Frequently asked questions
Honiara: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Honiara: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +31.0°C, during the day — up to +29.5°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Honiara: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +22.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Honiara: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.8°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Honiara: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-March. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Honiara: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden and black sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Mbonege Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Honiara: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas.
Honiara: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish. The main sea hazards are sea urchins on coral reefs and jellyfish during summer. Swim only in lifeguard-patrolled areas. Additionally, the city has a high crime rate; increased precautions are recommended.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Honiara: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $87.00 (≈ 7 301 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Honiara: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $60.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $100.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $180.00 per night, an apartment — $50.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Honiara: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $7.00, dinner at a restaurant — $18.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Honiara: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $15.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $4.00, car rental — $55.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Honiara: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: National Museum and Art Gallery — A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Solomon Islands. The collection includes archaeological finds, traditional artefacts, and works of art.; Honiara Central Market — One of the busiest markets in the South Pacific. Here you can buy fresh fish, tropical fruits, root crops, and handicrafts.; Mbonege Beach — A picturesque beach 12 km from Honiara, known for its sunken ships from World War II. A popular place for snorkelling and diving.; American Memorial — A memorial dedicated to American soldiers who died in the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II. Panoramic views of the city and bay.; Botanical Gardens — A picturesque garden with a collection of tropical plants and trees. An ideal place for walks and nature recreation.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Honiara: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Kokoda — Fresh fish marinated in lime juice and coconut cream. A traditional Solomon Islands dish.; Cassava Pudding — A traditional pudding made from cassava with coconut milk. A sweet and aromatic dessert.; Fish in Coconut Sauce — Fresh fish stewed in coconut milk with vegetables and spices. Served with rice.; Chicken and Pumpkin Soup — A hearty soup made from chicken and pumpkin with coconut milk. A warming and aromatic dish.; Grilled Fish — Fresh fish grilled or deep-fried. Served with rice and vegetables.; Coconut Crab — A delicacy of coconut crab, steamed or grilled. Served with rice.; Tropical Fruits — Mango, papaya, bananas, pineapples, and other tropical fruits. Sold in markets and street stalls.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Honiara: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Town Centre — The administrative and commercial centre of Honiara with hotels, restaurants, shops, and main attractions. A convenient place to stay and explore the city.; Point Cruz — A coastal area with hotels, restaurants, and a promenade. Popular among tourists and locals.; Mendana — An area with upscale hotels, embassies, and restaurants. Popular among wealthy tourists.; Chinatown — A lively area with markets, shops, and restaurants. Popular among locals and tourists.; Lunga — The area around the international airport with affordable hotels and cafes. A convenient location for transit travellers.; Town Ground — An area with local cafes and shops. A good choice for budget travellers.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Honiara: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Honiara: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Хониара Международный Аэропорт (code HIR). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $15.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Honiara: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — SBD. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $87.00 (≈ 7 301 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Honiara: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Honiara: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Honiara: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Mbonege Beach — A picturesque beach 12 km from Honiara with sunken ships. A popular place for snorkelling and diving.; Tenaru Falls — A picturesque waterfall 15 km from Honiara. A popular place for trekking and swimming.; Matanikau Falls — A picturesque waterfall 20 km from Honiara. A popular place for trekking and swimming.; Savo Island — An island 30 km from Honiara, known for its beaches and diving opportunities.; Guadalcanal National Park — A national park 40 km from Honiara, known for its wildlife and tropical forests.; Auki — The capital of Malaita Province, 120 km from Honiara. Known for its Langa Langa Lagoon and traditional culture.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
