
- Warm, welcoming communities and vibrant culture
- Limited infrastructure in outer islands and fewer luxury options
- Inter-island travel can be time-consuming and costly
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Tenkyu" - Thank you
- "Plis" - Please
- "Wea bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mi laik hampla long Solomon Islands" - I am visiting the Solomon Islands
- "Mi no save" - I don’t understand
- "Wanem nao?" - What is this?
Places to Visit in Solomon Islands
Visit one of these nice places.
A harbor view with colorful boats and palm silhouettes, ideal for sunset photography and reflections on the water.
Vibrant stalls, textures, and colors—great for street photography, portraits, and market scenes.
Historic riverbanks with WWII remnants and lively local life; atmospheric for documentary photography.
Expansive turquoise lagoons and islets perfect for wide-angle seascapes and sunrise shots.
Food in Solomon Islands
Solomon Islands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taro leaves baked in coconut milk, often with onion and sometimes meat; a staple at family gatherings and village feasts.
Must-Try!
Tuna simmered in coconut milk with local spices, served with yam or taro.
A hearty stew of fresh fish, yams, and greens in a light coconut broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant hub for fresh seafood, tropical fruits, root crops, and ready-to-eat snacks; ideal for tasting local flavors.
Grilled tuna, cassava chips, roasted coconut, and fried plantains commonly found around market perimeters and waterfronts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a handshake or respectful nod; dress modestly when visiting villages; ask for permission before taking photos of people or ceremonies.
Respect local customs, land, and storytelling; avoid touching sacred objects or entering restricted spaces without invitation.
Safety
Tipping in Solomon Islands
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service, especially in urban or tourist-focused venues; small cash gifts may be given after a special meal or performance.
Cash (Solomon Islands dollar) is widely accepted; some urban businesses take major cards, but rural areas rely on cash; ATMs are limited outside Honiara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May to October brings drier weather, clearer skies, and calmer seas—ideal for outdoor activities, island hops, and diving visibility.
November to April brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers; afternoons can be rainy, but landscapes are lush and waterfalls at their fullest.
Solomon Islands at Night
Hiking in Solomon Islands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rainforest hike near Honiara leading to a scenic waterfall; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Coastal ridge trail with panoramic lagoon views and opportunities to spot seabirds.
Easygoing coastal path with sea breezes, village encounters, and island scenery.
Airports
How to reach Solomon Islands by plane.
The main gateway to the Solomon Islands, serving international and domestic flights; transfers are typically arranged by taxi or pre-booked shuttle.
A smaller domestic airport serving the Western Province; ideal for reaching Gizo and nearby islands; inter-island travel is common by boat.
Remote airstrip serving eastern islands; connections are usually via Honiara or regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The bulk of the population, with a rich array of languages and kastom traditions across the islands.
Tourists, aid workers, and professionals in urban centers; English is widely understood in towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local and regional matches and youth programs across the islands.
Gaining popularity, with community leagues and regional competitions.
Some outer-island breaks attract surfers looking for uncrowded waves and pristine coastlines.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are growing in towns: look for greens, root crops, and coconut-based curries; ask for dishes without fish sauce or meat and request vegetable stews.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Solomon Islands.