Capital city in Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands
Honiara
The Solomon Islands' rough-edged capital and a base for WWII wreck diving and island hopping. Pricey for what it offers, with limited tourism infrastructure; best for divers and adventurous travelers with a plan.
At a glance
- Safety3/5Take real precautionsDetails
- Monthly budget$1,760–2,770Comfortable, one person · SI$14,000–22,000Details
- Value for money18/100Better value than 17% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goMay–OctWarmest: Dec, 30°CDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or filtered water.Details
- LGBTQ+2/5HostileDetails
- Solo travel2/5English: common in tourist areasDetails
- Doctor's visit$25–57Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundMinibusWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMostly cashCash is needed for markets, minibuses and small shops; cards at larger hotels only.Details
Where to stay in Honiara
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Honiara center | Hotels, restaurants, markets and the wharf |
| Point Cruz–Mataniko | Waterfront, museum and short walks to services |
| Tasahe–Ranadi | Hillside hotels with views and quieter streets |
Apps that work in Honiara
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp, Messenger
- Taxis: No ride apps. Taxis are unmetered; agree the fare first or have your hotel arrange drivers.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Solomon Islands.
- Mostly cash Cash is needed for markets, minibuses and small shops; cards at larger hotels only. ATMs are in Honiara.
- Currency: Dollar (SBD). US$1 ≈ SI$7.95 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: ATMs at Honiara airport, Honiara banks and a few provincial centres; carry enough cash for the islands.
- Tipping: Not expected or customary.
- Paying by phone: Rarely accepted; carry cash outside Honiara hotels.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Most visitors must now apply online for a Tourist Visa (US$100) before travel; a temporary grace period may still allow visas on arrival.
- Some passports are exempt under reciprocal agreements; check the Immigration Division before booking.
- Your passport needs 6 months' validity and 2 blank pages. Carry proof of measles vaccination or face a medical check.
Emergency numbers
Police 999 · Ambulance 111 · Fire 988
Plugs
Type I, G · 220 V, 50 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Our Telekom and bmobile sell prepaid SIMs in Honiara; coverage is limited outside towns.
Going to Honiara solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Honiara meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.