Solomon Islands | Australia

The Solomon Islands is a sovereign state in Oceania, comprising six major islands and over 900 smaller islands in the Melanesian subregion. The nation is defined by its rugged volcanic terrain, WWII heritage sites, and an economy based on agriculture, logging, and fisheries; the capital and commercial hub is Honiara, located on Guadalcanal.

Visa & Entry Policy

EU, US, and UK passport holders do not require a pre-arranged visa for short-term visits. Upon arrival, travelers are typically granted a Visitor’s Permit valid for up to 30 days, provided they possess a passport with at least six months' validity, a confirmed onward or return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. As of 2026, health protocols require all visitors to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within a specific timeframe prior to arrival, as the government continues to manage border safety following the 2022 reopening.

Language & Communication

English is the official language, used in government, education, and the legal system. However, it is the first language of only about 1–2% of the population. Solomons Pijin is the lingua franca used for daily communication among the majority of the 80+ distinct ethnic and linguistic groups. English proficiency is high in Honiara and tourist resorts but limited in remote rural villages.

Currency & Payment Systems

The official currency is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). As of 2026, the retail payment ecosystem remains heavily reliant on cash, with approximately 80% of transactions being physical. Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in Honiara's major hotels, large supermarkets, and some dive resorts. The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) has launched several digital initiatives, including mobile money platforms like M-SELEN and EziPei, to improve financial inclusion. Cash is mandatory for all transactions in rural provinces and for local "PMV" (Public Motor Vehicle) transport.

National Transport Grid

Inter-island transit is dominated by domestic aviation and maritime shipping. Solomon Airlines provides the primary link between Honiara (HIR) and over 20 provincial airstrips. Maritime transport is the "lifeline" of the islands, with a mix of cargo ships and passenger ferries serving the archipelago. In late 2025, the government launched a National Action Plan for Greener Shipping to modernize port infrastructure and vessels. Intra-island travel on Guadalcanal relies on PMV minibuses and taxis; there is no rail network.

Digital Infrastructure

Primary mobile network providers are Our Telekom and bmobile. 4G/LTE coverage is robust in Honiara and provincial capitals like Gizo and Auki. As of 2026, the government is prioritizing the expansion of digital public services and the implementation of a National Digital ID system. High-speed internet is primarily delivered via the Coral Sea Cable System, though rural areas still face connectivity gaps and often rely on community-based ICT centers or satellite solutions.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate is tropical, characterized by high temperatures ($25°C–32°C$) and high humidity year-round.

Dry Season (May–October): Lower humidity and less rainfall; considered the optimal time for trekking and diving.

Wet Season (November–April): Characterized by the northwest monsoon, bringing heavy rains and a risk of tropical cyclones.

Surfing Season: Peak swells occur between October and April.

Health & Safety

Malaria is endemic throughout the islands; antimalarial prophylaxis and mosquito bite prevention are strictly advised. Vaccination against Hepatitis A and Typhoid is recommended. Tap water is not potable; bottled or boiled water is necessary. As of 2026, the government is focusing on Universal Health Coverage to address high rates of non-communicable diseases. The emergency number for Police is 999 and for Ambulance is 911.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Guadalcanal: Hub: Honiara (Capital/WWII Battlefields).

Western Province: Hub: Gizo (Premier diving/Eco-tourism).

Malaita: Hub: Auki (Traditional culture/Artificial islands).

Local Cost Index

1L Water: 15.00 SBD ($1.75 USD)

1 Domestic Beer (0.5L): 35.00 SBD ($4.15 USD)

1 SIM Card (10GB Data): 200.00 SBD ($23.65 USD)

Facts & Legends

The Solomon Islands are home to the Arnavon Islands, the largest rookery for the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle in the South Pacific. A unique genetic trait allows some Melanesian islanders to have natural blonde hair, caused by a native gene mutation unrelated to European ancestry. Local folklore includes stories of the "Earth-born" ancestors and the presence of ancient megalithic shrines in the Roviana Lagoon. Historically, the archipelago was the site of the Battle of Guadalcanal, a pivotal turning point in the Pacific Theater of WWII.