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A Week in Paradise: Exploring the Solomon Islands

From WWII History to Pristine Coral Reefs

Trip Overview

This week-long journey through the Solomon Islands combines rich World War II history with breathtaking natural beauty. Starting in Honiara on Guadalcanal, you'll explore significant war memorials and museums before venturing to remote islands for world-class diving, traditional village experiences, and untouched beaches. The pace balances cultural immersion with adventure activities, allowing time to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, meet local communities, and understand the pivotal role these islands played in Pacific history. Expect basic but comfortable infrastructure, warm Melanesian hospitality, and landscapes that range from jungle-clad mountains to turquoise lagoons. This itinerary suits adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
April to November (dry season)
Ideal For
Adventure seekers, History enthusiasts, Divers and snorkelers, Cultural explorers, Off-the-beaten-path travelers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Honiara Introduction

Honiara, Guadalcanal
Arrive in Honiara and acclimate to island life with an introduction to the capital's central market and waterfront before visiting the national museum.
Morning
Arrival and Central Market exploration
After arriving at Henderson International Airport, transfer to your accommodation and freshen up. Head to Honiara's bustling Central Market to experience local life, browse fresh tropical produce, handicrafts, and traditional shell money. The market offers an authentic introduction to Solomon Islands culture with vendors selling betel nut, fresh fish, and locally woven baskets.
2-3 hours $10-20
Lunch
A waterfront cafe near the market serving fresh seafood
Local seafood and Pacific fusion Mid-range
Afternoon
Solomon Islands National Museum
Visit the Solomon Islands National Museum to understand the archipelago's rich cultural heritage and history. The museum houses traditional artifacts, ceremonial objects, shell money displays, and exhibits on customary practices from across the islands. Learn about traditional navigation, warfare, and the diverse cultures of the nine provinces before tomorrow's WWII history immersion.
1.5-2 hours $5-10
Evening
Sunset walk along Mendana Avenue
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant along the waterfront, sampling traditional dishes like cassava, sweet potato, and fresh tuna

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Honiara (Mid-range hotel near the waterfront)

Central location provides easy access to restaurants, markets, and tomorrow's historical sites

Exchange currency at the airport or major banks as ATMs can be unreliable and credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels
Day 1 Budget: $120-150
2

Guadalcanal's WWII Legacy

Guadalcanal
Dedicate today to understanding the Solomon Islands' pivotal role in World War II through memorials, museums, and battlefield sites.
Morning
Guadalcanal Memorial and surroundings
Begin at the Guadalcanal Memorial, a moving tribute to the thousands who died during the Guadalcanal Campaign. The memorial overlooks Savo Sound, known as Ironbottom Sound due to the numerous ships sunk during naval battles. Reflect on the significance of these battles that turned the tide of the Pacific War while enjoying views across the water where history unfolded.
1-2 hours $5
Hire a local guide who can provide detailed historical context and personal stories
Lunch
A local eatery in town serving traditional island dishes
Solomon Islands traditional Budget
Afternoon
Vilu Military Museum
Visit the Vilu Military Museum, located west of Honiara, featuring an impressive outdoor collection of WWII relics including Japanese artillery, aircraft remains, and military equipment scattered through coastal vegetation. Walk among rusting tanks, fighter planes, and naval guns while learning about the fierce battles fought here. The beachside setting adds poignancy to these remnants of war.
2-3 hours $10-15
Combine with a visit to nearby war relics along the coast for a comprehensive experience
Evening
Cultural dinner experience
Attend a traditional string band performance if available, or dine at a restaurant featuring local musicians

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Honiara (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Convenient base for exploring Guadalcanal's sites without changing hotels

Bring insect repellent when visiting outdoor museum sites, and wear covered shoes as terrain can be uneven
Day 2 Budget: $100-130
3

Wreck Discovery & Coastal Exploration

Guadalcanal Coast
Explore the famous MS World Discoverer shipwreck and enjoy coastal scenery along Guadalcanal's northern shores.
Morning
MS World Discoverer
Journey to see the MS World Discoverer, a cruise ship that struck a reef in 2000 and was beached near Roderick Bay. This iconic rusting vessel, tilted and slowly deteriorating in shallow waters, has become one of the Solomon Islands' most photographed sites. View the wreck from the shore and learn about the dramatic rescue operation that saved all passengers and crew.
2-3 hours including travel $30-50
Arrange transportation through your hotel as public transport is limited to this area
Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a coastal spot near the wreck
Packed lunch Budget
Afternoon
Beach time and snorkeling
Spend the afternoon at a nearby beach exploring coral reefs close to shore. The waters around Guadalcanal offer excellent snorkeling opportunities with colorful fish, sea turtles, and pristine coral formations. Relax on uncrowded beaches surrounded by tropical vegetation and enjoy the tranquil Pacific waters. This is your chance to experience the natural beauty that contrasts with yesterday's wartime history.
3-4 hours $10-20
Evening
Casual dinner in Honiara
Return to Honiara for dinner at a restaurant specializing in fresh catch of the day

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Honiara (Same accommodation)

Final night in Honiara before island hopping begins

Bring your own snorkeling gear as rental equipment can be limited; the investment is worthwhile for the week ahead
Day 3 Budget: $110-140
4

Journey to the Western Province

Gizo, Western Province
Fly to Gizo in the Western Province, the gateway to some of the world's best diving sites and pristine island experiences.
Morning
Flight to Gizo
Take a scenic domestic flight from Honiara to Gizo, flying over emerald islands scattered across turquoise seas. Upon arrival in this laid-back provincial capital built on stilts over the water, settle into your accommodation and explore the small town. Visit the local market, walk along the waterfront, and watch traditional canoes and modern boats navigate the harbor.
3-4 hours including flight $150-200
Book domestic flights well in advance as they fill quickly and schedules can change
Lunch
A waterfront restaurant in Gizo serving grilled fish
Fresh seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Orientation dive or snorkel
Join an afternoon orientation dive or snorkel trip to nearby reefs. The waters around Gizo are renowned for exceptional visibility, abundant marine life, and numerous WWII wrecks. Even shallow snorkeling reveals impressive coral gardens, tropical fish, and possibly dolphins. This introductory session prepares you for tomorrow's full-day diving adventure while showcasing why divers travel globally to experience these waters.
2-3 hours $40-80
Book diving activities upon arrival or through your accommodation
Evening
Sunset viewing and dinner
Watch the spectacular sunset over the islands from a waterfront spot, then enjoy dinner featuring local lobster or crab

Where to Stay Tonight

Gizo waterfront (Dive resort or guesthouse)

Proximity to dive operators and easy access to boat departures for island excursions

Gizo has limited ATM facilities, so bring sufficient cash from Honiara for your stay in the Western Province
Day 4 Budget: $200-250
5

World-Class Diving & Island Hopping

Western Province Islands
Experience the Solomon Islands' legendary diving with visits to WWII wrecks and pristine coral reefs around the Western Province.
Morning
Diving expedition to WWII wrecks
Embark on a full-day diving adventure exploring famous sites like the Toa Maru wreck or Hellcat fighter planes resting on the ocean floor. These remarkably preserved wrecks are encrusted with coral and teeming with marine life, creating artificial reefs that attract barracuda, tuna, and reef sharks. Even non-divers can snorkel above shallower wrecks, experiencing history beneath the waves.
3-4 hours $100-150
Multi-dive packages offer better value; confirm your diving certification level when booking
Lunch
Packed lunch provided by dive operator, enjoyed on a remote island beach
Picnic lunch Budget
Afternoon
Remote island exploration and swimming
Visit uninhabited islands with powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons. Snorkel directly from the beach, discovering vibrant coral gardens just meters from shore. Walk through coconut groves, collect shells, and experience the pristine beauty that makes the Solomon Islands a paradise for nature lovers. The isolation and untouched quality of these islands feels like discovering your own private paradise.
2-3 hours Included in dive package
Evening
Return to Gizo for dinner
Share stories with fellow travelers at a popular gathering spot, enjoying fresh sashimi and local beer

Where to Stay Tonight

Gizo waterfront (Same accommodation as Day 4)

Convenient for tomorrow's village visit departure

Bring an underwater camera to capture the incredible wreck diving experiences; visibility often exceeds 30 meters
Day 5 Budget: $150-200
6

Cultural Immersion & Traditional Villages

Western Province villages
Connect with local communities through village visits, learning about traditional customs, crafts, and daily life in the Solomon Islands.
Morning
Traditional village visit
Travel by boat to a traditional village where locals maintain customary ways of life. Participate in a welcome ceremony, learn about traditional fishing methods, and watch artisans create intricate shell jewelry and woven baskets. Villagers may demonstrate traditional cooking in earth ovens, explain the significance of shell money, and share stories passed down through generations. This authentic cultural exchange offers insights into Melanesian life.
3-4 hours $50-80
Arrange through your accommodation; bringing small gifts for the community is appreciated
Lunch
Traditional village feast with locally grown vegetables, fish, and coconut
Traditional Solomon Islands Budget
Afternoon
Handicraft shopping and lagoon swimming
Purchase authentic handicrafts directly from artisans, including woven baskets, shell jewelry, and traditional carvings. Proceeds directly support local families. Afterward, swim in protected lagoons where village children play, experiencing the warm hospitality Melanesian communities are known for. Learn a few words in Pijin, the local language, creating meaningful connections with your hosts.
2-3 hours $30-60
Evening
Final evening in Gizo
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant, reflecting on the week's adventures

Where to Stay Tonight

Gizo waterfront (Same accommodation)

Last night before returning to Honiara

Always ask permission before photographing people in villages; many appreciate a small donation for photos
Day 6 Budget: $130-180
7

Return & Departure

Honiara, Guadalcanal
Fly back to Honiara for final souvenir shopping and departure preparations, with time for last-minute exploration if your flight schedule allows.
Morning
Return flight to Honiara
Take a morning flight back to Honiara, enjoying final aerial views of the spectacular island chains. Upon arrival, check into day-use accommodation if needed or store luggage while exploring. Visit any sites missed earlier in the week or return to the Central Market for last-minute souvenir shopping, including shell money, woven goods, and local handicrafts to take home.
3-4 hours including flight $150-200
Coordinate flight times with international departure schedules
Lunch
A restaurant near the airport or in central Honiara
International or local Mid-range
Afternoon
Final exploration or relaxation
Depending on your departure time, visit any remaining sites of interest, purchase final souvenirs, or simply relax at a waterfront cafe reflecting on your week in paradise. If time permits, take a final walk along Mendana Avenue, perhaps visiting a local art gallery or craft shop. Ensure you allow sufficient time to reach the airport, accounting for Honiara's traffic patterns.
2-3 hours $20-40
Evening
International departure
Depart Henderson International Airport with memories of pristine reefs, WWII history, and warm Melanesian hospitality

Where to Stay Tonight

Not needed unless overnight (Day-use hotel room if needed)

Most international flights depart in the evening

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before international flights as check-in can be slow and security thorough
Day 7 Budget: $180-220

Practical Information

Getting Around

Domestic flights connect Honiara with Gizo and other islands; book through Solomon Airlines in advance. In Honiara, taxis are readily available but negotiate fares beforehand as meters are uncommon. Boat transfers are necessary for island hopping and village visits, typically arranged through accommodations or dive operators. Roads outside Honiara are limited and often unpaved. Walking is practical within town centers. For WWII sites outside Honiara, hire a driver for the day for convenience and local knowledge.

Book Ahead

Book domestic flights at least 2-3 weeks ahead, dive packages and accommodations in Gizo during peak season, and international flights well in advance as options are limited

Packing Essentials

Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, snorkeling gear, water shoes, lightweight rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, cash in small denominations, underwater camera, prescription medications, and modest clothing for village visits

Total Budget

$1,000-1,350 for 7 days (excluding international flights)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in guesthouses or homestays instead of resorts, eat primarily at local markets and small eateries, limit diving to snorkeling with your own gear, use shared boat transfers when possible, and focus activities on free or low-cost cultural sites and beaches. Skip Gizo and explore Guadalcanal more extensively using public transport. Budget: $70-100 per day.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at premium dive resorts with overwater bungalows, book private boat charters for diving and island hopping, arrange helicopter transfers between islands, hire private guides for historical tours, enjoy spa treatments and fine dining, and extend your stay to include remote atolls like the Marovo Lagoon with exclusive eco-lodges. Budget: $400-600 per day.

Family-Friendly

Focus more on snorkeling than diving, choose family-friendly resorts with shallow swimming areas, include more beach time and less historical content for younger children, arrange village visits where kids can interact with local children, book accommodations with family rooms and meal options for picky eaters, and consider shorter boat trips to prevent seasickness. Add educational activities at the National Museum.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Solomon Islands

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Solomon Islands

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Solomon Islands

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Solomon Islands

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Solomon Islands

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