Honiara, the bustling capital of the Solomon Islands, is a gateway to both the nation’s unique heritage and the unspoiled beauty of the South Pacific. Set along the scenic Guadalcanal coast, this city is where island life flows into lively markets, fascinating museums, and peaceful beaches lined with swaying palms. While Honiara may look unassuming at first glance, its historical legacy and multicultural atmosphere make it a rewarding destination for curious travelers.
A major draw for many visitors is Honiara’s profound World War II history. History enthusiasts can walk the battlefield sites and explore relics from the Battle of Guadalcanal at the Solomon Islands National Museum and the moving American and Japanese war memorials perched on the hills above town. The vibrant Central Market is the hub of daily life and a window into local culture — expect piles of tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and colorful handicrafts. Nature lovers can escape to the nearby Botanic Gardens or take a short journey to Bonegi Beach for snorkeling and diving among sunken wartime wrecks.
Honiara is both energetic and laid-back. The scent of frangipani drifts through the air, while streets hum with the sound of local buses called 'Solomon Buses.' The cultural mix here is evident in the diverse food scene, blending Melanesian flavors with Asian and Western influences at local eateries and market stalls. English is widely spoken, and visitors often remark on the warm hospitality of residents, who are happy to share stories about their homeland.
Getting around Honiara is relatively straightforward, with shared taxis and minibuses covering most main routes, though traffic can be heavy in peak hours. Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels overlooking the sea. For dining, try grilled reef fish or cassava pudding at a waterfront café, and don’t miss sipping coconut water from a roadside vendor.
The best time to visit Honiara is between May and October, when the weather is drier and humidity is lower. The city comes alive with festivals and cultural displays during Independence Day in July, offering a glimpse into local traditions. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, stay hydrated, and allow time to connect with local guides — you’ll find that the stories and warmth of Honiara linger long after your trip.
A major draw for many visitors is Honiara’s profound World War II history. History enthusiasts can walk the battlefield sites and explore relics from the Battle of Guadalcanal at the Solomon Islands National Museum and the moving American and Japanese war memorials perched on the hills above town. The vibrant Central Market is the hub of daily life and a window into local culture — expect piles of tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and colorful handicrafts. Nature lovers can escape to the nearby Botanic Gardens or take a short journey to Bonegi Beach for snorkeling and diving among sunken wartime wrecks.
Honiara is both energetic and laid-back. The scent of frangipani drifts through the air, while streets hum with the sound of local buses called 'Solomon Buses.' The cultural mix here is evident in the diverse food scene, blending Melanesian flavors with Asian and Western influences at local eateries and market stalls. English is widely spoken, and visitors often remark on the warm hospitality of residents, who are happy to share stories about their homeland.
Getting around Honiara is relatively straightforward, with shared taxis and minibuses covering most main routes, though traffic can be heavy in peak hours. Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels overlooking the sea. For dining, try grilled reef fish or cassava pudding at a waterfront café, and don’t miss sipping coconut water from a roadside vendor.
The best time to visit Honiara is between May and October, when the weather is drier and humidity is lower. The city comes alive with festivals and cultural displays during Independence Day in July, offering a glimpse into local traditions. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, stay hydrated, and allow time to connect with local guides — you’ll find that the stories and warmth of Honiara linger long after your trip.
Expected Weekly Budget
$800–$1200 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Explore WWII relics and memorials around the city
- Visit the Central Market for crafts, produce, and local street food
- Snorkel and dive at Bonegi Beach to see sunken war wrecks
- Stroll through the lush Honiara Botanic Gardens
- Learn about Melanesian culture at the Solomon Islands National Museum
- Take a day trip to Tenaru Waterfall for hiking and swimming
- Relax by the Mataniko River and explore Mataniko Falls
- Enjoy ocean views from a seaside café at Point Cruz
Notable Sites
- Solomon Islands National Museum
- American War Memorial
- Japanese War Memorial
- Central Market
- Bonegi I & II Shipwrecks
- Honiara Botanic Gardens
- Mataniko Falls
- Tenaru Waterfall
General Advice
Honiara is a fascinating blend of history, local culture, and tropical scenery, making it a rewarding stop for travelers to the Solomon Islands. While the city is compact, many sites of interest are best reached by a short taxi or bus ride. English is commonly spoken, but learning a few greetings in Solomon Pijin is appreciated. Come prepared for tropical heat and occasional showers, and always dress respectfully when visiting markets, religious sites, or villages. Take time to chat with locals for cultural insight and guidance.
Security & Safety
Honiara is generally safe for visitors, but exercise standard awareness: keep valuables secure, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious in less crowded areas after dark. The petty theft risk is higher around markets and busy spots, so use a money belt or secure bag. If heading out of town, check local updates or travel advisories, as road conditions can change quickly with the weather. Stick to bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues, and only swim at recommended beaches due to currents and wildlife.
Travel Tips
- Carry small denominations in local currency (Solomon Island dollar) for markets and transport.
- Taxis and minibuses are the main form of city transport—agree on fares before departing.
- Pack light, breathable clothing and a rain jacket for sudden tropical downpours.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and mosquito repellent for beaches and hikes.
- Respect local customs and always ask before taking photos of people.
- Tap water is not always safe—stick to bottled or boiled water.
- Try local food at smaller stalls for authentic flavors and better prices.
- Wi-Fi can be unreliable; get a local SIM card if you need data connectivity.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in March 2024
Honiara surprised me with its laid-back vibe and rich WWII history. Exploring the American and Japanese war memorials above the city gave me a real sense of the past. The Central Market was busy but full of color. Wish there were more easy walking paths, but taxis were cheap.
Stayed in December 2023
Our family spent a week here and loved every minute. The kids loved snorkeling at Bonegi Beach and spotting colorful fish among the shipwrecks. The museum gave us a great introduction to island culture and everyone was so friendly. It’s a great spot for adventurous families.
Traveled here in July 2023
Was in Honiara during the independence celebrations and the city felt festive! Local dances and music everywhere. The heat was no joke, but finding shade in the botanic gardens helped. Would recommend staying closer to Point Cruz for easy access to restaurants.
Visited in May 2024
I came for the WWII sites and was not disappointed. The war relics at Bonegi Beach were fascinating for a history buff like me. Downtown traffic was a bit chaotic, but the local guides made it easy to get around. Don’t miss the sunset from the Japanese Memorial.
Visited in June 2024
The natural setting of Honiara was amazing. We hiked to Tenaru Waterfall with a guide—bit muddy but worth every step! Also had some of the best grilled fish I’ve ever tasted at a market stand. It can get a bit humid, so bring light clothes.
Stayed in September 2023
Friendly people and really interesting history, though the city itself could use some sprucing up. I found the museums fascinating but wish there were more places to relax by the water. Public transport took some figuring out, but once you get the hang of it, it’s fine.
Traveled here in February 2024
Diving at Bonegi shipwrecks was the highlight of my trip. The coral and marine life are fantastic. Enjoyed walking through the bustling market and sampling local pineapples. Would visit again just for the diving.
Visited in August 2023
Honiara is a hidden cultural center. I loved listening to live music and meeting artisans at the Central Market. The Botanic Gardens were cooler than downtown and full of birds. Bring extra cash because some places don’t take cards.
Visited in November 2023
Came for business but managed to squeeze in a trip to the museum. Fascinating exhibits about Guadalcanal and local traditions. Restaurants offered a good mix of local and Asian food, though service was a bit slow—just part of island time!
Visited in April 2024
Wasn’t sure what to expect but really enjoyed exploring the colorful market stalls and chatting with locals. The heat made walking tough during the day, so plan activities early or late. The sea breeze at Point Cruz in the evenings was lovely.
Stayed in January 2024
Traveling solo, I felt quite safe in Honiara. The local food is fresh and surprisingly spicy. My guesthouse organized a minibus for the waterfalls—beautiful spot to swim. Bring mosquito repellent, though, especially after rain.
Traveled here in October 2023
Loved the relaxed vibe and the mix of cultures. Walking along the waterfront at sunset was magical, and locals went out of their way to make me feel welcome. Some areas are a bit run-down but that’s part of the charm.
Visited in June 2023
City center can get busy and crowded, especially around market times. Still, there’s nowhere quite like Honiara for WWII history. If you’re into snorkeling, don’t miss the shipwrecks—some of the best underwater sights I’ve seen.
Stayed in May 2024
I joined a local guide for a day, which made all the difference exploring cultural spots. The friendliness and generosity of people here really stood out. Try the coconut crab if you can—absolutely delicious!
Visited in February 2024
A fascinating city with a unique blend of history and island life. The American and Japanese memorials offer beautiful views. Traffic can be slow, so plan for extra travel time in the afternoons. Worth visiting if you love places off the usual tourist path.
Visited in July 2023
Went with friends and we loved shopping for handicrafts at Central Market. Beach day at Bonegi was so much fun. Bring lots of water when you’re out—humidity sneaks up on you.
Traveled here in April 2024
The local cuisine impressed me, especially the taro and fresh fish. City is small and walkable, though some sidewalks are rough. Would recommend hiring a guide for historical tours.
Stayed in October 2023
Honiara’s environment is so lush and green. The Botanic Gardens were peaceful and filled with orchids. Not a party town, but perfect for relaxing and learning about the Solomon Islands.
Visited in September 2023
Had a fascinating time exploring history and trying local snacks. Sometimes cafés would close earlier than I expected, so check hours. Found the best souvenirs at the market.
Traveled here in August 2023
Nice trip overall, though accommodation options are a bit basic for the price. Still, can’t fault the lovely staff and the fresh seafood dinners. Make sure you arrange airport pick-up with your hotel, as taxis can be scarce at night.
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