Solomon Islands

The Touratu Guide to

Solomon Islands

11 States to Explore in Solomon Islands

UPDATED JUNE 11, 2026

Explore Solomon Islands Travel Map & Highlights

Solomon Islands Brief

The Solomon Islands is a Pacific archipelago of over 900 islands known for stunning coral reefs, WWII historical sites, and authentic Melanesian culture. Located east of Papua New Guinea, this remote destination offers pristine beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling, and opportunities to experience traditional village life. The islands attract history buffs, diving enthusiasts, and travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path Pacific experiences. While infrastructure is developing, the genuine hospitality and natural beauty make it a unique travel destination.

• Capital: Honiara • Currency: Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD) • Official Language: English • Main Religion: Christianity (Anglican, Catholic, Methodist) • Best Months: May to October (dry season) • Average Weather: Tropical; 24-28°C year-round, high humidity • Famous Tourist Cities: Honiara, Gizo, Munda, Tulaghi • Time Zone: UTC+11 • Visa Note: Most nationalities receive 30 days visa-free entry • Popular Experiences: Scuba diving, snorkeling, WWII history tours, island hopping, cultural village visits, kayaking, fishing

Frequently Asked Questions About Solomon Islands

Everything you need to know before visiting Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands is generally safe for travelers who exercise standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables, don't travel alone at night in Honiara, and stay aware of your surroundings. Rural islands and organized tours are typically safer. Check current travel advisories before departure as security situations vary by region.

Budget $80-150 USD daily covering mid-range accommodation, meals, and activities. Basic guesthouses cost $40-60, local meals $8-15, diving $100-150 per dive. Budget travelers can manage $50-70 daily; luxury travelers should budget $250+. Remote islands and organized tours increase costs significantly.

Seven to ten days allows exploration of Honiara, island hopping to Gizo or Munda, and diving experiences. Five days covers Honiara and one secondary island. Two weeks enables comprehensive island exploration, multiple diving locations, and cultural immersion. Consider flights between islands when planning itineraries.

May to October offers dry season weather, cooler temperatures, and calm seas—ideal for diving and island activities. November to April brings heavy rainfall, cyclone risk, and higher humidity. Visiting during dry season costs more but ensures better weather and reduced safety concerns from cyclones.

Domestic flights connect major islands via Solomon Airlines; book in advance. Inter-island ferries operate sporadically—expect delays. Honiara has taxis and local buses; rental cars available but roads are limited. Most travelers combine flights with organized tours and speedboat transfers to reach remote islands efficiently.

Visit traditional villages through organized tours to learn about Melanesian customs, traditional crafts, and daily life. Attend local markets in Honiara for authentic experiences. Hire local guides to share cultural knowledge. Participate respectfully in ceremonies when invited. Always ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites.

Santa Isabel Island offers pristine beaches with fewer tourists. Kennedy Island provides WWII history and excellent diving. Rennell Island features unique ecosystems and saltwater lakes. Marovo Lagoon is ideal for kayaking and snorkeling without crowds. Northern atolls offer remote experiences but require organized travel and advance planning.

Gizo region offers world-class diving with Japanese shipwrecks and coral reefs. Munda features pristine reefs and abundant marine life. Iron Bottom Sound near Honiara provides WWII wreck diving. Marovo Lagoon delivers excellent snorkeling. Most dive shops are PADI-certified; bring certification or arrange courses locally.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for tropical humidity. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and medications—pharmacies are limited outside Honiara. Include diving certification if certified, water shoes for reef walking, and a reusable water bottle. Modest clothing respects local culture. An international power adapter is essential for this destination.

Touratu maps Instagram photos and YouTube videos to real Solomon Islands destinations, revealing where travelers have captured stunning moments. Discover authentic locations, hidden beaches, and dive sites through geotagged content. Browse user-generated travel inspiration to plan your itinerary based on real traveler experiences and experiences across the islands.