Epic Solomon Islands - 2025

If there has ever been a destination for intrepid travellers seeking top-notch experiences off the beaten track, the Solomon Islands are it. This remote archipelago in the South Pacific is the epitome of a tropical island paradise - with some intrigue to match. Along with aquamarine lagoons, crocodile-infested mangrove swamps and deep green rainforests, these islands and their seas offer historical interest in the form of numerous World War 2 sites. Visitors can explore tanks long abandoned in the jungle and submerged shipwrecks that have morphed into spectacular dive sites. While this is a fairly rough and rugged destination, those willing to go the distance and brave the obstacles will be rewarded with idyllic scenery, compelling culture and world-class snorkelling and scuba diving.

Currency 

Local currency: Solomon Islands Dollar 
Symbol: SI$ 
ISO code: SBD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: SI$2, SI$5, SI$10, SI$20, SI$50, SI$100 
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, SI$1, SI$2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: No 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Solomon Airlines 
International Airports: Honiara International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Henderson Airport (Honiara), Munda Airport, Gizo Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: No 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
 
Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: No 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Solomon Islands cuisine features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables. Dishes often include fish, coconut, taro, and yams. Notable local drinks include kava, coconut water, and fruit juices. 

Tipping: Not expected 

Annual rainfall: 2,000 - 3,000 mm 
Average temperature: 28°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 31°C 
Average lows: 24°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 23°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit the Solomon Islands is during the dry season from April to October when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: No