Honiara in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Honiara

32°C (89°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

211 mm (8.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Lower accommodation prices during pre-Christmas shoulder season - rooms typically 20-30% cheaper than January peak
Calm seas and excellent underwater visibility at dive sites like Bonegi I and II wrecks - December offers the clearest water conditions
Perfect timing for traditional kastom ceremonies in surrounding villages - many communities hold year-end celebrations you can respectfully observe
Cooler morning temperatures (23°C/73°F) make early hiking to Mount Austen battlefields comfortable before 9am heat builds

Considerations

Afternoon downpours arrive suddenly between 2-4pm on 60% of days - indoor backup plans essential for outdoor activities
High humidity (70%) makes midday walking tours uncomfortable - you'll need frequent air-conditioned breaks
Some outer island boat services run reduced schedules due to December maintenance periods before peak season

Best Activities in December

WWII Historical Site Tours

December's cooler mornings (23°C/73°F) make exploring Mount Austen, Henderson Field, and Bloody Ridge battlefields comfortable before 10am. Rain rarely affects these elevated sites, and December's lower tourist numbers mean you'll have contemplative moments at memorials without crowds.

Booking Tip: Book guided historical tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators (typically SBD $200-350 per person for full-day tours including transport). Look for guides with archaeological training. See current tour options in booking section below.

Bonegi Beach Wreck Diving

December offers the year's clearest underwater visibility (25-30m/82-98ft) at the famous Japanese transport wrecks. Calm seas and minimal wind make this ideal for both beginners and advanced divers. Water temperature stays comfortable at 28°C (82°F).

Booking Tip: Book dive packages 10-14 days ahead (typically SBD $300-450 for two-tank dives with equipment). Ensure operators are PADI-certified with current safety equipment. Morning dives avoid afternoon weather.

Central Market Cultural Immersion

December brings special seasonal produce like rambutan and ngali nuts to Honiara's bustling this destination. Morning visits (6-9am) avoid both crowds and heat while experiencing authentic Solomon Islander commerce and trying traditional December foods.

Booking Tip: Join cultural walking tours (typically SBD $150-250 per person for 3-hour market and cultural tours). Local guides provide language help and cultural context. Best booked 3-5 days ahead.

Mataniko Falls Hiking

December's rainfall creates spectacular water flow at the falls, and morning temperatures make the 2km (1.2 mile) jungle trek pleasant. The cave systems behind the falls offer natural air conditioning during the day's heat. Lush vegetation is at its greenest.

Booking Tip: Guided hikes cost SBD $100-200 per person including transport. Book through operators with local village permissions and safety equipment. Start early (7am) to avoid afternoon rains and heat.

Traditional Village Visits

December features end-of-year kastom ceremonies in villages around Honiara. Many communities welcome respectful visitors to observe traditional dances, string band performances, and year-end celebrations. Cultural exchange opportunities are at their richest.

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through cultural tour operators (SBD $200-400 per person including meals and transport). Requires 7-10 days advance booking for proper community coordination and protocol arrangements.

Sunset Harbor Cruises

December's variable weather creates dramatic cloud formations for spectacular sunsets over Solomonislands. Calmer evening conditions and lower humidity make boat trips comfortable. You'll see flying foxes emerging from mangroves as darkness falls.

Booking Tip: Book sunset cruises 3-5 days ahead (typically SBD $180-300 per person for 2-hour trips). Choose operators with covered seating for weather protection. Includes light refreshments and historical commentary.

December Events & Festivals

Mid to Late December

Provincial Day Celebrations

Various provinces hold cultural celebrations throughout December featuring traditional dances, string band competitions, and kastom ceremonies. Each province showcases unique cultural traditions with authentic performances and local food specialties.

Late December

Christmas Carols by Candlelight

Multiple communities organize outdoor carol services combining Christian hymns with traditional Solomonislands harmonies. These events showcase the islands' renowned musical talents in beautiful natural settings.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes and arrive quickly

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflects strongly off water and coral sand

Moisture-wicking cotton or bamboo clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions

Waterproof phone case and camera protection for boat trips and sudden downpours

Insect repellent with 20% DEET minimum - mosquito activity increases during rainy season

Sturdy water shoes for coral beaches and rocky shorelines at dive sites

Small daypack with waterproof lining for hiking to falls and historical sites

Light long sleeves for cultural site visits and evening protection from mosquitoes

Cash in small bills (SBD $5, $10, $20) - many local operators and markets don't accept cards

Portable battery pack - humidity can drain phone batteries faster than expected

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations before mid-November - December sees influx of expat families and aid workers returning for holidays, creating unexpected demand

Carry exact change for PMVs (public buses) - fare is SBD $3 but drivers rarely have change during busy December period

Visit this destination between 6-7am on Wednesdays and Saturdays for best selection and prices before tour groups arrive

Most government offices and museums close early (3pm) during December - plan cultural visits for mornings

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 1pm - December heat and sudden rains make afternoons uncomfortable for hiking or walking tours

Not bringing waterproof bags for electronics - even covered boat trips get spray, and rain arrives without warning

Underestimating travel time between sites - December rains create traffic delays and some roads become temporarily impassable