
Where to Stay in Honiara
Solomon Islands
|Pop. 56K
|3 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Sven Pieren / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Central Honiara is the best neighbourhood to stay in Honiara. The bustling administrative and commercial heart of the city, with a mix of government buildings, markets, and businesses. Ideal for first-timers, culture, foodies. Budget travellers can get by on SBD 300/day.
Areas to Avoid in Honiara
Safety rated "Moderate". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Honiara | The bustling administrative and commercial heart of the city, with a mix of government buildings, markets, and businesses. | Mid-range | first-timers, culture | Generally safe during the day with usual... |
| Town Ground | A more residential and slightly quieter area adjacent to the city center, offering a glimpse of local life. | Budget | budget, families | Reasonably safe during the day, but it's... |
| White River | Located west of the city center, this area is more spread out and includes some resorts and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere. | Luxury | couples, families | Generally safe within resort grounds; tr... |
Central Honiara
Mid-rangeThe bustling administrative and commercial heart of the city, with a mix of government buildings, markets, and businesses.
Generally safe during the day with usual precautions against petty theft; exerci...
Town Ground
BudgetA more residential and slightly quieter area adjacent to the city center, offering a glimpse of local life.
Reasonably safe during the day, but it's advisable to stick to main roads and be...
White River
LuxuryLocated west of the city center, this area is more spread out and includes some resorts and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.
Generally safe within resort grounds; travel to and from the city center should ...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Honiara
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Central Honiara
The bustling administrative and commercial heart of the city, with a mix of government buildings, markets, and businesses.
Our top picks in Central Honiara
A long-standing, well-regarded hotel offering comfortable rooms and good amenities with waterfront views.
Book NowFeatures a casino and restaurant, offering a lively atmosphere and convenient location.
Book NowA reliable option with spacious rooms and a central location, often used by business travelers.
Book NowWhite River
Located west of the city center, this area is more spread out and includes some resorts and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.
Our top picks in White River
A premier hotel offering excellent facilities, including a pool, restaurant, and beautiful ocean views.
Book NowOffers beachfront bungalows with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Book NowLocated with historical significance, offering good views and comfortable accommodation.
Book NowTown Ground
A more residential and slightly quieter area adjacent to the city center, offering a glimpse of local life.
Our top picks in Town Ground
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in Honiara
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
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.
Things to Do in Honiara
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Honiara tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
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.
Where to Stay in Honiara
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Central Honiara
The bustling administrative and commercial heart of the city, with a mix of government buildings, markets, and businesses.
Stay in Town Ground
A more residential and slightly quieter area adjacent to the city center, offering a glimpse of local life.
Stay in White River
Located west of the city center, this area is more spread out and includes some resorts and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Honiara
Be the first to list your property in Honiara. Reach thousands of travellers looking for accommodation, with no commissions.
List Your PropertySafety 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.
Compare hotel deals in Honiara
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Travel Insurance for Honiara
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Solomon Islands
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Solomon Islands and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting 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.
Rent a Car in Honiara
Compare prices from top rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jul, Aug, Sep
Plan Your Perfect Honiara Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.
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 thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Found your hotel in Honiara?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privรฉ. Most people save 14-23%.
Compare hotel deals in Honiara
Search thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
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?
Get the Full Honiara Guide
Neighbourhood picks, hidden gems, and deals for Honiara straight to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Honiara Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel




