Family Outings in Honiara

October 31, 2026

Visitors with children should expect a quiet menu in Honiara. There are four outings that work, listed here from easiest to hardest, and a short set of rules that protect children from the real hazards of the coast. Costs are in Solomon Islands dollars (SBD).

Rules before any outing

Children in Honiara face four hazards: animals in the water, objects on the ground, mosquitoes and crowds.

Crocodiles, both fresh and saltwater, and sharks are common. Large crocodiles have been seen offshore at beaches near the town. Keep children out of the open sea, and keep them away from river mouths, estuaries and mangrove channels.
Unexploded weapons remain near the old battlefields. Teach children never to pick up or kick any rusted metal.
Malaria, dengue and Zika all occur. Cover arms and legs at dusk, use repellent and ask a travel clinic about tablets.
The central market and local beaches attract thieves, so keep bags in front of you and hold hands in crowds.

Easiest: the National Museum

Mendana Avenue is home to a one-room museum that covers dance, shell currency, weapons and archaeology. It is short enough for children who tire easily. A 2016 listing shows weekday hours of about 9:00 to 16:30 and Saturday morning, with entry by donation. Check ahead, because hours may have moved.

Next: the Central Market, early

Go in the morning, when the waterfront stalls are fresh. The market runs from Monday to Saturday, from about 6:00 to 18:00, and it is shut on Sunday. Children can look at the fish, tropical fruit and craft stalls while you shop. Leave early if it gets crowded.

Next: Rove Botanic Gardens

The gardens, which date from 1965, are 2 km west of the centre and cover about 19 hectares. They hold many Solomon orchids, and the Rove River flows through them. The upkeep is poor, so treat it as a short, plain walk. Keep children away from the river. Ask at the entrance for the entry price.

Hardest: snorkelling at Bonegi

The Kinugawa Maru lies in shallow water 12 km west of Honiara and sticks out above the surface. Confident swimmers who are with an adult can snorkel beside it, using reef shoes and life vests. A small cash kastom fee goes to the landowners. No lifeguard service is on offer, so an adult must stay close at all times. If anyone feels unwell or a crocodile warning is given, everyone leaves the water at once.

Memorials

Honiara’s war memorials mark sites of loss, and unexploded shells make them poor places for children. Adults who want to visit should go alone and keep to marked ground.

Getting around

Minibuses are informal, and taxis have no meters, so agree the fare first. A hired taxi is the easiest option with children. The UK government health advice covers vaccines and mosquito protection.

Booking

Guides and transfers can be searched on Viator . Current local risks are summarised on the UK safety page .