Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands are a remote Pacific archipelago of rainforest-covered islands, WWII relics, and traditional village life. Honiara, the capital on Guadalcanal, has museums and war memorials, but the real draw lies beyond. Pristine reefs, lagoons, and shipwrecks make the islands a top diving destination, especially in places like Munda and Gizo. Inland, trekking through jungle trails leads to waterfalls, volcanic peaks, and cultural encounters with local communities. Life moves slowly, guided by custom and connection to the land. Untouched and unpolished, the Solomons offer a raw, authentic escape for divers, adventurers, and those looking far off the beaten path.

The ferocious battles that plagued the islands during WWII have now been replaced by ethnic clashes between the Guadalcanalese islanders and the Malaitans, diminishing their appeal as a tourist destination. Ethnic tensions are complemented by frequent power cuts and fuel crisis, which are overshadowed by even greater threats to the happiness of holidaymakers such as man-eating salt water crocodiles and malaria-spreading mosquitoes. Travelers without a death wish may wish to choose an alternative island for trekking through rugged mountains and exploring coral atolls, as let’s face it; there are plenty of other safer places.

Most travelers come for the WWII history, epic diving, and off-grid exploration. The capital, Honiara, on Guadalcanal, has markets, museums, and war memorials, but the real draw is beyond: diving WWII wrecks in Iron Bottom Sound, surfing breaks with no crowds, visiting traditional villages, and hiking through rainforest to waterfalls or volcanic peaks. It’s not polished, not easy, but it’s real, and that’s what makes it worth the trip.

Solomon Islands are affordable once you arrive, but flights and logistics can add up. There are simple guesthouses, eco-lodges, and basic bungalows, often built and run by local communities. You won’t find luxury resorts or all-inclusive stays here. Meals are typically fish, rice, taro, greens, and tropical fruit, fresh but plain. Supplies are limited outside Honiara, and you won’t find imported comfort foods unless you bring them yourself. Internet is slow, patchy, or nonexistent outside the capital.

Getting around means flying between islands, hiring boats, or sometimes just waiting, timetables are loose, and travel is weather-dependent. Solomon Airlines connects major islands, but smaller places may require charter flights or long boat rides. Roads are few, and often in rough shape. English is the official language, but Solomon Pijin is more widely spoken. The islands are generally safe, but services are limited, so independent travelers need to be self-sufficient and flexible.

Why Go to the Solomon Islands?

• WWII History & Wreck Diving: Dive sunken ships and planes in Iron Bottom Sound, explore war relics, or visit battlefields like Bloody Ridge.
• Off-the-Grid Adventure: Hike to waterfalls, explore volcanic islands, or stay in traditional villages far from any tourist trail.
• World-Class Reefs & Marine Life: Snorkel coral walls in Marovo Lagoon, dive untouched reefs in Munda, or freedive in crystal-clear lagoons.
• Culture & Village Life: Visit communities where kastom (traditional custom) is still practiced, expect storytelling, dance, and deep hospitality.
• Birding & Biodiversity: Spot rare birds, orchids, and butterflies, many species here are found nowhere else on Earth.
• Island-Hopping Without the Crowds: Travel by boat to remote islands where you may be the only visitor for weeks.
• Slow, Honest Travel: Forget about fast Wi-Fi or resort life, this is raw travel, where the journey matters more than the itinerary.

Who Might Not Enjoy the Solomon Islands?

• Travelers Expecting Smooth Tourism Infrastructure: The Solomon Islands are still developing their tourism sector. Flights can be delayed or infrequent, accommodations may be basic outside of a few eco-resorts, and signage or services for travelers can be limited.

• First-Time or Casual Tourists: This is a destination best suited to experienced travelers. Independent travel requires patience, flexibility, and a good understanding of local conditions.

• Luxury-Oriented Visitors: While there are a few high-end eco-lodges, the country lacks luxury resorts, spas, or fine dining experiences. Amenities are simple, and service can be informal.

• Tourists Without a Water-Based Focus: The Solomon Islands are a haven for diving, snorkeling, and island exploration. If you’re not into marine activities, your options for sightseeing may feel limited.

• Those Uncomfortable with Basic Conditions: In many areas, roads are rough, electricity and internet access are spotty, and medical care is limited. Travelers expecting Western standards may be disappointed.

• Vegetarians or Vegans: Local cuisine is fish- and starch-based, with limited vegetables and even fewer meat alternatives. Special diets can be hard to accommodate, especially outside Honiara.

• Travelers Looking for Nightlife or Urban Entertainment: There’s virtually no nightlife scene. Even the capital, Honiara, is quiet after dark. There are no clubs, casinos, or big entertainment venues.

• Shoppers or Cruise Tourists Wanting Big Attractions: There are no major tourist “must-sees” or shopping districts. The experience here is low-key, nature- and culture-focused, and often slow-paced.

• Visitors Uncomfortable with Cultural Differences or Poverty: The Solomon Islands are one of the poorest countries in the Pacific. Conditions can be stark, and travelers need cultural sensitivity and realism.