Honiara

Understand

Honiara is the capital of the Solomon Islands.

Get around

Taxis are relatively plentiful and cheap in Honiara. They can be either ordered or flagged down. There are also frequent minibuses that operate along the coastal strip from Henderson to White River making numerous stops along the way (SBD$3 any distance).

Do

Take a guided trek to one of the waterfalls nearby, such as the beautiful Matanikau Falls, about a two-hour walk from the starting point a short bus-ride from the city centre. Check out a service at one of the many churches. South Seas Evangelical Church has an easily-found location next to the central markets and beautiful singing. Its main Sunday service is at 9:30am. There is also a smaller evening service there most Sundays at 5pm. Beach it. Wander through the bustling Central Market. It is a site to behold, in particular on Saturday mornings where you can pick up flowers and hand-made jewellery and crafts. And dive, explore, make plans or see the rest of the country...

Buy

There are many craft/souvenir shops located along the coastal strip. Handicrafts such as wooden carvings are also often sold in the covered area of Panatina Plaza carpark. Additionally, the central market is a great place to buy local handicrafts, jewellery and lavalavas (sarongs). The latter come in a range of fabrics and brightly-coloured dip-dyed designs.

There are a number of shops selling secondhand clothing, which can be found easily along the main street and elsewhere. Handmade childrens' clothing such as skirts can be found at the Central Market.

Solomon Island Newbie Guide: SHOPPING (What to buy part one) is a helpful guide to shopping in the Solomons, includes some great gift ideas.

Eat

There is surprising variety in Honiara with many restaurants catering to expats. This includes hotels listed below. There are a number of eateries near the museum, to its left if you are facing it from the main road. A range of lunch foods and drinks are on offer, including fish 'n' cassava chips and green (drinking) coconuts. The Central Market, located on the main road, is a great source of fresh fruit and vegetables. Fish and chips, as well as uncooked fish, are also sold there. A helpful list of places to purchase groceries can be found here: Newbie Honiara Guide: Food

Sleep

There are many hotels in Honiara, mainly catering to expats.

Stay safe

Note that there have been civil unrest and riots in this city. It is worth keeping up-to-date with travel advisory warnings, such as those provided by the Australian or New Zealand governments.

Take care whilst at the Central Market for pick-pockets.