Romantic Stays in Honiara

October 31, 2026

Honiara is a capital city and a working port, not a honeymoon island, so a romantic trip here is about a good hotel, a waterfront table and the evening light. The options are few, and they are worth knowing before you book. Costs are in Solomon Islands dollars (SBD), and dinner prices change often, so none are given.

Where to stay

Coral Sea Resort & Casino stands on the waterfront and has two restaurants, which makes it the most convenient choice for an evening without a taxi. Heritage Park Hotel is the other main address in town, with three places to eat: Terrace Cafe, GG’s and Splash Bar & Grill. For a quieter night, Raiders Hotel & Dive on Tulagi sits on the waterfront across the sound, and it now also runs Raiders Dive Lodge. Rooms at Raiders are reported at about SBD 800 to 1,500 a night, so ask for the current rate.

Sunset over Iron Bottom Sound

Honiara faces north across Iron Bottom Sound toward Savo Island and the Florida Islands, and sunset over the sound is the town’s best view. The best place to watch is from the waterfront near your hotel, where you can sit with a drink once the heat drops. Plan to be back indoors or in a taxi after dark, because night walking in town is not advised.

A night on Tulagi

Tulagi is reached by boat in about 1 to 2 hours, and a fast boat is reported at roughly SBD 250. A night here suits couples who dive or like quiet. Boats and fares change, so confirm the day before and leave the return crossing early enough to catch daylight. Unexploded weapons remain on Tulagi, so keep to roads and paths.

What to avoid

Beaches near Honiara are not for swimming. Fresh and saltwater crocodiles and sharks are common, and large crocodiles have been seen offshore at local beaches. Do not plan a swim at any river mouth, estuary or mangrove channel. Theft is also reported at local beaches and around the central market, so leave jewellery in the room safe.

Days out for two

Two outings suit a couple in daylight and with a guide: the Savo Island trip, which has hot springs and steam vents, and the Botanic Gardens at Rove, where Solomon orchids grow along the Rove River. The Central Market is open Monday to Saturday and closed on Sunday.

Practical points

Honiara is strongly Christian, and public dress is conservative, with shoulders and knees covered. Only major hotels and restaurants take international cards, so bring cash for smaller places. Malaria, dengue and Zika are present, so use repellent in the evening.

Booking

Hotel rooms can be searched on Booking.com . The UK government safety advice covers the current risks in town.