Honiara in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Honiara

88°F (31°C) High Temp

71°F (22°C) Low Temp

3.5 inches (89 mm) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season transition brings clearer visibility for diving at Solomonislands and Morovo Island - visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft) compared to 15 m (49 ft) during wet months
Tourist numbers at their lowest before October-December peak season - Solomonislands war sites and this destination are 40-50% less crowded than high season
Trade winds return in late September, making sailing conditions ideal around Solomonislands and day trips to Solomonislands Island significantly more comfortable
Local produce season peaks - fresh coconut crabs, ngali nuts, and September mango varieties are at markets for ฿15-25 per serving compared to imported alternatives

Considerations

Intermittent rain showers occur 10 days per month, typically 2-4pm daily, can disrupt outdoor market visits and hiking plans at Mount Austen
High humidity at 70% makes walking around central Honiara uncomfortable between 11am-3pm, requiring indoor breaks and increased water intake
Some outer island transport services run reduced schedules as operators prepare boats for high season - ferry services to Solomonislands may be limited to 3x weekly instead of daily

Best Activities in September

Iron Bottom Sound Historical Diving Tours

September's improving water clarity makes this the ideal time to explore WWII wreck sites. Water temperature sits at comfortable 26°C (79°F) and visibility reaches 25 m (82 ft). Morning departures avoid afternoon weather patterns and tourist crowds are minimal.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through certified dive operators - prices typically range ฿4,500-6,500 for full-day trips including equipment. Look for PADI-certified guides and boats with safety equipment. See current tour options in booking section below.

Central Market Cultural Immersion

September brings peak season for local produce - coconut crabs, fresh fish, and tropical fruits are abundant. Lower tourist numbers mean authentic interactions with vendors. Early morning visits (6-8am) avoid both crowds and afternoon humidity.

Booking Tip: Join guided market tours that include cooking classes, typically ฿1,200-2,000 per person. Book through cultural centers or licensed food tour operators. Morning tours 6-9am recommended to beat weather and crowds.

Mount Austen Battlefield Hiking

September's moderate rainfall keeps trails manageable while vegetation is lush. Temperatures are comfortable for the 3-4 hour hike to 400 m (1,312 ft) elevation. Clear morning conditions offer excellent views over Solomonislands before afternoon cloud buildup.

Booking Tip: Arrange guided historical treks ฿2,800-4,200 including transport and guide. Book through war history specialists 5-7 days ahead. Start early (7am) to complete hike before afternoon weather. Bring 3 liters (0.8 gallons) water per person.

Marovo Lagoon Multi-Day Expeditions

September marks transition to clearer waters perfect for snorkeling the world's largest saltwater lagoon. Calmer seas and reduced rainfall make multi-day stays at traditional villages more comfortable. Water temperature perfect at 27°C (81°F).

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 week village stays through registered eco-tourism operators, typically ฿8,500-12,000 for 3-day packages including meals and activities. Requires advance planning for traditional welcome ceremonies. Check current expedition options below.

Tulagi Island Day Trips

Former colonial capital becomes accessible as September brings calmer seas for the 45-minute boat journey. Historical sites are less crowded and local guides have more availability. Swimming conditions ideal with minimal rainfall affecting visibility.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost ฿3,200-4,800 including boat transport and guided tours. Book 3-5 days ahead through licensed boat operators - verify safety equipment and weather backup plans. Morning departures recommended for best sea conditions.

Traditional Village Craft Workshops

September's moderate weather makes extended indoor craft sessions comfortable. Local artisans have increased availability before high tourist season. Perfect time to learn traditional shell money making, wood carving, and basket weaving without extreme heat.

Booking Tip: Half-day workshops typically ฿1,800-3,200 per person including materials and take-home pieces. Book through cultural centers or village tourism committees 1 week ahead. Indoor venues provide comfort during afternoon rain periods.

September Events & Festivals

Early September

Independence Day Celebrations

July 7th independence commemorations extend through cultural festivals in September. Traditional dance performances, custom ceremonies, and cultural displays happen at Banjul and various villages. Authentic cultural immersion opportunity with minimal tourist crowds.

Mid to Late September

Ngali Nut Harvest Season

Traditional harvest period brings community gathering events and cooking demonstrations. Local villages welcome visitors to participate in traditional food preparation methods. Markets overflow with fresh nuts and derivative products.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking pants - 70% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable, synthetic fabrics dry within 1-2 hours after rain

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 8 and water activities reflect additional UV exposure

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon showers last 30-45 minutes but can be intense

Merino wool or synthetic shirts - cotton stays damp in 70% humidity and becomes uncomfortable

Water shoes with good grip - rocky beaches and coral areas require protection, wet surfaces are slippery

Waterproof phone case - essential for boat trips and unexpected rain during outdoor activities

Insect repellent with 30% DEET - mosquitoes are active during humid periods, especially near water

Lightweight long sleeves for evening - protection from insects and occasional cool evening breezes

Dry bags in multiple sizes - protects electronics and spare clothes during boat trips and rain

Comfortable walking sandals - feet need to breathe in humid conditions, closed shoes become uncomfortable

Insider Knowledge

Local flights between islands get booked up quickly in September as operators reduce frequency - book Solomon Airlines inter-island flights at least 2 weeks ahead

this destination vendors offer best prices and selection before 8am - after 10am, heat affects produce quality and tourist markup begins

Many guesthouses don't advertise online but offer better rates than hotels - ask at Solomon Kitano reception desk for family-run accommodation referrals in Point Cruz area

September mobile data is often slow due to increased usage as people return from outer islands - download offline maps and translation apps before arriving

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking diving trips for afternoon departures - seas get rougher after 2pm and afternoon rain reduces visibility by 30-40%

Underestimating travel time between attractions - wet season road damage persists through September, adding 25-35% more time to journeys

Wearing only sandals for hiking - September trails are muddy from recent rains, proper hiking boots needed for Mount Austen and battlefield sites