Western Province (Gizo, Munda)
Turquoise lagoons and sunken history 🐠
Western Province is widely considered the jewel of the Solomon Islands tourism industry and is the most family-friendly region outside the capital. The geography is dominated by stunning archipelagos, volcanic peaks, and vast lagoons—specifically Marovo and Roviana—which protect the waters, creating calm swimming conditions ideal for children. Unlike the rougher open ocean, these lagoons are like giant, clear swimming pools teeming with marine life.
Gizo, the provincial capital, is a colorful town with a waterfront market and easy access to nearby islands. A short boat ride takes families to Kennedy Island (locally known as Plum Pudding Island), where the future US President JFK swam ashore after his PT boat was sunk during WWII. It is a perfect spot for a family picnic and snorkeling lesson. The nearby Ghizo Island coastline has several resorts that cater to families, offering comfortable bungalows over the water where kids can watch fish right from the deck.
Munda, located on New Georgia Island, is another major hub with a direct airstrip. The area is rich in WWII history, with the Peter Joseph WWII Museum displaying a vast collection of dog tags and artifacts found in the jungle—a fascinating, tactile history lesson for kids. The surrounding Roviana Lagoon offers incredible snorkeling over coral gardens and sunken fighter planes that are shallow enough to be seen from the surface. For active families, Kolombangara Island looms large on the horizon, offering hiking opportunities for those with teenagers.
Transport between Gizo, Munda, and the lagoons is usually by small motorized canoes. While generally safe, families should ensure life jackets are available and be prepared for sun exposure; hats and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable. This region offers the best balance of adventure and comfort, with reliable electricity and food options in the main hubs, making it the primary choice for a family holiday in the Solomons.
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Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
A spectacular mosaic of volcanic islands and coral atolls perfect for authentic island-hopping and eco-exploration. The drier months (Sept–Dec) allow for safer navigation and trekking, whereas peak rainfall in Jan–Feb (400mm+) makes outdoor wilderness activities challenging.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Excellent beach_sea requires internationally renowned beach tourism infrastructure (Maldives, Caribbean, Southeast Asia tier). Solomon Islands has outstanding marine biodiversity but lacks luxury resorts, reliable international connections, and mainstream beach tourism branding. Zero attraction evidence in database.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Exceptional niche diving destination but lacks the global profile and infrastructure of top-tier active sports destinations (Palau, Raja Ampat, Great Barrier Reef). Surf access is minimal and undeveloped. Zero attraction evidence in database.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Features a unique concentration of WWII history, including the Kennedy Island site and significant submerged aviation relics. Peak months are ideal for educational boat tours to these historical sites, while the wet season (Jan–Mar) often limits access to remote archaeological and cultural locations.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
High-end, secluded eco-resorts offer sophisticated travelers an authentic escape far from commercial tourism hubs. The lower humidity and reduced rainfall from Sept–Dec create a more comfortable environment for outdoor relaxation compared to the intensely wet monsoon months.
Attractions (19 total)
Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Kennedy Island
Gizo
The historic site where LTJG John F. Kennedy and his crew were shipwrecked during WWII, now a popular spot for history and snorkeling.
Peter Joseph WWII Museum
Munda
An educational outdoor museum housing a vast collection of WWII relics, including equipment and personal items found in the surrounding jungle.
Skull Island (Nusa Kunda)
Munda
A sacred historic site in Roviana Lagoon featuring traditional shrines that hold the skulls of former chiefs and warriors from the headhunting era.
National Park / Nature Reserve
Marovo Lagoon
Seghe
A stunning natural wonder and UNESCO tentative site, featuring the world's largest saltwater lagoon dotted with hundreds of palm-fringed coral islands.
Tetepare Island Conservation Area
Munda
The largest uninhabited tropical island in the South Pacific, preserved as a community-run nature reserve for leatherback turtles and diverse marine life.
Visit website →Kolombangara Island Biodiversity Conservation Association (KIBCA)
Gizo
A community-managed conservation area covering the high-altitude forests and volcanic crater of Kolombangara Island, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Visit website →Hiking & Cycling Routes
Mount Veve Summit Trek
Ringgi, Kolombangara Island
Approximately 18km round-trip challenging 2-day trek with 1,770m elevation gain. This route leads to the highest point in the Western Province through dense moss forest and volcanic crater rims. Guided tours and logistics are managed by the Kolombangara Island Biodiversity Conservation Association (KIBCA). Website: kibca.org
Visit website →Gizo Island Coastal Loop
Gizo
21km moderate cycling or hiking route around the perimeter of Gizo Island. Typical duration 2-4 hours. The route is mostly flat with minor hills and offers views of the surrounding reef. Bike rentals are available through local guesthouses and operators such as Fatboys Resort (solomonislandsfatboys.com.au).
Visit website →Mount Vina Roni Hike
Munda
8km moderate day hike with approximately 450m elevation gain. The trail leads to a high vantage point on New Georgia Island overlooking the Roviana Lagoon. Typically takes 3-5 hours. Guided access is recommended through local operators in Munda such as Go West Tours.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Roviana Lagoon
Munda
A sprawling lagoon system near Munda known for its rich marine biodiversity, turquoise channels, and traditional skull shrines.
Olasana Island
Gizo
A pristine tropical island near Gizo with calm beaches and shallow reefs, making it a favorite for family day trips and picnics.
Mount Kolombangara
Ringgi
A majestic dormant volcano providing diverse rainforest trails and breathtaking views over the surrounding archipelago.
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Tetepare Island
Munda
The largest uninhabited tropical island in the Southern Hemisphere, providing families with a rugged coastal wilderness and rare wildlife encounters.
Visit website →Saeraghi Beach
Gizo
A stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water on Gizo Island, perfect for swimming and experiencing local coastal village life.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
St. Peter's Cathedral
Gizo
An iconic hilltop landmark in Gizo, this brick cathedral is known for its distinct architecture and views over the surrounding islands.
Gizo Market
Gizo
The central urban landmark of the Western Province, this vibrant waterfront market is the best place to see local culture and traditional woodcarvings.
Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Kolombangara Island Biodiversity Conservation Area
Gizo
A stunning volcanic island reserve managed by local communities, providing a protected haven for rare bird species and pristine tropical cloud forests ideal for nature-loving families and trekkers.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Skull Island
Munda
A sacred cultural site in the Vonavona Lagoon housing the skull shrines of ancient Roviana chiefs and headhunters.
Telina Village
Seghe
A traditional cultural village in Marovo Lagoon renowned for its master woodcarvers and authentic Solomon Island craftsmanship.
