Tulagi, Solomon Islands - Things to Do in Tulagi

Things to Do in Tulagi

Tulagi, Solomon Islands - Complete Travel Guide

Tulagi sits on a small island in the Central Province of the Solomon Islands, carrying an outsized historical significance for its modest size. This former colonial capital played a pivotal role during World War II, serving as a strategic base before being largely destroyed in the conflict. Today, Tulagi retains a quiet, almost sleepy character that belies its dramatic past - you'll find remnants of wartime infrastructure scattered around the island alongside a small but resilient community. The island offers an intimate glimpse into Solomon Islands life, with its compact size making it easy to explore on foot. While it lacks the pristine beaches of some neighboring islands, Tulagi compensates with its rich history, friendly locals, and authentic Pacific Island atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to the Florida Islands group, and many travelers find themselves charmed by its unhurried pace and the genuine warmth of its residents.

Top Things to Do in Tulagi

World War II Historical Sites

Scattered across the island are fascinating remnants from WWII, including old bunkers, gun emplacements, and the remains of military installations. The most significant sites include Japanese and Allied positions that tell the story of the fierce battles fought here. Local guides can provide invaluable context about the strategic importance of these locations and share stories passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Arrange a local guide through your accommodation or the local tourism office for around $30-50 per day. The best time is early morning when it's cooler, and guides are most readily available. Look for guides who have family connections to the war period for the most authentic stories.

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Tulagi offer excellent underwater experiences, with coral reefs that recovered remarkably well from wartime damage. You'll encounter a variety of tropical fish species and interesting coral formations. Several dive sites feature wartime wrecks that have become artificial reefs, creating unique underwater landscapes.

Booking Tip: Book with local dive operators in Honiara before arriving, as Tulagi has limited facilities. Expect to pay $80-120 for a two-tank dive including equipment. The dry season (May-October) offers the best visibility, typically 20-30 meters.

Island Walking Tour

Tulagi's compact size makes it perfect for walking tours that combine natural beauty with historical significance. You'll pass through local villages, see traditional architecture alongside colonial remnants, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Florida Islands. The island's highest points offer excellent vantage points for photography and understanding the strategic layout.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are possible, but hiring a local guide for $20-30 enhances the experience significantly. Early morning or late afternoon walks are most comfortable. Bring water and sun protection, as shade can be limited on some routes.

Traditional Fishing Experience

Join local fishermen for an authentic glimpse into traditional Solomon Islands fishing methods. You'll learn about sustainable fishing practices that have been used for generations, try your hand at different techniques, and likely enjoy your catch prepared in traditional style. This activity provides genuine cultural exchange and supports local livelihoods.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local contacts or your accommodation, typically costing $40-60 per person including the meal. Early morning departures (around 5-6 AM) are most productive. Choose operators who emphasize traditional methods rather than just tourist experiences.

Island Hopping to Florida Islands

Use Tulagi as your base to explore the surrounding Florida Islands, each with its own character and attractions. Some islands offer pristine beaches, others have interesting cultural sites or excellent snorkeling spots. The short boat rides between islands provide scenic views and opportunities to spot marine life.

Booking Tip: Organize day trips through local boat operators for $60-100 per person depending on the number of islands visited. Check weather conditions carefully, as rough seas can make trips uncomfortable or dangerous. Groups of 4-6 people often get better rates.

Getting There

Reaching Tulagi requires flying into Honiara's Henderson Field first, then taking a combination of road and water transport. From Honiara, you'll need to drive or take a bus to the Lungga area (about 30 minutes), then catch a boat across to Tulagi - the boat ride takes roughly 20-30 minutes depending on conditions. Some operators offer direct transfers from Honiara that include both the road and water portions, which is often more convenient than arranging each segment separately.

Getting Around

Tulagi is small enough that walking is the primary mode of transportation for most visitors. The entire island can be crossed on foot in about 30 minutes, making it easy to explore at a leisurely pace. For longer excursions or to reach more remote parts of the island, local boats or the occasional vehicle can be arranged through your accommodation. Most locals are happy to provide directions, and the informal network of paths and roads is generally easy to navigate.

Where to Stay

Tulagi town center
Waterfront area near the wharf
Residential areas with local families
Guesthouse accommodations
Camping areas with permissions
Day trip base from Honiara

Food & Dining

Dining options in Tulagi are limited but authentic, focusing on fresh seafood and local produce. You'll find a few small restaurants and cafes serving traditional Solomon Islands dishes alongside some international options. The local market offers fresh fish, tropical fruits, and vegetables, and many accommodations can arrange meals featuring locally caught fish prepared in traditional styles. Don't miss trying the local root vegetables and tropical fruits that are often incorporated into meals, and be prepared for a more limited selection than you might find in larger centers.

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 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)

When to Visit

The dry season from May to October offers the most comfortable weather for exploring Tulagi, with less humidity and minimal rainfall. During these months, you'll have better conditions for walking tours, water activities, and photography. The wet season (November to April) brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers, though temperatures remain fairly consistent year-round. That said, the wet season can be beautiful in its own way, with lush vegetation and fewer tourists, though some activities may be weather-dependent.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Solomon Islands dollars as there are no ATMs on the island and card acceptance is extremely limited
Pack insect repellent and basic medical supplies as medical facilities are minimal and mosquitoes can be persistent
Learn a few basic phrases in Pijin (Solomon Islands Pidgin) as it's widely spoken and locals appreciate the effort

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