Tourist attractions

East Rennell (World Heritage Site)

Region: Rennell and Bellona Province

Nature

An island with raised coral reefs and Lake Tegano, rich in biodiversity.

Marovo Lagoon

Region: Western Province, New Georgia Islands

Nature

The world's largest saltwater lagoon, over 100km long, a snorkeling paradise.

American War Memorial

Region: Honiara

Historical Site

A hilltop memorial commemorating the Battle of Guadalcanal.

Bonegi Wreck Point

Region: West Coast of Guadalcanal Island

Dive Site

World War II cargo ships and destroyers resting at 15m depth, ideal for beginner wreck dives.

Mataniko Falls

Region: Honiara Suburbs

Nature

A large waterfall flowing through tropical rainforest, a popular trekking destination.

Tetepare Island Protected Area

Region: Western Province

Nature

An entire uninhabited island operated as a community ecotourism reserve.

Kennedy Island

Region: Near Gizo

History/Nature

Famous for President J.F. Kennedy's landing, with white sand and excellent snorkeling transparency.

Skull Island

Region: Off Munda

Cultural Heritage

A sacred site housing the skulls of chiefs from the headhunting era.

Honiara Central Market

Region: Honiara

Cultural Experience

A lively market with vegetables, shell money, and wood carvings from the islands.

Langa Langa Lagoon

Region: West Coast of Malaita Island

Culture/Nature

A bay dotted with shell money workshops where traditional canoes come and go.

Suggested itineraries

Guadalcanal History & Nature 5 Days

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: American War Memorial, Bonegi Wreck Dive, Mataniko Falls, Central Market

A short-term plan combining war site tours in Honiara city with tropical rainforest trekking and wreck diving.

Western Province Island Hopping & Diving 7 Days

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Gizo, Kennedy Island, Marovo Lagoon, Skull Island, Tetepare Island

Using speedboats and lodges, enjoy consecutive days of diving in one of the world's clearest lagoons.

East Rennell World Heritage Exploration 4 Days

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Lake Tegano Kayaking, Coconut Crab Watching, Limestone Caves, Traditional Song Performance

Access by air and motorboat to immerse yourself in the pristine nature and island culture of this World Heritage site.

Travel tips

  • Take malaria prophylaxis in advance and maintain thorough mosquito repellent measures
  • Be cautious of squalls and cyclones during the rainy season (November-April)
  • Domestic flights have strict weight limits; over 10kg incurs additional charges
  • When visiting villages, bringing gifts like biscuits or soap is appreciated
  • Credit cards are unavailable outside urban areas; prepare cash (SBD)
  • Public transport is reduced and shops close on Sundays; allow extra time in your itinerary
  • Boil tap water or use bottled water; avoid ice
  • When diving, do not take relics from shipwrecks
  • East Rennell and Temotu Province have many areas with no communication; satellite communication is recommended
  • Pay reef fees and landing fees in cash and receive receipts
  • Do not step on coral; use reef-safe sunscreen products
  • In case of typhoons, flights may be canceled for extended periods; secure extra days
  • Saying "Tagio tumas" (thank you) in local Pijin creates a good impression
  • Drive on the left; nighttime lighting is scarce, so daytime rental car driving is recommended