Overview

The Solomon Islands is a South Pacific archipelago, which is located to the east of Papua New Guinea. This collection of islands occupies a strategic location when it comes to sea routes separating the South Pacific Ocean, the Coral Sea, and the Solomon Sea. The Solomon Islands make up a fantastic region with plenty to offer the discerning tourist.

The Solomon Islands became a British protectorate in the 1890s and the islands saw numerous battles during the period of the Second World War II, the most famous being the "Battle of Guadalcanal."

The Solomon Islands became independent in 1978, but ethnic tensions coupled with government corruption continued to cause issues for a while. The Solomon Islands have seen what was close to true anarchy in recent years, and even today a state of civil war bubbles between the Malaitan ethnic group and the Guadalcanalese islanders.

The unhurried island with awe-inspiring natural beauty is also home to people who have diverse exotic cultures.

Activities & Attractions

This hidden paradise has also been labeled a diver's paradise. You can enjoy a sunbath in the bucolic islands or a dozen of other activities including angling, hiking, surfing, and sea kayaking.

Many of the attractions on the Solomon Islands relate to the significant role played by the island during World War II. There are also a number of ancient ruins that will delight history buffs who would like to experience a piece of the complicated history of this place. This can be explored by a boat or car.

If you are fond of scuba diving and have a few days to spend in Honiara, Solomon Islands, it is worthwhile checking out the fantastic wreck diving that Solomon Islands have to offer. Notable among them is the famous Japanese transport Hirokawa Maru that sunk on the beach near Bonegi Creek, which is today left to be explored for those who are interested in learning about its history.

A few other attractions you can check out at the place include the Kavachi-Western Prov., an active submarine volcano, the WWII historical sites, and Tetepare, which is home to green, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles. The Marovo lagoon in the Western Prov. of the Solomon Islands is the most prevalent salt water lagoon in the world. Also, do not miss out on the golden opportunity to watch the wild dolphins in Savo who emerge out of their coves at sunrise.

Lodging

The best options for lodging in the Solomon Islands can be found in the capital, Honiara. The King Solomon Hotel and the Gizo Hotel are two of the popular lodging options in Solomon Islands. Though other islands in the archipelago offer accommodation facilities, the best collection of hotels is found near the capital. You also have the option of choosing a guest house for your stay. Guesthouses are common in the outer areas rather than in the big cities.

Transportation

Getting to the Solomon Islands is possible by sea or by air. The international airport Henderson is seven miles east of the capital, Honiara. There are a number of flights traversing the area, including flights from Vanuatu, Fiji, Brisbane, Australia, and a number of other neighboring areas in the South Pacific. There are a number of ways to get around once you are in the Solomon Islands.

You can sail in the waters during your visit to the Solomon Islands for a fee of $100. Outboard-powered dinghies are the most popular modes of transportation. Public minibuses are found only in the area of Honiara. The fare is about $3. Open-backed trucks or tractor-drawn trailers are other ways of getting around the place. If you are out in the country-side, you will be surprised to find that most of the vehicles here also function as public transport.