Honiara in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Honiara
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak turtle nesting season at Tetere Beach - October offers the best chances to witness hawksbill and green turtle egg-laying, with 15-20 nests recorded weekly
- Optimal diving conditions with 25-30m (82-98 ft) visibility at Solomonislands and water temperatures at 27°C (81°F) - perfect for WWII wreck exploration
- Post-dry season river levels ideal for Mataniko Falls access - pools are deep enough for swimming but currents remain manageable for beginners
- Festival season begins with preparations for Christmas celebrations - local markets overflow with seasonal crafts and traditional foods like cassava pudding
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly between 2-5pm on 60% of days, lasting 45-90 minutes with heavy downpours that can flood low-lying areas
- Humidity peaks at 85% during morning hours, making early outdoor activities feel oppressive until trade winds pick up around 10am
- October marks the beginning of cyclone season - while direct hits are rare, weather can change rapidly and inter-island flights face delays
Best Activities in October
WWII Historical Diving Tours
October's calm seas and exceptional visibility make this the premier month for exploring Solomonislands's sunken fleet. Water temperature at 27°C (81°F) allows comfortable diving without thick wetsuits. Morning dives (7-11am) avoid afternoon storms. Japanese destroyers and US cruisers lie in 15-40m (49-131 ft) depths.
Central Market Cultural Immersion
October brings seasonal produce including fresh coconut crabs, flying fox fruit, and early mango varieties. Market operates 5am-6pm with peak activity 7-10am when fishing boats return. Temperatures are comfortable for wandering before midday heat. Local vendors prepare traditional lap lap in earth ovens visible on Saturdays.
Mataniko Falls Adventure Hiking
October's post-dry season water levels create perfect swimming conditions in the upper pools while maintaining safe rock-hopping routes. The 3.2 km (2 mile) jungle trail is challenging but manageable, with river crossings shallow enough for confident wading. Cave systems behind the falls are accessible with proper lighting.
Traditional Fishing Village Experiences
October marks the beginning of bonito season, and coastal villages like Tanaghai and Verahue welcome visitors to observe traditional fishing methods. Outrigger canoe construction and net-weaving demonstrations happen in morning cool before 11am. Evening cooking sessions feature fresh catches prepared in coconut cream.
Botanical Gardens and Rainforest Walks
October's regular rainfall triggers spectacular flowering of native orchids and birds-of-great destination. The 45-hectare (111-acre) grounds near Honiara offer 4 marked trails from 1.2-6 km (0.7-3.7 miles). Early morning visits (6-9am) provide best wildlife viewing before heat builds. Fruit bat colonies most active at dusk.
Skull Island and Lagoon Snorkeling
October's calm lagoon conditions and reduced wind create ideal snorkeling environments around traditional burial sites and coral gardens. Water visibility reaches 18-25m (59-82 ft) with minimal current. Cultural protocols require local guide accompaniment. Morning trips avoid afternoon weather buildup.
October Events & Festivals
Independence Day Celebrations
July 7th preparations begin in October with traditional dance rehearsals, cultural performances, and craft preparation. Local communities practice traditional war dances and create custom handicrafts. Visitors can observe rehearsals at community centers and purchase authentic carved masks and shell jewelry.
Bonito Season Festival
Coastal villages celebrate the return of bonito fish with traditional ceremonies and communal fishing expeditions. Villages like Solomonislands and Solomonislands hold weekend celebrations featuring traditional cooking methods and outrigger canoe races.