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Iron Bottom Sound, Solomon Islands - Things to Do in Iron Bottom Sound

Things to Do in Iron Bottom Sound

Iron Bottom Sound, Solomon Islands - Complete Travel Guide

Iron Bottom Sound is a historically significant body of water located between Guadalcanal, Savo Island, and Florida Island in the Solomon Islands. Named for the numerous warships that rest on its seabed from World War II naval battles, this area serves as both a solemn war memorial and one of the world's premier wreck diving destinations. The sound witnessed some of the most intense naval combat of the Pacific War between 1942-1943, including the famous Battle of Guadalcanal. Today, Iron Bottom Sound attracts history enthusiasts, wreck divers, and those seeking to understand the Pacific Theater's pivotal moments. The crystal-clear tropical waters provide exceptional visibility for exploring sunken vessels, while the surrounding islands offer stunning natural beauty and rich Melanesian culture. Visitors can combine world-class diving with cultural experiences, making it a unique destination that honors the past while showcasing the Solomon Islands' natural splendor.

Top Things to Do in Iron Bottom Sound

World War II Wreck Diving

Explore the underwater museum of sunken warships, including cruisers, destroyers, and transport vessels that lie in 20-60 meters of water. The wrecks are remarkably well-preserved in the warm tropical waters, offering divers a unique opportunity to witness history firsthand. Popular sites include the USS Atlanta, HMAS Canberra, and several Japanese vessels.

Booking Tip: Book with certified dive operators in Honiara charging $80-150 per dive. Best visibility is April-October. Ensure operators have proper safety equipment and knowledge of wreck locations. Advanced Open Water certification recommended.

Guadalcanal Historical Battlefield Tours

Visit significant World War II battle sites on Guadalcanal Island, including Henderson Field, Bloody Ridge, and various memorials. These guided tours provide context to the naval battles that occurred in Iron Bottom Sound. Learn about the strategic importance of the campaign and see artifacts from the conflict.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost $60-100 per person including transport and guide. Book through Honiara tour operators or hotels. Tours run year-round but roads may be challenging during wet season (November-March).

Snorkeling Over Shallow Wrecks

For non-divers, several aircraft wrecks and smaller vessels lie in shallow water accessible by snorkeling. The clear waters offer excellent visibility to see coral-encrusted remains of fighters and bombers. This activity provides a more accessible way to connect with the area's wartime history.

Booking Tip: Half-day snorkeling trips cost $40-70 including equipment and boat transport. Best during calm weather April-October. Choose operators with good safety records and local knowledge of shallow wreck sites.

Savo Island Cultural Experience

Visit the traditional villages on Savo Island to experience authentic Melanesian culture and learn about local perspectives on the war. The island features active volcanic hot springs, traditional crafts, and warm hospitality from local communities. Villagers often share stories passed down about the wartime period.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $50-80 including boat transport and village fees. Arrange through local operators or directly with village chiefs. Bring small gifts for hosts and respect local customs. Best visited during dry season.

Memorial Site Visits and Museum Tours

Explore the various war memorials around Honiara and visit the Solomon Islands National Museum to understand the broader context of the Pacific War. The Guadalcanal American Memorial and Japanese Peace Memorial offer sobering reminders of the conflict's human cost.

Booking Tip: Museum entry is $10-15, memorials are free. Self-guided visits possible, but guided tours ($30-50) provide valuable historical context. Allow full day to visit multiple sites. Operating hours vary, check locally.

Getting There

Iron Bottom Sound is accessed primarily through Honiara, the capital of Solomon Islands, which has the country's main international airport (HIR). Solomon Airlines operates regular flights from Brisbane, Australia, and Nadi, Fiji, with connections to other Pacific destinations. From Honiara, boat operators and dive centers provide access to the sound's wreck sites. Most visitors stay in Honiara and take day trips to diving and snorkeling locations throughout the sound.

Getting Around

Transportation around Iron Bottom Sound relies heavily on boats and water taxis, which can be arranged through dive operators, hotels, or local boat owners. In Honiara, taxis and rental cars are available for reaching coastal departure points and historical sites on Guadalcanal. Many tour operators provide comprehensive packages including land and water transport. For visiting outer islands like Savo, organized boat trips are essential as public transport is limited.

Where to Stay

Honiara Central
Point Cruz Yacht Club Area
Rove Peninsula
White River
Kakabona Beach
Tambea Resort Area

Food & Dining

Dining options center around Honiara, featuring a mix of international cuisine and local Solomon Islands specialties. Fresh seafood is abundant, with tuna, mahi-mahi, and reef fish commonly served. Local dishes include kokoda (coconut fish ceviche), sweet potato, taro, and tropical fruits. Several restaurants cater to international visitors with Australian and Asian influences, while local markets offer authentic island cuisine. Many dive operators and tour companies include meals in their packages, often featuring fresh-caught fish and local produce.

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 Iron Bottom Sound is during the dry season from April to October, when seas are calmer, visibility underwater is optimal, and weather is more predictable. This period offers the best diving conditions with minimal rainfall and steady trade winds. The wet season (November-March) can bring cyclones, rough seas, and reduced visibility, though water temperatures remain warm year-round at 26-28°C. For wreck diving specifically, May through September provides the most consistent conditions.

Insider Tips

Book diving and snorkeling trips well in advance, as there are limited operators and equipment can be scarce during peak season
Bring your own diving certification cards and logbook, as operators strictly verify qualifications for wreck diving due to the technical nature of the sites
Respect the war graves aspect of the wrecks - these are final resting places for many sailors, so maintain appropriate reverence and follow no-take policies

Explore Activities in Iron Bottom Sound