Unravel the Treasures of the West
The Western Province is by far the most popular destination for tourists when visiting the Solomon Islands, with Gizo town being the only truly westernised tourist-oriented town in the region.
From the land to the sea, there are many activities to keep you occupied while you’re in the West. You can travel along a winding coral road that runs around the edge of the entire island, meandering between traditional thatched villages and picturesque beaches. In every direction, small deserted islands are visible, the perfect setting for picnicking and snorkelling daytrips… or even a honeymoon. Seen from Gizo Hotel’s vantage point, the islands are backed by the magnificent extinct volcano, Kolombangara.
The possibilities are endless when exploring all the wonders the Western Province has to offer. Below are some of the many activities that you can indulge in:
Culture
Gizo offers a rich, unique culture and educational visits to numerous sacred locations can be arranged. Solomon Islanders are friendly and happy to share their life and stories with visitors. To this day, local islanders are famous for producing exquisite, traditionally themed carvings from wood and stone.
History
Gizo embodies much of the Western Province’s World War II history with many well preserved American and Japanese war relics still visible on land and deep down underwater. Some of the main shops in the township of Gizo are war relics themselves, operating out of abandoned American aircraft hangers.
Diving reef and wreck sites are located conveniently close to Gizo where visibility is usually upward of 20 meters and water temperatures at 28°C. Below is a list of some of the renown spots in the world. These include:
- The famous Kennedy Island
- Japanese Transport Ship- Toa Maru
- Tokyo MARU 11
- An American Hellcat Fighter Plane
- Petaj Fighter Plane
- An American Corsair Fighter Plane
- A Japanese Float Plane
- A Japanese Zero Fighter
- Manta Point and Nusa Aghana Beach
- Secret Spot
- Joes Wall
- Olasana Island Safari Reef
- Naru Island Gap and Wall
- One Tree Island
- Hot Spot
- Yellow Corner
- Hoppa’s Garden
- Dazza’a Knob
- Tukula Pinnacle
- Big Dip
- Grand Central Station
Game fishing around Gizo continues to be something that impresses even the most experienced anglers. Marlin, Spanish Mackerel, Sailfish, Mahi-mahi, Dogtooth Tuna, Wahoo, Dorado, Bass, Yellowfin Tuna, Giant Trevally and much more abound in Gizo’s spectacular waters.
Surfing is also possible near the Gizo Hotel with the best times being between November and April. Great breaks can be found off two traditionally thatched villages on the island as well as the nearby Despretes break, Makuti Island and off the sacred Skull Island.
Kayaking in the Solomon Islands can be done just about anywhere. Be prepared for striking beauty as you paddle past coastlines and beaches. Picture sharks and turtles scurrying underneath you as you glide over turquoise worlds.
Island/Resort Hopping around the Western Province to the many resorts and eco lodges scattered across the Solomon archipelago.
Snorkelling amongst some of the Hapi Isles’ most colourful sea life and exquisite corals.
Throughout the year, the climate in the Western Province is temperate and does not often fluctuate from between 25°C and 30°C. The tropical rainforest covers lower areas of Gizo Island where exotic forms of flora and fauna are abundant, making it a popular haven for both locals and tourists alike.
The Gizo Market is wonder of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and smiles. One visit and you are hooked for life.
Birdwatching tours are available for those who don’t mind camping out and waiting to catch a glimpse of some of the country’s endemic species.
Trekking and hiking for adrenaline junkies as you journey along trails and tracks finding yourself in exciting locations with majestic views and spectacular waterfalls.
