Things to Do in Honiara

About Honiara

Dozens of World War II wrecks sit on the seafloor beneath Honiara, visible from the surface on clear days. The Solomon Islands capital sprawls along Iron Bottom Sound, volcanic peaks behind it and coral reefs edging the shore. No grand monuments here. No luxury resorts either. The city smells like frangipani and ocean salt. Markets sell tropical fruit and handwoven crafts, crowded most mornings with locals speaking melodic pidgin. Traditional stilted houses stand next to concrete buildings—the old and new sit side by side without much fuss. Honiara works through authentic encounters, not manufactured attractions. Strangers share kava and stories. Time moves slower here, following Pacific rhythms instead of mainland urgency. Modern Solomon Islanders honor their customs quietly, keeping Melanesian traditions alive through daily practice rather than performance. The water glows an impossible blue. The wartime history is everywhere if you look—rusted metal, overgrown bunkers, memorial plaques. But daily life dominates: people working, talking, moving through routines shaped by island geography and centuries of culture.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Taxis are the primary transport option with no meters—negotiate fares beforehand (expect SI$50-100 for city trips). Rental cars require advance booking and international licenses. Local buses run irregularly but cost only SI$5-10 per journey.

Money: Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD) is the only accepted currency. ATMs are scarce—bring Australian dollars or USD to exchange at banks. Credit cards work only at major hotels and some restaurants. Always carry cash.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes before entering homes and churches. Avoid pointing with your finger—use an open palm instead. Ask permission before photographing people. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting villages or religious sites.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled or boiled water. Local markets offer fresh tropical fruits—choose items you can peel yourself. Seafood is generally safe at established restaurants. Try traditional dishes like kokoda (raw fish in coconut) at reputable venues only.

When to Visit

Honiara enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season (April-October) offers the most comfortable conditions with temperatures averaging 24-28°C, minimal rainfall (50-100mm monthly), and gentle trade winds. This peak period sees accommodation prices increase 25-40%, requiring advance bookings. The wet season (November-March) brings higher temperatures (26-32°C), substantial rainfall (200-400mm monthly), and humidity levels reaching 85%. However, this off-peak period offers 20-30% savings on hotels and fewer crowds. Cyclone season (December-April) presents some risk, though direct hits are rare. Festival ensoiasts should visit during Independence Day celebrations (July 7) featuring traditional dancing and cultural displays, or the Solomon Islands Festival of Arts (every four years in July). Diving ensoiasts find excellent visibility year-round, though April-June offers optimal conditions. Budget travelers benefit most from May-June and September-October when weather remains favorable while prices drop. Families with children should avoid January-March due to intense heat and rainfall. Business travelers find the best conditions during the shoulder months of April-May and September-October when weather is pleasant and local activities resume normal schedules after the wet season.