Welcome to Guadalcanal, a name that resonates with history and is set amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Solomon Islands. This port offers a unique journey back in time, primarily attracting cruise lines like P&O Cruises Australia, Silversea, and Ponant with its profound World War II legacy.
Cruise passengers are drawn to Guadalcanal not for luxury resorts, but for the raw, authentic experience of exploring historic battlefields, diving among wartime wrecks, and engaging with the vibrant Melanesian culture.
Its appeal lies in this powerful blend of poignant history and unspoiled tropical landscapes, offering a truly memorable and educational stop on a South Pacific itinerary.
The most significant attractions on Guadalcanal are related to the pivotal WWII Guadalcanal Campaign. A visit to the U.S. War Memorial on Skyline Drive is essential, offering panoramic views of the coast and a solemn tribute to the Allied forces who fought here.
Another key site is Bloody Ridge, a battlefield where one of the most intense conflicts of the campaign took place. Visitors can walk the grounds and reflect on the historical importance of the location.
The outdoor Vilu War Museum provides a fascinating, albeit rustic, display of downed aircraft, cannons, and other remnants of the war set within a beautiful garden. For a dose of local culture and a break from war history, the Honiara Central Market is a vibrant place to experience daily Melanesian life and see local crafts and produce.
Most of these sites are spread out and are best visited as part of a guided shore excursion.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
From the port in Honiara, a popular boat excursion is to the nearby island of Tulagi. Once the capital of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate, Tulagi is rich in its own WWII history and can be reached by a boat trip of about an hour, offering a different perspective on the region's past.
Another accessible destination is Savo Island, located northwest of Guadalcanal. Reachable by a longer boat journey, it is famous for its active volcano, thermal springs, and unique nesting grounds for the Megapode bird, which buries its eggs in the warm volcanic sand. This trip typically requires a full-day, pre-arranged tour.
For those interested in diving or snorkeling, Bonegi Beach is a short drive from Honiara and is known as a top shore-diving spot where you can see two partially submerged Japanese shipwrecks just feet from the water's edge.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Cruise ships visiting Guadalcanal typically anchor in the waters off Honiara, the capital city, and passengers are brought ashore via tender boats. The tenders usually arrive at the main wharf at Point Cruz, which is centrally located.
The tender pier is situated right at the edge of Honiara's main commercial district. From here, it is a short walk to the Honiara Central Market, the National Museum, shops, and banks.
While the immediate city center is walkable, transportation is necessary to reach the famous WWII battlefields and memorials, which are located further inland or along the coast. Taxis and tour buses are readily available at the tender landing area to take passengers on excursions.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). While some major hotels in Honiara may accept Australian or US Dollars, it is not common practice elsewhere, so using local currency is strongly recommended.
ATMs are available at banks in the capital city of Honiara, but can be unreliable. It is advisable to exchange a small amount of currency for immediate needs.
Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and by some tour operators, but cash is essential for shopping at local markets, paying for taxis, and visiting smaller establishments.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Guadalcanal is generally a safe destination for tourists who take standard precautions. Crime rates are relatively low, but petty theft can occur, so it's wise to keep valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like the Central Market.
It is generally safe to explore Honiara's city center on foot during daylight hours. However, it is advisable to avoid walking alone at night; using a taxi for evening travel is recommended.
For exploring the WWII sites scattered across the island, booking a guided tour is highly recommended. This is not only for safety but also for logistical reasons, as roads can be in poor condition and sites can be difficult to find without local knowledge.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Guadalcanal has a hot and humid tropical rainforest climate year-round. Temperatures are consistently stable, with daily highs averaging 30-32°C (86-90°F) and lows around 23°C (73°F).
The island experiences a distinct wet season from November to April, which coincides with the cyclone season, bringing heavier rainfall and increased humidity. The dry season, from May to October, sees less rain and slightly more comfortable conditions, making it a more popular time for visits.
Regardless of the season, passengers should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a reliable rain jacket, strong insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the tropical sun.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Transportation options for cruise passengers are primarily taxis and pre-arranged tour vehicles. Taxis are available near the port area, but it is crucial to negotiate and agree upon a fare before your trip as they are not metered.
There are no ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft available. The local transportation system consists of minibuses, which are inexpensive but can be crowded and difficult for visitors to navigate.
For visiting the widespread historical sites outside of Honiara, the most practical and recommended option is to join a ship-sponsored shore excursion or book a private battlefield tour with a local guide, ensuring you can cover the key locations efficiently and safely within your port day.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Shopping in Guadalcanal is centered around authentic, local handicrafts rather than luxury goods. The best place to shop is the bustling Honiara Central Market, where you can find a wide array of items directly from the artisans.
Look for beautiful hand-carved wooden items, particularly bowls, masks, and decorative figures made from local woods like rosewood and ebony. Woven baskets, shell jewelry, and colorful sarongs known as 'lava-lavas' are also popular souvenirs.
Bargaining is a common and accepted practice at the market, so feel free to negotiate prices respectfully. Cash, specifically the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD), is essential for most purchases as credit cards are not accepted by market vendors.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
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On average Guadalcanal is extremely inexpensive as a port of call. Take a look at the diagram below for the average cost per day by month. Prices are roughly the same throughout the year.
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