Find the Solomon Islands’ capital city nestled in the lush hills of Guadalcanal, where World War II history and local customs are etched into the forest.
Honiara is the capital city and gateway to the Solomon Islands. Situated on the island of Guadalcanal, Honiara is surrounded by tropical greenery and coral-ringed coastline, and dotted with World War II relics. Check out the city’s enthralling local markets and historic government buildings. Enjoy beautiful botanical gardens and poignant memorial parks and find the region’s secret waterfalls and rainforest groves.
Explore the city itself. The Honiara Central Market is ideal for observing local lifestyles. Stock up on tropical fruits and vegetables and discover a selection of beautiful handmade traditional crafts. Pick up wooden carvings, wooden baskets, jewellery and lava-lava skirts. Check out the ocean-fresh fish market behind the main marketplace, where the day’s catch is displayed at each bustling stall.
During World War II, the hills around Honiara were the front lines of the bloody Battle of Guadalcanal. The Guadalcanal American Memorial and Solomons Peace Memorial Park serve as touching monuments to the lives lost during wartime in this area. Learn about the battle at the National Museum, which also exhibits traditional handicrafts and Melanesian cultural artefacts.
Nearby, find the Cultural Centre and appreciate the painting collection at the National Art Gallery within the Old Government House. The local Botanical Gardens of the National Art Gallery showcase tropical jungle species, including pretty water lilies and different species of orchid.
Outside of town, be sure to see the region’s stunning tropical landscapes. Join a guided tour to view Tenaru Falls or Matanikau Falls. Visit Mbonege Beach for a swim or book an adventure tour or boat charter to see more of the island’s gorgeous tropical coastline.
Honiara is located in the Solomon Sea on Guadalcanal’s northern coast. Reach the Solomon Islands with a flight to Honiara International Airport from Australia, Fiji, Vanuatu or Papua New Guinea. Once you’re in Honiara, travel by taxi and minibus. While the region has recovered from civil unrest at the end of the 1900s, it’s still good practice to be wary of pickpockets and avoid walking alone at night. Outside Honiara, explore nearby Savo Island to see volcanoes and nesting mounds of megapode birds.
