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Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands - Things to Do in Guadalcanal

Things to Do in Guadalcanal

Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands - Complete Travel Guide

Guadalcanal, the largest island in the Solomon Islands, is a destination steeped in World War II history and blessed with pristine natural beauty. The island's capital, Honiara, serves as the gateway to exploring significant wartime sites, including battlefields, memorials, and underwater wrecks that tell the story of one of the Pacific's most pivotal campaigns. Beyond its historical significance, Guadalcanal offers visitors stunning coral reefs, lush rainforests, and traditional Melanesian villages where ancient customs remain vibrant. The island provides an authentic South Pacific experience away from mass tourism, where visitors can dive among world-class WWII wrecks, trek through untouched jungle to hidden waterfalls, and engage with local communities maintaining traditional ways of life. From the bustling Central Market in Honiara to remote villages accessible only by boat, Guadalcanal offers a unique blend of historical pilgrimage and tropical adventure that appeals to history buffs, divers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Top Things to Do in Guadalcanal

WWII Historical Sites Tour

Explore significant World War II battlefields, memorials, and museums that commemorate the Guadalcanal Campaign. Visit Henderson Field, Bloody Ridge, and various Japanese and Allied memorials scattered across the island. The Guadalcanal American Memorial and Japanese Peace Memorial provide sobering insights into one of the Pacific War's most crucial battles.

Booking Tip: Book through local tour operators in Honiara for $80-120 per person for full-day tours. Best visited during dry season (May-October) for easier access to remote sites. Look for guides with historical knowledge and 4WD vehicles for jungle battlefield sites.

World-Class Wreck Diving

Dive among some of the world's best-preserved WWII shipwrecks in Iron Bottom Sound, where numerous Japanese and Allied vessels rest in relatively shallow waters. The area offers exceptional visibility and marine life that has colonized these underwater monuments. Sites include destroyers, cruisers, and transport ships from both sides of the conflict.

Booking Tip: Dive operators charge $120-180 for two-tank wreck dives. Book with PADI-certified operators offering nitrox for extended bottom times. Best diving conditions April-November with 20-30m visibility.

Traditional Village Cultural Experiences

Visit authentic Melanesian villages to experience traditional Solomon Islands culture, including custom dancing, traditional crafts, and local storytelling. Many villages welcome visitors to participate in daily activities like fishing, cooking, and traditional ceremonies. These interactions provide genuine insights into Pacific Island life unchanged for generations.

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through local tour operators or guesthouses for $40-60 per person including transport and village fees. Always bring small gifts like school supplies. Respect photography restrictions and dress modestly.

Mataniko Falls Jungle Trek

Hike through dense tropical rainforest to reach the spectacular Mataniko Falls, where crystal-clear water cascades into natural swimming pools. The trek passes through traditional villages and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities with endemic species. The falls provide a refreshing swimming spot surrounded by pristine jungle.

Booking Tip: Half-day guided treks cost $50-80 per person including transport from Honiara. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring insect repellent. Best visited during dry season when river crossings are safer.

Central Market and Local Food Tour

Explore Honiara's vibrant Central Market, the heart of local commerce where vendors sell fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, seafood, and traditional crafts. Sample local delicacies like coconut crab, fresh fish prepared in traditional styles, and tropical fruits unique to the region. The market provides authentic cultural immersion and supports local communities.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (6-9 AM) for best selection and cooler temperatures. Budget $20-30 for food sampling and small purchases. Bring small bills in Solomon Island dollars and respect vendor photography preferences.

Getting There

Guadalcanal is accessed via Henderson International Airport (HIR) in Honiara, with Solomon Airlines providing regular flights from Brisbane, Australia and Fiji's Nadi. Virgin Australia also operates direct flights from Brisbane. Flight times are approximately 2.5 hours from Brisbane and 2 hours from Nadi. Some regional airlines offer connections through Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Upon arrival, the airport is about 20 minutes from central Honiara by taxi or pre-arranged hotel transfer.

Getting Around

Transportation around Guadalcanal relies primarily on taxis, rental cars, and local buses. Taxis are readily available in Honiara but should be negotiated in advance for longer journeys. Car rental agencies operate from the airport and city center, though roads outside Honiara can be challenging and 4WD vehicles are recommended for remote areas. Local buses and trucks provide inexpensive transport to nearby villages and attractions, while boat transfers are necessary for some coastal destinations. Many accommodations can arrange guided tours with transportation included.

Where to Stay

Honiara City Center
Point Cruz Waterfront
Henderson Airport Area
Kakabona Beach
White River
Tenaru

Food & Dining

Guadalcanal's dining scene centers around Honiara, where restaurants serve a mix of international cuisine, fresh seafood, and traditional Solomon Islands dishes. The Central Market offers the most authentic local food experience with fresh tropical fruits, grilled fish, and traditional preparations. Hotel restaurants typically serve international fare with some local influences, while smaller local eateries specialize in Chinese-Solomon fusion cuisine reflecting the diverse population. Fresh seafood is exceptional, particularly coconut crab, tuna, and reef fish prepared with local vegetables and coconut-based sauces. Betel nut and fresh coconut water are popular local beverages.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Solomon Islands

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)

When to Visit

The best time to visit Guadalcanal is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal and humidity levels are more comfortable. This period offers the best conditions for outdoor activities, diving, and accessing remote historical sites. The wet season (November-April) brings heavy rainfall, high humidity, and potential cyclone activity, though temperatures remain consistently warm year-round at 26-30°C (79-86°F). Diving is possible year-round, but visibility is best during dry season months. Book accommodations well in advance during ANZAC Day (April 25) when many Australians and New Zealanders visit for commemorative ceremonies.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Solomon Island dollars as ATMs are limited outside Honiara and credit cards aren't widely accepted
Pack insect repellent and long sleeves for jungle excursions as mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent
Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting villages and always ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies

Explore Activities in Guadalcanal