Solomon Islands — Attractions

The Solomon Islands has had its fair share of conflicts over the last few decades. However, the political unrest that once plagued this island nation certainly didn’t overshadow the natural beauty of the Solomon Islands. Many of the attractions around the country were created by Mother Nature. The spectacular Riba Cave is one such attraction that boasts beauty and mystery for tourists. Of course, artificial attractions have also made their way into the Solomon Islands’ tourism industry, such as the famous National Museum.

National Museum of the Solomon Islands

Tourists looking for information about the history of the Solomon Islands need to visit the National Museum in Honiara. Tourists will be able to see photographic displays and read about the many conflicts and significant events that made the Solomon Islands what they are today. The museum is easy to find, as it stands upon the main street of Honiara, Mendana Avenue. Address: Mendana Avenue, Honiara, Solomon Islands Phone: +677-24-896 Website: n/a

Riba Cave

An hour by foot from Aiku, on the island of Malaita, is the memorable Riba Cave. Tourists will find this large cavern to be rather eerie, but nonetheless enjoyable. Stalagmites and an underground creek greet explorers as they discover the inside of this cave. Because the cave is on private land, finding a tour is recommended when visiting Riba Cave. Remember to bring comfortable and reliable shoes, not to mention a powerful flashlight. Address: Riba Cave, Malaita Island, Solomon Islands Phone: n/a Website: n/a

US War Memorial

Located in the city of Honiara, the US War Memorial is a beautiful commemoration to the fallen Allies of WWII. It is situated upon a hill that overlooks Mendana Avenue, and was constructed by the American military in 1992. Visitors can read about the many campaigns that rocked Guadalcanal and the Solomon Islands during the war. Address: Skyline Drive, Honiara, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands Phone: n/a Website: http://www.abmc.gov/memorials/memorials/gu.php

Mataniko Falls

The Mataniko Falls are located on the island of Guadalcanal, just a short distance from Honiara. The cascades are double-sided falls which drop into a large cavern of spectacular beauty. However, the cave and waterfalls are just part of the attraction. During WWII, Japanese soldiers attempted to escape capture by hiding out inside the cave. Tourists can explore inside, but doing so with a tour guide is strongly recommended. Address: Mataniko Falls, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Lilisiana Village

Found on Malaita Island, the small fishing village of Lilisiana is a must-visit for any tourist interested in local culture. The village stands just one mile from the center of Auki township. Exploring this tiny part of the island is worth the effort. Along the shoreline, tourists will find traditional style housing, designed with long stilts. Tours of this village, and other villages around the island, can be arranged. Tourists are advised to go with a small to medium-sized group when heading to this interesting section of Malaita Island. Address: Malaita Island, Solomon Islands Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Vila Point

Found in the Western Province region of the Solomon Islands, Vila Point is a greatly underestimated attraction for this archipelago. Home to a large Japanese base during WWII, Vila Point is the perfect spot to explore the area’s historical importance. Tourists can witness the remains of the Japanese bases, and even stroll through the jungles to find old weapons and artifacts left over from the war. Visitors should spend at least an hour or two taking in the magnificence of this site. Address: Vila Point, Gizo Island, Western Province, Solomon Islands Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Vella Lavella

The beautiful island of Vella Lavella is home to many astonishing natural landmarks. However, it’s also home to a memorable WWII battle called the Naval Battle of Vella Lavella Island. Tourists come to the island for its stunning natural landscape, which includes Mt Tambisala, a sleeping volcanic mountain that is worth climbing. In addition, there is a beautiful selection of bird life found upon the island. Tourists should bring a pair of binoculars with them. Address: Vella Lavella Island, New Georgian Group, Solomon Islands Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Marovo Lagoon

Marovo Lagoon is one of the Solomon Islands’ most spectacular attractions. Found in the region of the New Georgian Islands, this lagoon is completely salt-water, and dotted with many uninhabited islands. Within the lagoon, there are dozens of perfect diving spots, so most tourists to the site will engage in this activity. Of course, visitors don’t have to get wet to enjoy the surrounding beauty of Marovo Lagoon. Spectacular bird species reside throughout the area. Address: Marovo Lagoon, Marovo Island, New Georgian Group, Solomon Islands Phone: n/a Website: n/a