Gizo, Solomon Islands Travel Guide

Discover Gizo, the vibrant capital of the Western Province in Solomon Islands, where pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and underwater adventures await.

Gizo, the bustling capital of the Western Province in the Solomon Islands, is a gem waiting to be explored. This small but vibrant town is nestled on Ghizo Island and serves as a gateway to some of the region's most stunning natural attractions, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. Known for its friendly locals and rich cultural heritage, Gizo offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The town itself is a charming mix of traditional and modern influences. You can wander through the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up handcrafted souvenirs, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many local eateries. The nearby Kennedy Island, named after President John F. Kennedy, who was stranded here during World War II, adds a touch of historical intrigue to your visit. For adventure seekers, Gizo is a paradise. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, making it a top destination for diving and snorkeling. Renowned dive sites such as the Toa Maru wreck and the Grand Central Station are just a short boat ride away, offering unforgettable underwater experiences. If you prefer staying above water, kayaking and island-hopping tours are popular activities that allow you to explore the beauty of the Solomon Islands at your own pace.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gizo.

Visit the local market early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique handcrafted items.
Carry cash as many small businesses and market vendors do not accept credit cards.
Hire a local guide for diving and snorkeling trips to explore the best underwater spots safely.
Try the local seafood dishes, especially the freshly caught fish and lobster.
Respect local customs and traditions, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Explore Gizo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Gizo

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Dive Gizo

Discover the underwater wonders of Gizo at Dive Gizo, your premier dive shop for unforgettable marine adventures in the Solomon Islands.

4.6

WWII Museum

Discover the powerful stories of World War II at the WWII Museum in Munda, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that bring history to life.

5.0

Ghizo Island

Experience the pristine beauty and vibrant culture of Ghizo Island, a tropical paradise in the Solomon Islands that offers adventure and relaxation.

4.2

Myles Falls

Experience the serene beauty of Myles Falls in Ringgi, a stunning tourist attraction surrounded by lush nature and rich local culture.

3.5

Best landmarks in Gizo

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Best Landmarks

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Fatboys Resort

Discover tranquility and adventure at Fatboys Resort, Gizo's premier destination for relaxation, dining, and vibrant local culture.

4.6

Solomon Scouts & Coastwatchers Monument

Explore the Solomon Scouts & Coastwatchers Monument, a historical landmark in Honiara honoring local heroes of WWII amidst stunning tropical landscapes.

3.9

Solomon Islands National Museum

Explore the Solomon Islands National Museum for a comprehensive insight into the vibrant cultures and histories of the Solomon Islands.

4.0

Dive Gizo

Explore the underwater beauty of Gizo with Dive Gizo, your gateway to exhilarating dive adventures and vibrant marine life.

4.6

Best restaurants in Gizo

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Coral Sea Resort & Casino

Discover the perfect blend of luxury and excitement at Coral Sea Resort & Casino in Honiara – where unforgettable experiences await.

4.1

Tenkai Sushi Cafe

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Tenkai Sushi Cafe in Honiara - where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.

4.3

Fatboys Resort

Discover the enchanting beauty of Gizo at Fatboys Resort – where relaxation meets adventure amidst tropical paradise.

4.6

Mr Grill Fast Food & Noodle Haus

Experience delectable fast food and authentic noodle dishes at Mr Grill Fast Food & Noodle Haus in Honiara - where taste meets tradition.

4.2

Best bars in Gizo

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Fatboys Resort

Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Gizo at Fatboys Resort, where relaxation meets adventure in paradise.

4.6

Dive Gizo

Discover the vibrant underwater life of the Solomon Islands at Dive Gizo, your gateway to an unforgettable diving experience.

4.6

Gizo Hotel

Discover the serene charm of Gizo Hotel, a perfect blend of comfort and local culture in the beautiful Solomon Islands.

4.1

Imagination Island Coral Reef Resort

Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life at Imagination Island Coral Reef Resort in Gizo, a perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Gizo

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Fatboys Resort

Discover the beauty of Gizo at Fatboys Resort, your ultimate tropical getaway with stunning ocean views and exquisite dining experiences.

4.5

Dive Gizo

Discover the vibrant underwater world at Dive Gizo, the premier dive shop in the Solomon Islands offering unforgettable diving experiences.

4.6

Gizo Hotel

Discover Gizo Hotel: Your serene getaway in the Solomon Islands, blending comfort, stunning views, and rich local culture.

4.1

Gizo Waterfront

Experience the flavors of Gizo at Gizo Waterfront, where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.1

Best shops in Gizo

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Best Shops

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Dive Gizo

Explore the breathtaking dive sites of Gizo with Dive Gizo, your gateway to the underwater wonders of the Solomon Islands.

4.6

Imagination Island Coral Reef Resort

Experience the beauty of Gizo at Imagination Island Coral Reef Resort, where adventure meets relaxation in a tropical paradise.

4.6

Bulk Shop

Discover the Best Local Products at Bulk Shop, Honiara's One-Stop Grocery Destination.

4.7

Noro Market

Discover the heart of Noro at Noro Market, where local culture, fresh produce, and handmade crafts come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

2.9

Explore Gizo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Gizo, mapped for you.

Gizo Essentials

Gizo is accessible primarily by air and sea. The closest international gateway is Honiara International Airport (HIR) in the capital city of Honiara. From Honiara, you can catch a domestic flight to Gizo's Nusatupe Airport (GZO), operated by Solomon Airlines. The flight takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can travel by sea using public ferries or private boat charters from Honiara, although this journey can take much longer, ranging from 12 to 24 hours depending on sea conditions.
Gizo is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the surrounding areas, local taxis are available and relatively inexpensive. Boat taxis are also a common mode of transport for traveling between islands. If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car or a scooter from local rental agencies. Be aware that roads can be uneven and driving conditions may be challenging for those unfamiliar with the area.
The official currency in the Solomon Islands is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Gizo, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Honiara to ensure you have enough funds for your stay.
Gizo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Gizo does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. Gizo has a local police station and a hospital that can handle medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are local pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering a church or religious site. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Don't raise your voice or behave aggressively. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A simple 'hello' or 'good morning' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Gizo like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Solomon Islands goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby islands and coral reefs, which offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. For a unique experience, visit during one of the local festivals to witness traditional music, dance, and customs.

When is the best time to visit Gizo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Gizo

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Gizo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAllo
  [AH-loh]
- GoodbyeKwanara
  [kwah-NAH-rah]
- YesAe
  [AY]
- NoEi
  [AY]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
- Thank youTangio
  [TANG-ee-oh]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [SOH-ree]
- How are you?Hao hemi yu?
  [hao HEH-mee yoo]
- Fine. And you?Nais. Na yu?
  [NAH-ees. nah yoo]
- Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yoo SAH-vey tohk-tohk lawng ING-lish]
- I don't understandMi no save undastanem
  [mee noh SAH-vey oon-dah-stah-nehm]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laekem lukim menyu, plis
  [mee LY-kem LOO-keem MEH-nyoo, plees]
- I don't eat meatMi no kaik kaikai bilong han
  [mee noh KAH-ee-kah-ee BEE-lawng hahn]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi laekem pai, plis
  [mee LY-kem pie, plees]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go awe!
  [goh AH-weh]
- Call the Police!Kole Polis!
  [KOH-leh POH-liss]
- Call a doctor!Kole dokta!
  [KOH-leh DOHK-tah]
- I'm lostMi lusim
  [mee LOO-seem]
- I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]
- I'd like to buy...Mi laekem baim...
  [mee LY-kem bai-eem]
- I'm just lookingMi jes lukluk
  [mee jess LOOK-look]
- How much is it?Hao moa?
  [hao moh-ah]
- That's too expensiveIu tumas espensiv
  [yoo TOO-mahs ehs-PEHN-seev]
- Can you lower the price?Yu save fo daunim praes?
  [yoo SAH-vey foh DOWN-eem PRICE?]
- What time is it?Hao taem nao?
  [hao tah-em now]
- It's one o'clockEm wan o'klok
  [em WAHN oh-KLOHK]
- Half past (10)Long haf 10
  [lawng hahf ten]
- MorningMonin
  [MOH-neen]
- AfternoonAftanun
  [ahf-tah-NOON]
- EveningIvinin
  [ee-VEE-neen]
- YesterdayIstade
  [ees-TAH-deh]
- TodayTede
  [TEH-deh]
- TomorrowTumoro
  [too-MOH-roh]
- 1Wan
  [wahn]
- 2Tu
  [too]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Foa
  [foh-ah]
- 5Faiv
  [fah-eev]
- 6Sikis
  [SEE-kees]
- 7Seven
  [SEH-vehn]
- 8Eit
  [ayt]
- 9Nain
  [nah-een]
- 10Ten
  [tehn]
- Where's a/the...?Wara hemi ...?
  [WAH-rah HEH-mee]
- What's the address?Hao nom nomas?
  [hao nohm NOH-mahs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu save fo soem mi (long map)?
  [yoo sah-vey foh SOH-em mee]
- When's the next (bus)?Hao taem bus i go kam?
  [hao tah-em boos ee goh kahm]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht lohng]

History of Gizo

Before European contact, Gizo and its surrounding islands were inhabited by Melanesian people. These early settlers lived in small, self-sufficient communities, practicing subsistence farming and fishing. They had rich oral traditions, intricate woodcarvings, and unique customs that defined their way of life.
In the late 16th century, Spanish explorers were among the first Europeans to chart the Solomon Islands. Álvaro de Mendaña y Neira, a notable Spanish navigator, led expeditions in 1568 and 1595. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that European interest in the islands surged, primarily for trade and missionary work.
The Solomon Islands became a British protectorate in 1893. Gizo, with its strategic location, grew in importance as a trading post and administrative center. The British established infrastructure, including roads and government buildings, influencing the local economy and way of life. Missionaries also arrived, introducing Christianity which gradually took root in the local culture.
Gizo played a significant role during World War II. The island was occupied by Japanese forces but later became a key battleground for Allied forces during the Pacific campaign. The waters around Gizo saw numerous naval battles, including the famous sinking of the PT-109 boat commanded by future U.S. President John F. Kennedy. The remnants of war, such as sunken ships and aircraft, now serve as popular diving sites.
After World War II, Gizo slowly rebuilt its infrastructure. The town became a hub for fishing, logging, and copra production. The local government invested in education and healthcare, improving the quality of life for its residents. Gizo's natural beauty and rich history began attracting tourists, further boosting the local economy.
Today, Gizo is a vibrant town that blends tradition with modernity. It serves as the capital of the Western Province and is known for its bustling market, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Gizo continues to thrive as a center for tourism, offering visitors a chance to explore its historical sites, coral reefs, and lush forests.