Exploring the Solomon Islands: A Comprehensive 7-Day Travel Guide

A Tropical Retreat: Exploring the Hapi Isles of the Solomon Islands

If you haven't heard of the Solomon Islands, you're not alone. 26,000 visitors per year might say the same. But the lucky ones who've visited this remote archipelago nestled between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu can't shut up about it. That includes me, now that I've set foot on these South Pacific paradises.

Situated about three hours from Brisbane, these islands remain a hidden gem for divers, birders, and WWII history buffs. But don't be fooled by its lack of opulent resorts—with an abundance of marine life, exotic culture (speaking over 70 dialects!), and effortless exploration, the Solomon Islands might just be the next big adventure outpost.

So, are you ready to embark on your very own Solomons escape? This week-long itinerary will take you from the bustling capital city of Honiara to the sun-soaked shores of the Western Province, perfect for surfing, diving, snorkeling, hiking, and immersing in the rich Melanesian cultural traditions.

When to Go

The Solomon Islands is a year-round destination, with four direct flights a week from Brisbane, Australia, and three more from Nadi, Fiji (as the region's main hub, offering connections to Tokyo, Singapore, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Vancouver). Travel times typically land between 5pm and 8:30pm, making an on-site restaurant handy at your hotel.

Getting There and Around

Honiara International Airport is centrally located, but the 12km (7.5 miles) journey to the city center can take over 30 minutes during peak hours. Choose a hotel with an on-site restaurant or arrange airport pickup, available through hotels or operators like Hapi Isles Tours & Transfers.

Dreaming of island-hopping adventure? Domestic flights with Solomon Airlines serve more than 20 destinations, including Munda and Gizo in the Western Province, making it fast and easy to get around. For shorter distances, you can charter banana boats and soak up the stunning scenery. While reliable, island-hopping flights can occasionally be delayed—so, remember to build some buffer days into your itinerary!

What to Pack

A backpack: Maximize space and convenience in checked luggage limited to 16kg (35lb).
Modest clothing: Brightly colored garments might draw attention, while covered shoulders and long pants or skirts are a mark of respect in traditional villages.
Snorkeling gear: Some accommodations provide gear, but it may not be available in sizes to fit all or in good condition.
Walking poles: For hiking, hilly terrain, and trekking trails.
Cash: Credit cards are rarely accepted outside of major hotels, so bring plenty of local currency.
A good book and a deck of cards: A practical choice for passing the time and enjoying the simple pleasures during your Solomon Islands getaway.

Where to Stay

Honiara has bougie hotels, while accommodation options elsewhere range from basic motels to resort-like bungalows. Here are some standout choices:

Heritage Park Hotel (Honiara): This stylish retreat offers waterfront dining, a pool, and rooms with air conditioning.
Fatboys Resort (Western Province): The ultimate spot to unwind, with overwater bungalows, direct snorkeling access, and a vibrant surf scene.
Imbu Rano Lodge (Kolombangara Island): This wilderness lodge is perfect for birdwatchers and adventurers, with sweeping views, minimal amenities, and no connectivity.

Day 1: Honiara

Start your Solomons adventure by exploring Honiara's highlights, such as the Central Market, Solomon Islands National Museum, and the American War Memorial. For a full-day tour, add Mbonege Beach, where you'll find the Kinugawa Maru shipwreck, and stunning seaside views.

Day 2: Savo Island

Savo Island is home to rich cultural traditions and spectacular geothermal wonders. Visit the scenic village of Kuila, where local guides will introduce you to Savosavo language and customs. Discover the island's stunning landscapes, with options for hiking, scenic drives, and waterfall tours.

Day 3: Munda, your gateway to the Western Province

Fly to Munda and embark on a unique adventure to Kunda Hite (a.k.a. Skull Island), a sacred island showcasing traditional artifacts and skulls of chiefs and conquests from the head-hunting era. Dive into the crystal-clear waters, where manta rays, turtles, and whale sharks may grace you with their presence.

Day 4: Marovo Lagoon

Sail on a charming wooden kat sailboat and discover the stunning wonders of Marovo Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit traditional villages, kayak through mangrove forests, and swim in its beautifully blue waters.

Day 5 & 6: Gizo

Tailor your time in Gizo to your adventure-seeking heart's desire: dive, snorkel, surf, kayak, or simply relax on pristine, deserted beaches. Pristine marine parks, WWII shipwrecks, and colorful reefs await!

Day 7: exceptional encounters

Wrap up your Solomons escapade with an unforgettable encounter with manta rays, while snorkeling in the waters around Gizo. Before heading back to Honiara, don't miss the chance to savor delicious local seafood and enjoy a final moment of this exotic paradise's breathtaking beauty.

Jessica Lockhart explored the Solomon Islands at the invitation of Tourism Solomons, but our website does not accept freebies for positive coverage.

Enrichment Data:

When you find yourself in the Solomon Islands, harness these unique opportunities to create a journey of adventure and cultural exploration:

Wreck Diving & Snorkeling: Discover WWII shipwrecks and planes amid pristine coral reefs by diving with operators such as Dive Gizo.
Surfing: Uncrowded waves and consistent breaks offer a surreal surfing experience for experts and beginners alike. Gizo is an up-and-coming surf destination.
Island Hopping & Kayaking: Access breathtaking secluded beaches, visit traditional villages, and explore secretive lagoons via kayak or catamaran.
Cultural Immersion: Engage with authentic Pacific Islander traditions through local markets, workshops, and festivals.
Marine Wildlife Encounters: From manta rays and whale sharks to vivid reef fish, plan memorable wildlife-spotting adventures, from shore-based encounters to snorkeling and diving expeditions.

The Solomon Islands, unbelievably underrated, with only 26,000 visitors per year, might just be the next big tropical escapade you'd love to explore.
Fair deals are in store for those willing to venture into this rugged paradise as the region offers connections to Tokyo, Singapore, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Vancouver from its main hub, Nadi, Fiji.
If you're ready to escape the norm, considering the Hapi Isles of the Solomon Islands could be your perfect fairytale escape for a week-long adventure.
For the fashion-conscious travelers, it's best to pack modest clothing that respects the culture of traditional Melanesian villages, as brightly colored garments might draw unwanted attention.
Along with exploring the exotic culture, food-and-drink lovers can also delight in the local cuisine, which often includes fresh seafood caught daily.
As you journey around the colorful isles, don't forget to capture the moments with your camera or smartphone, for those back-home relationships will surely appreciate vacation pictures that feature remarkable pets and stunning landscapes.
As your adventure comes to an end, remember the Solomon Islands is a year-round destination, ensuring that your next travel to this enchanting paradise is just as mesmerizing as the first one.