The Solomon Islands are a great choice for travelers looking for tropical scenery, island culture, clear lagoons, and outdoor activities away from crowded destinations.

With hundreds of islands spread across the South Pacific, there is plenty to explore, but trying to visit too many places on one trip can make the journey complicated.

How to Get There

Most international travelers begin their Solomon Islands trip in Honiara, the country's main entry point. Flights connect Honiara with regional cities such as Brisbane, Nadi, Port Vila, and Port Moresby. From Brisbane, promotional one-way fares to Honiara have been listed from around US$290, although regular fares can be higher depending on the travel date.

To reach Gizo, travelers can take a domestic flight from Honiara to Gizo Airport. Published fares start at around US$275 one way. After landing, local boat transfers can take visitors to nearby islands and resorts, with prices depending on the destination and operator.

Begin Your Trip in Honiara

Honiara, on Guadalcanal Island, is the main gateway for international visitors and a practical place to begin exploring the Solomon Islands. Spending a day or two here gives travelers time to adjust before continuing to other islands.

The city offers several places worth visiting, including the Honiara Central Market, where visitors can see local produce, crafts, and everyday life. The National Museum and Cultural Centre is another useful stop for travelers interested in learning more about Solomon Islands traditions and heritage.

Honiara can also serve as a base for short excursions around Guadalcanal. Travelers can arrange transportation and day trips through local operators or their accommodation. Keeping the first part of the itinerary flexible is useful because onward island travel requires additional planning.

Discover Gizo and Its Islands

Gizo, in Western Province, is one of the best destinations for travelers who want to spend plenty of time on the water. The town provides access to nearby islands and marine areas where visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, swimming, kayaking, and boat excursions.

One nearby destination is Njari Island, which sits within Gizo Lagoon. The surrounding waters are known for marine biodiversity and are particularly appealing to visitors interested in snorkeling and diving. Gizo is also one of the country's established diving areas, along with Marovo, Munda, Central Islands, and Honiara.

Accommodation costs depend heavily on the property. Current is around US$81 per night, while some established properties are considerably more expensive. Gizo Hotel, for example, has a listed standard-room range of approximately US$70–US$85 per night, although travelers should confirm the rate for their dates before booking.

Experience Marovo Lagoon

For a quieter experience surrounded by nature, Marovo Lagoon is one of the Solomon Islands' standout destinations. Located in Western Province, the lagoon is known for its extensive island and reef environment and offers a range of activities for visitors.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are major attractions, while kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide alternatives for travelers who prefer staying closer to the surface. Visitors can also arrange island excursions and local experiences.

Getting to Marovo Lagoon requires more coordination than staying in Honiara or Gizo. Seghe is an important access point, and transport connections can be limited. Tourism planning documents also identify sea transport between major Western Province tourism hubs as an area requiring further development, so travelers should arrange transfers before arriving.

Choosing two or three destinations instead of trying to see everything can create a more comfortable journey. With transportation, accommodation, and activities arranged in advance, travelers can spend less time coordinating connections and more time enjoying the islands.