The beauty of the Solomon Islands is indisputable yet still insufficiently explored.

Located in the middle of rainforests, this idyllic paradise isn’t one of the most popular and affordable destinations commonly chosen by tourists.

Still, if you’re one of those avid globetrotters who shy away from heavily traveled routes, you should definitely set your sights on the Solomons.

You’ll want to explore these islands before the sea swallows up another part of this gorgeous place, and only bright pictures in travel brochures are left to remind us about it.

The Solomon Islands archipelago is located in the South Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia.

It has more than 990 islands, but only 347 are currently inhabited.

With a total population of about 640,000 inhabitants, they are among the least populated regions on the planet. 

The Solomon Islands, while still far from mass tourism, are well known to diving, snorkeling, and surfing enthusiasts.

The volcanic origin of the archipelago, in fact, offers a unique marine landscape made up of spectacular coral reefs, crystal clear waters, and extraordinary oceanic topography made up of rocky walls and underwater volcanoes, some of which are still active.  

The seas are clear and the waters host a truly breathtaking world.

Living in this place of wonder are whales, sharks, sea snakes, fish, sea turtles – all considered sacred by the natives since they are the reincarnation of the dead. 

The waters of the islands are also very rich in wrecks dating back to the Second World War.

Apart from the coarse coral and various types of algae, the Solomons boast the second most beautiful coral reef in the world after that of the Maldives. 

On the mainland instead, you can find animals like crocodiles, snakes, lizards, and turtles.

The mainland also offers endless opportunities for recreation and discovery starting with pristine beaches, volcanoes, and spectacular lagoons.

Also, don’t forget about the tribal villages rich in history and traditions where you can attend ritual dances and try your hand at making sculptures and artifacts.

Strand von Visale by StewyOz via CC BY-SA 4.0

Guadalcanal may be the best known island of the Solomon Islands because has more than 100,000 citizens.

You can reach it by plane and land in the capital city of Honiara, which features mesmerizing jungles pervading the capital and making it even more fascinating.

Despite the grandeur of nature for the small part of the territory, you can visit the museum that contains the beauties of this Malaysian culture.

The National Museum and Cultural Center, small and well-maintained, preserves some artifacts and testimonies of the history of the island from archaeological finds to weapons, ritual ornaments, paintings, sculptures, and remnants of the Second World War.

Not far away, you arrive at the Central Market, where you can find everything from fresh fruit to shell necklaces, bags, placemats, and mats.

A walk through Mendana Avenues brings you to the US War memorial dominating the top of the skyline ridge, from where you can enjoy a splendid view of the city and the entire island.

Head west of Mendana Avenue up to Bonegi Beach and you will arrive in about 25 minutes by foot at the Vilu War Museum, an open-air museum located in a beautiful garden.

Honiara also boasts the most beautiful beaches like Kakabona Beach, Lily Beach, and Turtle Beach that absolutely need to be added to your itinerary list.

The tourist jewel of the Solomon Islands is constituted by the Western Province, a natural wonder of tropical islets, pristine lagoons, and serene waters lapped by tongues of white sand and lush vegetation.

The first stop is the Island of Gozo, which you can reach from Honiara by plane.

Gizo is the second largest city after the capital.

On the south coast, just about six kilometers from the city, is one of the spots with the most spectacular waves of the Solomons.

So, if you’re into surfing, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the surfing experience of a lifetime! 

The Second natural jewel of the Western Province is New Georgia Island and its satellite islands.

Just where the lagoons of Vonavona and Roviana meet, the city of Munda rises, the largest inhabited center on the island.

Among the sites not to be missed is the Holopro Falls, a 10-meter waterfall located just outside Munda, where you can also bathe in the pool of clear water.

Located in Easter New Georgia, the Marovo Lagoon is considered to be the most spectacular lagoon in the world.

Bordered by the islands of New Georgia and Bang Adam, the lagoon is enclosed by the double line of islands covered with palm trees and rainforests.

Skull Island by Thomas Hawk via CC BY-NC 2.0

Auki is located on the island of Malaita and is recommended to all those intending to explore non-touristy locations.

There is an old capital that deserves a visit.

This heavenly place, invaded by the sea, invites you to dive in and explore its mesmerizing underwater world.

Adventure lovers and dark tourism lovers alike also cannot miss a visit to Skull Island, an almost fantasy-like place preserving the skulls of the warriors once defeated by headhunters.

There is also a breathtaking shrine where the mortal remains of tribal chiefs are kept.

It is necessary to note that in the Solomon Islands, the climate is tropical humid. The maximum temperatures there reach 27-30 °C, while the minimum temperatures may drop to 23 °C.

It’s generally recommended to visit the Solomon Islands from November to April.

At this time of the year, the climate is ideal for most tourists.

So, if you want to enjoy your trip to its fullest, always plan accordingly!