Things to Do in Solomon Islands in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Solomon Islands
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Lush green landscapes at their most vibrant - waterfalls are at full power and jungle canopies are dense after months of rain
- Fewer tourists mean pristine dive sites and snorkeling spots without crowds, plus significantly lower accommodation rates
- Traditional weather ceremonies and kastom festivals occur during this season as communities prepare for the drier months ahead
- Best time for birdwatching with migratory species present and native birds most active during cooler morning hours
Considerations
- Heavy rainfall averaging 18 days per month can disrupt inter-island flights and boat schedules, sometimes stranding travelers for days
- High humidity makes outdoor activities exhausting - you'll be drenched in sweat within minutes of leaving air conditioning
- Many remote dive sites and outer islands become inaccessible due to rough seas and safety concerns from operators
Best Activities in November
Honiara Cultural and Historical Tours
November's frequent rain makes indoor cultural sites ideal. The National Museum, Central Market, and WWII historical sites around Honiara are perfect during wet weather. Temperatures are cooler in the mornings (24-26°C/75-79°F) making walking tours comfortable before afternoon storms hit around 2-3pm.
Guadalcanal Waterfall Expeditions
November's heavy rainfall creates spectacular waterfall displays across Guadalcanal. Mataniko Falls and Tenaru Falls are at their most impressive, though trails can be muddy and slippery. The cooler morning temperatures and lush vegetation make this ideal timing despite wet conditions.
Traditional Village Stays
November coincides with traditional preparations for Christmas celebrations in many villages. You'll witness authentic cultural practices, traditional cooking methods during the rainy season, and participate in community activities. Indoor cultural exchanges are perfect during frequent afternoon downpours.
Protected Marine Sanctuary Snorkeling
While outer reefs may be rough, protected lagoons and marine sanctuaries offer excellent visibility during brief weather breaks. November's plankton blooms attract marine life, making encounters with dolphins and reef sharks more frequent in calmer inner waters.
Indoor Market and Craft Experiences
Central Market in Honiara and local craft centers are bustling during November as vendors prepare Christmas stock. Perfect activity during the frequent rain, with opportunities to learn traditional weaving, wood carving, and purchase authentic local products at pre-tourist season prices.
November Events & Festivals
Provincial Government Day Preparations
Throughout November, various provinces celebrate their establishment with traditional performances, cultural displays, and community feasts. Each province celebrates on different dates, creating multiple opportunities to witness authentic local celebrations.
Traditional Weather Ceremonies
Many communities perform kastom ceremonies during the wet season to honor ancestral spirits and ensure good harvests. These authentic cultural experiences are rarely seen by tourists and offer deep insights into Solomon Islands spirituality.