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Choiseul, Solomon Islands - Things to Do in Choiseul

Choiseul

Saint Lucia, Solomon Islands - Complete Travel Guide

Saint Lucia Province, located in the western Solomon Islands, is one of the country's most pristine and culturally rich destinations. This elongated volcanic island stretches approximately 180 kilometers from northwest to southeast and remains largely untouched by mass tourism, offering visitors an authentic Melanesian experience. The province is renowned for its traditional wood carving, particularly the intricate carvings produced in villages like Susuka, and its stunning natural landscapes that include pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush tropical rainforests. The island's remote location has helped preserve its traditional way of life, where local communities still practice customary fishing, gardening, and craftsmanship passed down through generations. Saint Lucia offers exceptional opportunities for cultural immersion, world-class diving and snorkeling, and eco-tourism adventures. With its friendly local population, unspoiled natural environment, and rich cultural heritage, Saint Lucia provides an off-the-beaten-path experience that showcases the authentic beauty of the Solomon Islands.

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Traditional Wood Carving Village Visits

Experience the renowned wood carving traditions of Saint Lucia by visiting master craftsmen in villages like Susuka and Sasamunga. Watch artisans create intricate sculptures, bowls, and traditional artifacts using techniques passed down through generations. These visits offer deep cultural insights and opportunities to purchase authentic handcrafted souvenirs directly from the artists.

Booking Tip: Arrange visits through local guesthouses or community leaders, typically costing $20-40 per person including transportation. Best visited during weekday mornings when craftsmen are most active. Look for guides who can translate and provide cultural context.

Pristine Coral Reef Diving and Snorkeling

Explore Saint Lucia's untouched coral reefs and marine ecosystems, home to diverse tropical fish species, sea turtles, and pristine hard and soft corals. The island's remote location means these reefs see minimal diving pressure, offering exceptional visibility and healthy marine life. Popular sites include the reefs around Taro Island and the western coastline.

Booking Tip: Book through Gizo-based dive operators who offer day trips to Saint Lucia, costing $80-120 per person for two dives. Dry season (May-October) offers best conditions. Ensure operators have PADI certification and good safety records.

Traditional Fishing and Island Hopping

Join local fishermen for traditional fishing experiences using customary methods and explore the smaller islands surrounding Saint Lucia. These excursions combine cultural learning with scenic island hopping, visiting secluded beaches and learning about traditional navigation and fishing techniques still used by local communities.

Booking Tip: Arrange through village contacts or guesthouses for $30-50 per person for half-day trips. Early morning departures (6-7 AM) are most productive. Look for experiences that include traditional outrigger canoes and local guides.

Rainforest Trekking and Bird Watching

Trek through Saint Lucia's dense tropical rainforests to discover endemic bird species, unique flora, and traditional medicinal plants. The island's mountainous interior offers challenging hikes with rewarding views and opportunities to spot rare Solomon Islands wildlife. Local guides share knowledge about traditional uses of forest plants and conservation efforts.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides through village networks for $25-40 per day, including basic meals. Dry season provides better trail conditions. Choose guides familiar with bird identification and traditional plant knowledge for enhanced experiences.

Cultural Performances and Traditional Ceremonies

Witness authentic traditional dances, music performances, and cultural ceremonies that showcase Saint Lucia's rich Melanesian heritage. These performances often include traditional costumes, custom stories, and ancient rituals that provide deep insights into local beliefs and customs. Some experiences may include participation in traditional feast preparations.

Booking Tip: Coordinate with village chiefs or cultural groups, typically costing $15-30 per person depending on group size. Performances are often scheduled around full moons or special occasions. Respect photography restrictions and bring small gifts for hosts.

Getting There

Reaching Saint Lucia requires flying into Honiara, the Solomon Islands capital, then taking a domestic flight to Taro Island, which serves as Saint Lucia's main entry point. Solomon Airlines operates regular flights from Honiara to Taro, with flight times of approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, travelers can fly to Gizo in Western Province and arrange boat transfers to Saint Lucia, though this journey takes 2-3 hours by speedboat and depends on weather conditions. Some visitors also arrive via cargo ships from Honiara, which operate weekly schedules but require advance booking and flexibility with timing.

Getting Around

Transportation within Saint Lucia is primarily by boat, as the island has limited road infrastructure. Local boats and outrigger canoes provide connections between coastal villages and are the most reliable form of transport. Some areas have basic roads accessible by 4WD vehicles, which can be arranged through guesthouses or local contacts. Walking is common for shorter distances between nearby villages. For longer journeys or accessing remote areas, hiring local boats with experienced operators is essential, and travelers should always check weather conditions before departing.

Where to Stay

Taro Island guesthouses
Sasamunga village homestays
Susuka cultural lodges
Saint Lucia Bay eco-lodges
Local family homestays
Community-based accommodations

Food & Dining

Dining in Saint Lucia centers around fresh local ingredients including fish, tropical fruits, root vegetables, and coconut-based dishes. Most meals are prepared in traditional earth ovens or over open fires, creating authentic flavors unique to the region. Visitors staying in homestays or guesthouses will typically eat with host families, enjoying dishes like fish curry, cassava, sweet potato, and tropical fruits like breadfruit and papaya. Local markets in larger villages offer fresh produce and basic supplies, while some guesthouses can prepare meals with advance notice. The dining experience is communal and provides excellent opportunities for cultural exchange with local families.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Solomonislands

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Le Bernardin

4.6 /5
(4023 reviews) 4

La Tartaruga

4.6 /5
(608 reviews) 2
liquor_store store

La Villa Restaurant

4.8 /5
(498 reviews)

Restaurant L'Auberge Gourmande

4.9 /5
(349 reviews)

La Vela Italian Restaurant

4.5 /5
(360 reviews)

HOTTO

4.5 /5
(244 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

When to Visit

The best time to visit Saint Lucia is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is lower and sea conditions are calmer for boat travel and water activities. This period offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities, diving, and inter-island transportation. The wet season from November to April brings higher rainfall and rougher seas, which can disrupt transportation schedules and outdoor activities, though the landscape is lush and green. Temperatures remain relatively consistent year-round (24-30°C), but humidity is lower during the dry months, making activities more comfortable.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Solomon Islands dollars as there are no ATMs or card facilities on Saint Lucia - exchange money in Honiara before traveling
Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and basic medical supplies as these items are not readily available on the island
Learn basic Pijin phrases or bring a phrasebook, as English proficiency varies among locals, and showing language effort is greatly appreciated

Activities in Choiseul