Why visit
Honiara is Solomon Islands' capital on Guadalcanal, shaped by harbor life, markets, World War II history, and access to reefs and island routes. It is practical, humid, and historically significant.
How to use this result
Use it as a capital-city prompt
Honiara is useful when you want a city-level starting point in Solomon Islands. Check whether the capital is the best arrival city, a practical transfer point, or mainly a geography and planning reference.
Check practical trip fit
Before planning around Honiara, compare airport access, local transport, time zone, neighborhood choices, weather, safety guidance, and whether another city in Solomon Islands better matches the trip style.
Honiara at a glance
City population
56k
Elevation
49 m
161 ft
Time zone
UTC+11
Pacific/Guadalcanal
Airport
HIR
Honiara International Airport
Solomon Islands at a glance
Country center
-8.0°, 159.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
28,896 km²
11,157 mi²
Country population
740k
26/km²
Subregion
Melanesia
Currency
Solomon Islands dollar ($)
SBD
Dial
+677
Language
English
Demonym
Solomon Islander
Internet
.sb
UN
Member state
ISO code
SB / SLB
Where in the world
-8.0° - 159.0°
Solomon Islands
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Honiara grew after World War II around the former US military base area on Guadalcanal.
- The city is a gateway to Guadalcanal battlefield sites and nearby reef trips.
- Honiara stands on the WWII battlefield of Guadalcanal; the waters offshore are called Iron Bottom Sound for the ships sunk there.
- The Solomon Islands was the site of the pivotal WWII Battle of Guadalcanal (1942-43): the US Navy's first major Pacific offensive.
- The country has over 900 islands: most are uninhabited and heavily forested.
Traveler notes
- World War II battle sites around Guadalcanal are central to the area
- Central Market is the strongest everyday city stop
- Bonegi beaches are known for wreck diving and snorkeling nearby
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Honiara
What currency is used in Honiara?
Honiara uses the Solomon Islands dollar ($), ISO code SBD.
What languages are spoken in Solomon Islands?
The primary language is English.
What is the international calling code for Solomon Islands?
The calling code is +677.
When is the best time to visit Honiara?
May–Oct. Check current weather and local events before booking.
What airport serves Honiara?
Honiara International Airport (IATA: HIR).
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