Best Activities in Honiara

This adventurous trek takes you deep into the lush rainforest surrounding the capital. The journey involves negotiating steep muddy slopes and wading directly through the shallow waters of the Matanikau River. Along the way, your local guide will point out historic Japanese foxholes left over from the Second World War. The reward at the end is a beautiful cascading waterfall that drops into a refreshing natural pool. It is an incredible way to experience the rugged nature of Guadalcanal just minutes from the urban centre.

The waters off the coast of the city are globally renowned among the diving community for their historical significance. Plunging into Ironbottom Sound reveals a haunting underwater museum of sunken Japanese and American warships, aircraft, and transport vessels. The warm tropical waters have transformed these machines of war into thriving artificial reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. It is a surreal and deeply moving experience that combines world class scuba diving with profound historical exploration.

A short boat ride from the capital brings you to this fascinating volcanic island. The guided walk takes you through steaming geothermal areas where the earth literally bubbles and hisses beneath your feet. You will also have the chance to observe the unique Megapode birds that bury their eggs deep in the warm volcanic sand to incubate. It is a fantastic day trip that offers a thrilling mix of geological wonder and rare wildlife spotting.

Located slightly further afield, this hike leads you to one of the most spectacular natural wonders on the island. The trail snakes through dense, pristine rainforest, requiring you to cross several winding creeks and navigate thick tropical vegetation. The climax of the trek is a towering sixty metre waterfall that plunges dramatically into a massive gorge. Swimming in the cool, clear basin beneath the roaring falls is a magnificent and highly refreshing experience.

The natural harbour of the city provides an excellent base for leisurely sailing along the picturesque northern coast. Chartering a small yacht allows you to view the densely forested hills of the island from a completely different perspective. The calm ocean breezes make for a highly relaxing afternoon on the water, often accompanied by pods of playful dolphins. It is a superb way to escape the heat of the town and embrace the vastness of the Pacific Ocean.