Things to Do in Solomon Islands in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Solomon Islands

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Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect diving visibility - May marks the end of southeast trades, creating crystal-clear water with 30-40m (98-131 ft) visibility around major dive sites like Mbike Island and Russell Islands
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs drop 25-30% compared to July-August peak, with guesthouses averaging SI$200-350 per night instead of SI$400-500
Minimal rainfall disruption - while 10 rainy days sounds high, most showers are brief 20-30 minute afternoon downpours that actually provide welcome relief from humidity
Prime birdwatching season - migratory species overlap with residents in May, creating exceptional birding opportunities in Kolombangara and Tetepare with over 180 species active

Considerations

Unpredictable ferry schedules - May weather transitions can cause 2-3 hour delays or occasional cancellations on inter-island routes, particularly to outer provinces
High humidity fatigue - 70% humidity combined with 30°C (86°F) temperatures makes midday activities exhausting; even locals retreat indoors 11am-3pm
Limited cultural festivals - May falls between major traditional celebrations, offering fewer opportunities to experience kastom ceremonies and traditional events

Best Activities in May

Russell Islands Diving Expeditions

May offers the year's best diving conditions with calm seas and exceptional visibility reaching 35m (115 ft). Water temperature holds steady at 27°C (81°F), perfect for exploring WWII wrecks and pristine coral gardens. The lack of strong currents makes this ideal for both beginners and advanced divers seeking macro photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead through PADI-certified operators. Multi-day packages typically cost SI$800-1,200 including accommodation and meals. Look for operators with recent safety certifications and modern equipment. See current diving tour options in the booking section below.

Kolombangara Rainforest Trekking

Cooler May mornings (24°C/75°F at dawn) create perfect conditions for ascending Kolombangara's volcanic slopes. The 1,770m (5,807 ft) peak offers stunning views, and May's moderate rainfall keeps trails manageable while maintaining lush vegetation. Endemic species are most active during this transitional season.

Booking Tip: Full-day treks range SI$300-500 per person including local guides and lunch. Book through village-based eco-tourism groups for authentic experiences. Allow 8-10 hours for complete ascent. Current trekking options available in booking widget below.

Traditional Village Cultural Immersion

May's comfortable evening temperatures make village stays particularly enjoyable. This is harvest season for certain root vegetables, offering opportunities to participate in traditional food preparation and learn about subsistence practices that haven't changed for generations.

Booking Tip: Homestays cost SI$150-250 per person per night including meals. Arrange through Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau approved operators at least 10 days ahead. Bring small gifts like school supplies or basic medicines. Check current village tour offerings below.

Bonegi Beach WWII Historical Diving

May's calm conditions provide easy access to Guadalcanal's famous WWII shipwrecks just 5-15m (16-49 ft) underwater. The Japanese transport vessels are completely accessible to snorkelers, and reduced tourist numbers mean you'll often have these historical sites entirely to yourself.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost SI$200-350 including snorkel gear and historical briefing. Independent snorkelers can access directly from shore. Certified dive operators offer deeper wreck exploration for SI$150-200 per dive. See current historical diving tours in booking section.

Rennell Island World Heritage Exploration

May's reduced rainfall makes the challenging journey to Lake Tegano more feasible. This UNESCO site features the world's largest raised coral atoll lake, 15km (9.3 miles) long, with unique endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The cooler weather makes the required hiking more comfortable.

Booking Tip: Multi-day packages cost SI$1,500-2,200 per person including flights from Honiara, accommodation, and guided tours. Book minimum 3 weeks ahead due to limited weekly flights. Tours typically require 4-5 days minimum. Current Rennell packages available below.

Marovo Lagoon Traditional Fishing Experiences

May's stable weather conditions are perfect for exploring the world's largest saltwater lagoon by traditional canoe. Local fishing techniques using centuries-old methods are best observed during this season when fish populations are predictably located near specific reef systems.

Booking Tip: Full-day fishing experiences range SI$250-400 per person with local guides. Multi-day lagoon exploration packages cost SI$600-900 including meals and island camping. Book through Western Province tourism operators. Current lagoon tours listed in booking widget.

May Events & Festivals

Early May

Guadalcanal Provincial Day Celebrations

Commemorating provincial autonomy with traditional dances, string band competitions, and cultural displays at Honiara's main venues. Features authentic kastom performances rarely seen by tourists and local food festivals showcasing traditional Solomon Islands cuisine.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking pants - essential for village visits and rainforest treks, as traditional clothing expectations require covered legs in many communities

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 8, and many accommodations are near protected marine areas where chemical sunscreens are prohibited

Waterproof phone case - afternoon showers and high humidity (70%) can damage electronics; essential for boat trips and diving photography

Lightweight rain jacket (not poncho) - afternoon downpours are brief but intense, and you'll want mobility for activities during weather breaks

Closed-toe water shoes - many beaches have sharp coral fragments, and village areas often have rough surfaces unsuitable for sandals

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquitoes are most active during May's evening temperature drops from 30°C to 24°C (86°F to 75°F)

Merino wool base layers - regulate temperature during humid days and cool early mornings, essential for highland trekking starting at dawn

Portable battery bank (solar preferred) - remote island accommodations often have limited charging options and intermittent power supplies

Cash in small Solomon Islands dollar denominations - many outer island experiences are cash-only, and breaking large bills can be challenging

Basic first aid supplies including antiseptic - medical facilities are limited on outer islands, and coral cuts are common during water activities

Insider Knowledge

Book inter-island flights immediately upon arrival - Solomon Airlines often releases additional seats 24-48 hours before departure, but May weather can cause sudden cancellations requiring flexible backup plans

Time outdoor activities for 6am-10am window - locals avoid midday sun during May's high UV period, and this schedule aligns perfectly with traditional village rhythms and wildlife activity patterns

Carry backup payment methods - ATMs frequently run empty on outer islands during May as tourist numbers begin increasing, and credit card acceptance remains extremely limited outside Honiara

Learn basic Pijin greetings before village visits - 'Gud morning' and 'Tanggio tumas' (thank you very much) open doors that remain closed to tourists who don't attempt local communication, especially during cultural activities