Where to Stay in Honiara
Solomon Islands
|Pop. 56K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Honiara at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Honiara
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Carry small denominations of the local currency (Solomon Islands Dollar - SBD) as many smaller vendors and market stalls do not have change for larger bills, and credit card facilities are rare outside of major hotels and a few businesses.
Getting Around
Be prepared to haggle politely for taxi fares, especially if not pre-arranged through your accommodation. Confirm the price before starting the journey.
Watch Out For
Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare before getting in.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise a higher degree of caution than in many Western countries. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Trust your instincts.
Hidden Gems in Honiara
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Guadalcanal American Memorial
FREEThis memorial offers a poignant look back at the Battle of Guadalcanal and provides panoramic views of Honiara and the surrounding coastline.
Honiara Central Market
FREEExperience the vibrant heart of local life at the central market, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and a lively atmosphere.
Botanical Gardens
FREEA peaceful oasis showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants and flowers, perfect for a quiet stroll and appreciating local flora.
National Museum and Cultural Centre
Delve into the rich history and culture of the Solomon Islands through fascinating exhibits of artifacts, traditional tools, and historical displays.
Bonegi Beach
FREEKnown for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities right off the shore, Bonegi Beach offers a chance to explore underwater wonders with shipwrecks nearby.
Kakabona Village
Visit a traditional Solomon Islands village to gain insight into local customs, daily life, and perhaps witness traditional performances.
What It Costs in Honiara
Daily budget per person in SBD
๐กSimilar cost to major European cities
SBD 300/day
SBD 600/day
SBD 1200/day
Where to Stay in Honiara
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Central Market5 min
- National Museum10 min
- Point Cruz Yacht Club15 min
Pros
- +Centrally located for accessing key attractions.
- +Good access to local food and markets.
- +Most services and amenities are concentrated here.
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy.
- -Limited accommodation options.
Top stays in Central Honiara
Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel
$$$A long-standing, well-regarded hotel offering comfortable rooms and good amenities with waterfront views.
Pacific Casino Hotel
$$Features a casino and restaurant, offering a lively atmosphere and convenient location.
Honiara Hotel
$$A reliable option with spacious rooms and a central location, often used by business travelers.
Best for
Walk to
- Central Honiara15 min
- Central Market20 min
Pros
- +More affordable accommodation options available.
- +Quieter than the immediate city center.
- +Opportunity to experience a more local neighborhood.
Cons
- -Fewer tourist amenities.
- -Requires longer walks or short transport to major attractions.
Top stays in Town Ground
Lunga Guesthouse
$A simple, friendly guesthouse offering basic but clean rooms, popular with budget travelers.
Yumi Guesthouse
$Offers affordable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, good for those seeking a local feel.
Coral Sea Lodge
$$A comfortable mid-range option with a pleasant garden setting.
Best for
Pros
- +Quieter and more scenic than the city center.
- +Home to some of the better resorts.
- +Good base for exploring areas west of Honiara.
Cons
- -Requires transport to access city center attractions.
- -Fewer dining and shopping options within walking distance.
Top stays in White River
Heritage Park Hotel
$$$A premier hotel offering excellent facilities, including a pool, restaurant, and beautiful ocean views.
Seabreeze Resort
$$$Offers beachfront bungalows with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Iron Bottom Sound Hotel
$$Located with historical significance, offering good views and comfortable accommodation.
Areas to be cautious
- Areas immediately surrounding the main bus depot late at night.: Can become less monitored and potentially host to petty crime or loitering.
- Isolated, unlit streets after dark, especially away from the main roads.: Reduced visibility increases the risk of opportunistic crime.
Insider tip: Carry small denominations of the local currency (Solomon Islands Dollar - SBD) as many smaller vendors and market stalls do not have change for larger bills, and credit card facilities are rare outside of major hotels and a few businesses.
Safety in Honiara
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise a higher degree of caution than in many Western countries. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Trust your instincts.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone, particularly in less developed neighborhoods. If going out, use reputable taxis and confirm fares beforehand.
Emergency
111
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced taxis: Always agree on a fare before getting in.
- 2Misleading information: Be wary of unsolicited advice or offers from strangers, especially if they seem too good to be true.
Getting Around Honiara
Transport, connectivity, and costs
โ๏ธ
Airport to City
Taxis are the primary option; approximately 150-250 SBD for a 30-45 minute drive to the city center. Pre-negotiate fare.
๐ซ
Day Pass
Not applicable for local buses; fares are per trip.
Single: Local buses: 5-15 SBD depending on distance. Taxis: Negotiated fares, start around 30-50 SBD for short trips.
๐ถ
Walkability
Car NeededUber, Grab
๐ถ
WiFi
Fair5-15 Mbps in cafes/hotels
Public Transport
Local buses (minibuses) are the main form of public transport for short distances within Honiara; taxi services for longer distances or more direct routes.
Ride-share
No formal rideshare apps like Uber or Grab. Taxis are hailed or arranged through hotels.
Transport Tip
Be prepared to haggle politely for taxi fares, especially if not pre-arranged through your accommodation. Confirm the price before starting the journey.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Major hotels, some cafes in the city center (often requires a purchase).
Coworking
No dedicated coworking spaces. Some hotels offer business centers.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jul, Aug, Sep
Hotels & Accommodation in Honiara
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in Honiara?
Compare prices across Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and more.
Who Is Honiara Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Provides easy access to key historical sites, the national museum, and the central market, offering a concentrated introduction to the city.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable guesthouse and budget hotel options while still being relatively close to the city's amenities.
Couples Seeking Relaxation
Features resorts and hotels with more tranquil settings and amenities, ideal for unwinding away from the city bustle.
Culture Enthusiasts
Its proximity to the National Museum and the vibrant Central Market provides the best opportunities to engage with local culture and history.
About Honiara
Honiara ( HON-nee-AH-rษ) is the capital and largest city of Solomon Islands, situated on the northwestern coast of Guadalcanal. As of 2021, it had a population of 92,344 people. The city is served by Honiara International Airport and the seaport of Point Cruz, and lies along the Kukum Highway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Honiara
Is Honiara safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in Honiara?
What area should I stay in Honiara?
When is the best time to visit Honiara?
How do I get around Honiara?
Honiara Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel