Bonegi Beach: A Hidden Paradise in the Solomon Islands

• HelloHalo
  [ha-loh]
• GoodbyeOro
  [oh-roh]
• YesIo
  [ee-oh]
• NoTalika
  [ta-lee-ka]
• Please/You're welcomeTangio
  [tan-gee-oh]
• Thank youTankiu
  [tan-kyoo]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Olsem wanem yu?
  [ol-sem wah-nem yoo]
• Fine. And you?Bagud. Na yu?
  [bah-good. nah yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yoo sa-veh tohk-tohk long in-glish]
• I don't understandMi no save sim
  [mee noh sa-veh seem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laek lukim menu, plis
  [mee lie-eh-k loo-keem meh-noo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no save kaikai mit
  [mee noh sa-veh kai-kai meet]
• Cheers!Ea!
  [eh-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laek fo pe, plis
  [mee lie-eh-k foh peh, plees]

• Help!Helpem mi!
  [help-em mee]
• Go away!Go we!
  [goh weh]
• Call the Police!Kolem Polis!
  [koh-lehm poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolem dokta!
  [koh-lehm dohk-tah]
• I'm lostMi las
  [mee lahs]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi laek fo baem...
  [mee lie-eh-k foh bah-em]
• I'm just lookingMi juks lukim
  [mee juhks loo-keem]
• How much is it?Hao mo taem?
  [hah-oh moh tah-em]
• That's too expensiveIu long taem
  [ee-oo long tah-em]
• Can you lower the price?Yu save fo daonim prais?
  [yoo sa-veh foh dah-o-neem prah-is]

• What time is it?Hao mo taem nao?
  [hah-oh moh tah-em now]
• It's one o'clockIu taem wan
  [ee-oo tah-em wahn]
• Half past (10)Tumas (10)
  [too-mahs (10)]
• MorningMoning
  [moh-neeng]
• AfternoonApunun
  [ah-poo-noon]
• EveningIvinin
  [ee-vee-neen]
• YesterdayDei we
  [deh-ee weh]
• TodayDei
  [deh-ee]
• TomorrowTumora
  [too-moh-rah]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fah-eve]
• 6Siks
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
• 8Eit
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [tehn]

• Where's a/the...?Iu we...?
  [ee-oo weh]
• What's the address?Hao mo adres em?
  [hah-oh moh ah-dres em]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu save fo soemim (long map)?
  [yoo sa-veh foh soh-em-eem long map]
• When's the next (bus)?Hao mo taem bus hemi kam?
  [hah-oh moh tah-em bus heh-mee kahm]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht long]

Bonegi Beach is most renowned for its World War II shipwrecks, which are remnants of the fierce battles fought in the Solomon Islands. The beach is home to the wrecks of two Japanese transport ships, the Hirokawa Maru and the Kinugawa Maru, both of which were sunk by Allied forces in 1942. These wrecks now lie close to the shore and have become popular dive sites, offering a haunting glimpse into the past and a thriving marine habitat.

The waters off Bonegi Beach played a significant role during the Battle of Guadalcanal, a pivotal series of engagements between Allied and Japanese forces from August 1942 to February 1943. This battle marked a turning point in the Pacific Theater of World War II. The coastline of Bonegi Beach witnessed numerous naval skirmishes and air raids, which left a lasting impact on the region's history and are commemorated by the sunken war relics.

Bonegi Beach is not only a site of historical importance but also holds cultural significance for the local Solomon Islander communities. The beach and its surrounding areas are rich in local lore and traditions. For generations, the indigenous people have fished, gathered, and celebrated important events along this coastline, making it a cornerstone of their cultural heritage.

After World War II, Bonegi Beach underwent a period of reclamation and transformation. The once war-torn area began to attract visitors interested in its historical shipwrecks and natural beauty. Over the years, Bonegi Beach has developed into a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine waters, rich marine life, and the eerie, yet captivating, shipwrecks that lie just offshore.

Bonegi Beach is a haven for marine biodiversity. The shipwrecks have become artificial reefs, teeming with colorful corals and a variety of marine species. This unique underwater ecosystem attracts divers and snorkelers from around the world, who come to explore the vibrant sea life that has made these historic wrecks their home.

Bonegi Beach is located on the northern coast of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, approximately 12 kilometers from Honiara, the capital city. Visitors can fly into Honiara International Airport (HIR), which receives international flights from major cities like Brisbane and Port Moresby. From the airport, Bonegi Beach can be reached by taxi or rental car, with the drive taking around 20-30 minutes via the Kukum Highway.

Transportation options to Bonegi Beach include taxis, rental cars, and organized tours. Taxis are readily available in Honiara and can be hired for a reasonable fare. If you prefer more flexibility, rental cars are available from several agencies in Honiara. Organized tours often include transportation to and from Bonegi Beach, as well as other nearby attractions. Public buses also travel the route along the Kukum Highway, but may not be as convenient for tourists.

The official currency of the Solomon Islands is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). While some larger establishments in Honiara accept credit cards, it is recommended to carry sufficient cash for purchases, especially when visiting areas like Bonegi Beach. ATMs are available in Honiara, but may not be found in more remote locations. It is advisable to exchange money at banks or authorized exchange services in the capital.

Bonegi Beach is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when swimming or snorkeling, as currents can be strong. While Honiara has areas with higher crime rates, particularly at night, Bonegi Beach itself is considered relatively safe. Always stay aware of your surroundings and avoid traveling alone after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest medical facilities are in Honiara, including the National Referral Hospital. It is wise to carry a basic first aid kit and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, pharmacies in Honiara provide over-the-counter medications. Always inform someone of your plans and expected return time when venturing out.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or cultural sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or village areas, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'halo' (hello). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Bonegi Beach like a local, visit early in the morning when the beach is less crowded and the water is calm. Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the WWII shipwrecks just offshore. Engage with locals who often visit the beach for picnics and social gatherings; they can provide insights into the area's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to try fresh seafood from local vendors.