Travel Guide for Solomon Island

Explore the hidden paradise of this Pacific archipelago comprising of 992 islands; there is so much to see and do in the Solomon Islands - from the diver’s paradise of diverse marine life, to the wild interiors of local village treks.

Feel the spirit of adventure as you explore the Solomons; take a step back in time where the islands remain – unhurried, undeveloped, untouched and unspoiled. 

Experience the diversity of the Pacific cultures and discover a place so different, but so Solomons...remember – we may be worlds apart, but we’re only hours away.

History

It was not until the 16th Century that the European world came to learn of the Solomon Islands when the Spanish explorer, Alvaro de Mendana, made first sightings in 1568. After Mendana, others – mainly Dutch and French explorers – made forays into the group, followed by the Germans and British. 

The islands of New Georgia, Guadalcanal, Makira and Malaita became a British protectorate in 1893 with Tulagi proclaimed the protectorate capital in 1896. The islands of Santa Cruz, Rennell and Bellona were included between 1898 and 1899. The Shortlands, Choiseul, Santa Isabel and Ontong Java were not roped into the protectorate until 1900. The Solomon Islands gained independence from Britain on July 7, 1978. 

WWII

From May 1942, when the Battle of the Coral Sea was fought, until December 1943, the Solomons were almost constantly a scene of combat. Although U.S. forces landed on Guadalcanal virtually unopposed in August 1942, they were soon engaged in a bloody fight for control of the islands' airstrip, which the U.S. forces named Henderson Field. One of the most furious sea battles ever fought took place off Savo Island, near Guadalcanal, also in August 1942. Before the Japanese completely withdrew from Guadalcanal in February 1943, over 7,000 Americans and 21,000 Japanese died. By December 1943, the Allies were in command of the entire Solomon chain.

Alvero de Mendana – the Spanish explorer who discovered the islands – marvelled at the wonders they had to offer and named the Solomon Islands, making reference to the wealth of the biblical King Solomon. 

The Solomons is made up of 992 islands which are divided into 9 provinces. Here you will find information about each of these regions’ unique and distinctive customs, traditions and history as well as the best attractions in the region. 

Honiara is the capital city of the Solomons, the main centre for commerce & entry point for most visitors. Honiara is located inGuadalcanal. Three beautiful island groups make up Central – Savo, Ngella and the Russell’s. These colourful Islands are close to Honiara. Undeveloped, Choiseul is anadventurer’s haven. Be sure to experience the natural wonder of the forest, the wildlife, and arts & crafts. Guadalcanal is the main island and home of Honiara. Explorers found gold & claimed it was one of King Solomons’ mines. Isles de Salomon became the name. Makira is full of surprises. Some cultural practices are only found here, like ancient fishing methods & crocodile wrestling, and much more... Malaita is the ultimate cultural destination – discover tribesmen still wearing bark clothing; artificial islands & Polynesian occupied outer islands. Santa Isabel is the longest island ofthe Solomons. Together, with other islands, Santa Isabel forms the Isabel province – the land of singing and dancing. This is the youngest province in the Solomons; both islands are raised atolls resembling a basin. Rennellhas the South Pacific’s largest inland lake. In the East, Temotu offers a huge range of historical and cultural experiences. See early explorer remains, the volcano Tinakula, & unique red feather money.