The Solomon Islands are a fascinating destination for travelers who love history, culture, and lush landscapes. What makes this archipelago truly special is the way its stories are embedded in the land and its people. Whether you’re interested in exploring World War II battlefields, getting a local feel of Honiara’s city or tasting premium chocolate, the Solomon Islands offer memorable options for every type of traveler. We particularly like the opportunity to visit WWII sites, which reveal the pivotal role the islands played during the war, and the chance to stroll through Honiara’s lively streets, soaking in local life. For nature lovers, the Chocolate trail introduces you to the island’s cacao heritage in a way that’s both sweet and educational.
If you’re curious about what tours stand out, we’ve put together a list of the best experiences in the Solomon Islands. From in-depth historical tours to quick city highlights, each offers a unique way to see and understand this island nation. For an immersive trip, consider the detailed WWII battlefield tour, but for a shorter introduction, the half-day city tour is perfect. Let’s dive into what each of these top-rated options entails.
Quick Overview
Our list features diverse tours suited for different interests and schedules. You’ll find a 4.5-hour WWII battlefield tour that covers key historic sites with personalized guides, ideal for history buffs. The Honiara City Half Day Tour offers a relaxed look at city landmarks like the Holy Cross Cathedral and the National Parliament, perfect for those seeking a cultural overview. For travelers arriving at the airport, a straightforward airport transfer makes getting to your hotel simple and stress-free. Lastly, the Chocolate trail takes you into the lush plantations where Solomon Islands’ world-famous chocolate begins, perfect for food lovers and families alike.
Below, we explore each tour in detail, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which fits your travel style best.
1. East Honiara Historic World War II Battlefields Tour
At number one, this 4.5-hour WWII battlefield tour is a must for history enthusiasts. It covers the Guadalcanal campaign sites, including the Guadalcanal American Memorial, Japanese War Memorial, Betikama School War Museum, and the Edsons Ridge Monument. The tour offers a comprehensive look at the pivotal battles fought on the islands, with your knowledgeable guides sharing details about the fierce conflicts that shaped the Pacific during the 1940s.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and personalized service. You can request bathroom breaks or shopping stops, and the guides prioritize your safety and comfort. The site visits are carefully chosen to give a well-rounded understanding of WWII in Guadalcanal. The Guadalcanal American Memorial is a poignant tribute, while the Japanese War Memorial on Mt. Austin offers a reflective moment. The Betikama School War Museum showcases artifacts like salvaged aircraft wrecks, bringing history to life.
Curiously, guests praise the guides’ depth of knowledge and the opportunity to explore sites not easily accessible alone. One reviewer mentioned, “Very good information given. A must if you are visiting Honiara.” The cost of around $160 per person makes it an accessible, value-packed option for history lovers.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in WWII history, this tour offers a detailed, flexible, and well-curated experience that’s hard to beat.
2. Honiara City-Half Day City Tour
The Honiara City Half Day Tour offers a lively ride through the heart of the capital. Covering about 4.5 hours, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick but thorough overview of Honiara’s key landmarks. It includes stops at the Solomon Islands Memorial Garden, Holy Cross Cathedral, and the National Parliament—places that capture the spirit and history of the city.
What’s special about this tour is the local guide’s storytelling—offering insights into the city’s architecture, religious sites, and political centers. Your guide will also provide context in Pidgin and English, making the experience engaging and informative. The Memorial Garden is a peaceful spot to reflect on the island’s WWII history, while the Holy Cross Cathedral showcases the blend of faith and community. Passing by the Round Haus (the Parliament building), you’ll get a sense of Solomon Islands’ governance and local life.
Reviewers love the friendly guides and flexible stops, with one mentioning, “We managed to see the most important places and felt very safe.” The tour is priced at $122 per person, offering good value for a city orientation.
Bottom Line: This city tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights and get a feel for Honiara’s culture and history.
3. Airport Transfers from Honiara International Airport to Hotel
For travelers arriving or departing, the airport transfer service is simple, reliable, and convenient. Priced at just over $33, this transfer ensures you’re greeted with a refreshing bottle of water and a handmade shell necklace—a thoughtful touch. The service is not private but shared, which works well if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.
The transfer takes roughly 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your hotel’s location, and takes the stress out of navigating unfamiliar roads. The drivers enjoy meeting new people and making your arrival or departure smooth, helping you start or end your trip on a positive note. If you’re arriving late or have an early flight, booking ahead guarantees a hassle-free experience.
While not a tour in the traditional sense, this transfer service offers peace of mind and ensures your transportation is handled professionally. Reviews note the friendly drivers and timely pickups, making it a practical choice for travelers with tight schedules.
Bottom Line: Reliable, affordable, and friendly—this transfer service is the best way to start or finish your trip without stress.
4. The Solomon Chocolate Trail
Last on our list, the Solomon Chocolate Trail is an immersive experience for those who love sweets and learning. Priced at $200 per person, this 6-hour tour takes you to the Amazing Grace Cocoa Farm, where Solomon Islands’ chocolate begins. You’ll walk through shaded cocoa plantations, meet local farmers, and witness the entire process from bean to bar.
What makes this tour unique is the hands-on approach, including a bean-to-bar demo, where you see fermenting, drying, and roasting firsthand. You also get to sample fresh cocoa, experiencing the fruity flavors that make Solomon Islands’ chocolate special. The tour emphasizes sustainable farming, giving you a deeper appreciation of the local producers’ efforts.
Reviewers haven’t left reviews yet, but the tour’s focus on organic cocoa and local farming traditions makes it ideal for families and food lovers alike. It’s an excellent way to combine education with a tasty reward—perfect for a relaxed day out.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in sustainable agriculture and gourmet chocolate, this tour offers a flavorful journey that’s both fun and informative.
$200.00 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and schedule. If history is your thing, the WWII battlefield tour (see details here) provides a detailed, personalized look. For a quick city overview, the Honiara City Tour (more info) is perfect. If your time is limited upon arrival or departure, the airport transfer (check availability) ensures smooth logistics. For those with a sweet tooth and curiosity about local farming, the Chocolate trail (see the tour) offers an engaging, tasty experience.
When choosing, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interests. History lovers will find the WWII tour most rewarding, while travelers wanting a city orientation should go for the half-day tour. Food enthusiasts will love the chocolate experience, especially if they want to learn about sustainable farming.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak travel seasons, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
The Solomon Islands offer a surprising variety of tours that cater to different tastes—from powerful WWII sites to lively city streets and sweet cocoa farms. For a comprehensive historical experience, the East Honiara WWII Battlefield Tour stands out, while the Honiara City Half Day Tour makes a great quick introduction. The Chocolate trail offers a delightful taste of local craftsmanship and sustainable farming.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise to deepen your understanding of Solomon Islands’ culture, history, and natural beauty. Remember to book early, especially for guided experiences, and be prepared for authentic encounters that will stay with you long after your trip ends.