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Western Province, Solomon Islands - Things to Do in Western Province

Things to Do in Western Province

Western Province, Solomon Islands - Complete Travel Guide

Western Province is the largest and most culturally diverse province in the Solomon Islands, encompassing numerous islands including New Georgia, Rendova, and Vangunu. The provincial capital of Gizo serves as the gateway to this pristine region, known for its world-class diving sites, WWII historical significance, and vibrant local cultures. The province offers an authentic Melanesian experience with traditional villages, ancient customs, and some of the most untouched marine environments in the Pacific. This remote paradise is famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs teeming with marine life, and numerous WWII relics both above and below water. The region's lagoons and waterways provide excellent opportunities for island hopping, while the dense tropical forests harbor unique wildlife and offer glimpses into traditional Solomon Islander life. Western Province remains largely undeveloped for tourism, making it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and pristine natural environments.

Top Things to Do in Western Province

World War II Wreck Diving

Explore some of the Pacific's most famous WWII underwater wrecks, including Japanese fighter planes, ships, and submarines in the waters around Gizo and New Georgia. The clear tropical waters offer excellent visibility for discovering these historical artifacts that have become artificial reefs teeming with marine life.

Booking Tip: Book with established dive operators in Gizo charging $80-120 per two-tank dive. Best visibility is during dry season (May-October). Look for PADI-certified operators with good safety records and local knowledge of wreck sites.

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

Visit authentic Melanesian villages to experience traditional Solomon Islander culture, including custom dancing, traditional crafts, and ancient storytelling. Many villages maintain traditional lifestyles and welcome respectful visitors to learn about their customs, traditional fishing methods, and local legends.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local guides or guesthouses for $30-50 per person. Always bring small gifts like rice or tinned fish as customary offerings. Best to visit during weekends when more villagers are present and cultural activities are more likely.

Kennedy Island Historical Tour

Visit the small island where future U.S. President John F. Kennedy was stranded after his PT-109 boat was sunk by a Japanese destroyer in 1943. The island offers a fascinating glimpse into WWII Pacific theater history and provides excellent snorkeling opportunities in the surrounding clear waters.

Booking Tip: Organize boat trips through Gizo operators for $60-100 per person including transport and snorkeling gear. Combine with other island visits for better value. Best visited during calm weather conditions from April to November.

Marovo Lagoon Exploration

Discover one of the world's largest saltwater lagoons, a UNESCO World Heritage site candidate featuring pristine coral reefs, traditional fishing villages, and incredible biodiversity. The lagoon offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and experiencing untouched Pacific island environments.

Booking Tip: Multi-day tours cost $150-250 per person per day including meals and accommodation in village guesthouses. Book through Gizo operators or directly with Marovo communities. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and respect local customs regarding sacred sites.

Sport Fishing and Island Hopping

Experience world-class sport fishing in the rich waters around Western Province, targeting species like Spanish mackerel, tuna, and giant trevally. Combine fishing with visits to remote islands, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkeling spots throughout the region's numerous atolls and lagoons.

Booking Tip: Charter fishing boats cost $200-400 per day for up to 6 people. Book with experienced local operators who know the best fishing grounds. Bring sun protection and confirm if fishing equipment and licenses are included in the price.

Getting There

Western Province is accessible primarily through Gizo Airport (GZO), which receives regular flights from Honiara on Solomon Airlines, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and costing around $200-300 one way. Alternatively, cargo ships and passenger boats operate between Honiara and Gizo several times per week, offering a more adventurous but time-consuming option taking 8-12 hours. Some visitors also arrive via chartered boats from other Pacific destinations, though this requires advance planning and is considerably more expensive.

Getting Around

Transportation within Western Province relies heavily on boats and small aircraft for inter-island travel. Local operators in Gizo provide boat transfers to nearby islands and attractions, with prices varying from $20-100 depending on distance and group size. Small outboard motor boats are the most common form of transport between islands, while some larger islands have basic road networks accessible by truck or motorcycle taxi. Walking is common within villages and towns, and many accommodations can arrange transportation for guests.

Where to Stay

Gizo Town Center
Gizo Waterfront
Kennedy Island Area
Marovo Lagoon Villages
New Georgia Island
Remote Island Resorts

Food & Dining

Dining options in Western Province are limited but authentic, focusing on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Solomon Islander cuisine. Gizo offers several small restaurants and cafes serving local dishes like fish curry, taro, sweet potato, and fresh coconut crab when in season. Most accommodations provide meals as part of their packages, often featuring locally caught fish prepared in traditional styles. Village stays typically include home-cooked meals prepared by host families, offering the most authentic culinary experience with ingredients sourced directly from gardens and the sea.

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 Western Province is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal, seas are calmer, and visibility for diving and snorkeling is at its peak. Temperatures remain consistently warm year-round (26-30°C), but the wet season from November to April brings heavy rainfall, rougher seas, and higher humidity. The dry season also coincides with better flight reliability and easier inter-island transportation, making it the optimal time for exploring multiple islands and engaging in water activities.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Solomon Island dollars as ATMs are extremely limited and credit cards are rarely accepted outside of Gizo town
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, as these items are expensive and difficult to find locally
Learn basic Pijin phrases and always ask permission before photographing people or entering villages, as respect for local customs is essential

Explore Activities in Western Province