Things to Do in Tulagi, Solomon Islands

Tulagi is a small but historically significant island in the Solomon Islands, serving as the former colonial capital and a crucial World War II battleground. Located in the Florida Islands group, this compact island offers visitors a unique blend of wartime history, traditional Melanesian culture, and pristine tropical waters. Despite its small size of just 5.5 square kilometers, Tulagi played an outsized role in Pacific history and remains an important administrative center today. The island's strategic position in Iron Bottom Sound made it a coveted prize during WWII, changing hands between Japanese and Allied forces multiple times. Today, visitors can explore remnants of this turbulent past while enjoying excellent diving, snorkeling, and fishing opportunities. The local community maintains strong cultural traditions, and the island serves as an ideal base for exploring the broader Central Province of the Solomon Islands.

Top Things to Do in Tulagi

World War II Historical Sites Tour

Explore the extensive WWII relics scattered across Tulagi, including Japanese bunkers, Allied gun emplacements, and the remains of military infrastructure. The island's compact size makes it perfect for walking tours that reveal its strategic importance during the Pacific campaign. Local guides provide fascinating insights into the battles that shaped the Pacific theater.

Booking Tip: Arrange tours through local guesthouses for $30-50 USD per person. Best visited in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Look for guides with family connections to wartime events for the most authentic stories.

Iron Bottom Sound Diving

Dive into one of the world's most famous underwater graveyards, where dozens of WWII ships and aircraft rest on the ocean floor. The clear waters and relatively shallow depths make many wrecks accessible to intermediate divers. This underwater museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into naval warfare history.

Booking Tip: Book with certified dive operators in Honiara or Tulagi for $80-120 USD per dive. Best visibility is during dry season (May-October). Ensure operators have proper safety equipment and wreck diving experience.

Traditional Village Cultural Experience

Visit nearby traditional villages to experience authentic Melanesian culture, including traditional crafts, storytelling, and local customs. Participate in kastom ceremonies and learn about the island's pre-colonial history and ongoing cultural practices. Many villages welcome visitors with traditional dances and demonstrations of traditional skills.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local contacts or guesthouses for $20-40 USD per person including meals. Always bring small gifts like kava or store-bought goods. Best to visit during weekends when more community members are available.

Snorkeling and Reef Exploration

Discover pristine coral reefs surrounding Tulagi with exceptional marine biodiversity. The protected waters harbor colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations largely untouched by mass tourism. Multiple sites offer varying depths and conditions suitable for all skill levels.

Booking Tip: Rent equipment locally for $15-25 USD per day or join guided trips for $40-60 USD. Best conditions are during calm weather periods. Look for operators who know current conditions and marine life seasonal patterns.

Sport Fishing Charters

Experience world-class fishing in the rich waters surrounding Tulagi, targeting species like tuna, marlin, wahoo, and giant trevally. The deep channels and reef systems create ideal conditions for both deep-sea and reef fishing. Local operators combine traditional knowledge with modern techniques for exceptional results.

Booking Tip: Full-day charters cost $300-600 USD for small groups. Book during dry season for best weather conditions. Choose operators with well-maintained boats and proper safety equipment, and confirm what's included in the price.

Getting There

Tulagi is accessible primarily through Honiara, the Solomon Islands capital, which has the country's main international airport. From Honiara, take a domestic flight to nearby airstrips or arrange boat transport across Iron Bottom Sound, which takes 1-2 hours depending on vessel type. Several local operators run regular boat services, though schedules can be weather-dependent. Some visitors also arrive via chartered boats or as part of Pacific cruise itineraries. It's essential to confirm transportation arrangements in advance, as services can be irregular and weather-dependent.

Getting Around

Tulagi's small size makes it easily walkable, with most points of interest accessible on foot within 30 minutes. Local boats provide transport to nearby islands and dive sites, typically arranged through accommodations or tour operators. A few vehicles operate on the island for longer distances or heavy luggage transport. Many visitors rent small boats or join organized tours to explore surrounding islands and reefs. Walking remains the primary mode of transport, and the island's compact nature makes this both practical and enjoyable for most visitors.

Where to Stay

Tulagi town center

Waterfront area near the wharf

Residential areas with local families

Nearby Gavutu Island

Florida Islands mainland

Honiara with day trips

Food & Dining

Dining options on Tulagi are limited but authentic, focusing on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Solomon Islands cuisine. Local guesthouses typically provide meals featuring fish, root vegetables, and rice, often prepared in traditional earth ovens. Small local stores sell basic supplies, while some residents offer home-cooked meals by arrangement. Fresh fish is abundant and expertly prepared, often grilled or cooked in coconut milk. Visitors should be prepared for simple but flavorful meals that reflect the island's maritime culture and tropical abundance.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Tulagi is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal and sea conditions are calmest for diving and boating activities. Temperatures remain consistently warm year-round (26-30°C), but humidity is lower during these months. The wet season (November-April) brings heavy rains and rougher seas, though this period offers lush vegetation and fewer visitors. Diving visibility is generally best during dry months, while cultural festivals and traditional events occur throughout the year, making any time potentially rewarding for cultural experiences.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Solomon Islands dollars as there are no ATMs or card facilities on the island

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are not available locally

Learn basic phrases in Solomon Islands Pijin to enhance interactions with locals who appreciate the effort

Things to Do in Tulagi