Diving Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands, in the South Pacific, only has a few small remote dive resorts but the islands of Uepi and Gizo are outstanding with lots of wrecks from WWII (especially around Guadalcanal), pristine reefs, and walls, and lots of different fish. The Russels stand out with dramatic underwater scenery of rocks, caves, and cracks. In the Florida Group Twin Shaft Pinnacles is an excellent dive. Reefs generally start close to the surface and drop off gradually. The waters of the Solomon Islands are nutrient-rich, hosting a diverse ecosystem, from macro life to pelagic predators.
Best time to dive
Diving is year-round, but April and May are the best months followed by October, November, and December.
Visibility
Visibility averages 50 to 100+ feet.
Water temperatures
Water temperature averages 80 to 84 °F.
Weather and climate
Temperatures on the tropical Solomon Islands are constant throughout the year at 86 °F. Rainfall varies enormously, peaking between January and April, the monsoon season. This is also cyclone season. Humidity during this season commonly hits a stifling 90%, but in the afternoons and for the bulk of the year, the islands are fanned by mild southeasterly trade winds.
Language
English and Solomons Pijin
Passport/Visa requirements
Passports are required for entry into the Solomon Islands. A visitor’s permit will be issued on arrival for citizens of the United States and most Commonwealth and European countries. A return or ongoing ticket must be presented as well
Currency
Solomon Islands Dollar – Get exchange rates at http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Electrical current
230/240 volts, 50 Hz
Capital
Honiara
General information
Just to the east of Papua New Guinea in the South Pacific are the 992 islands that make up the Solomons. The third-largest archipelago in the region, the Solomons are made up of mountainous islands covered in tropical rainforests, entirely clear-felled islands, and many low-lying coral atolls. The islands include Guadalcanal, Malaita, Santa Isabel, San Cristobal, Choiseul, New Georgia, and the Santa Cruz group.
Map
Get a map of the Solomons from WorldAtlas.com.