Tucked away in the South Pacific Ocean is a stunning group of islands known as The Solomon Islands, home to pristine waters and untouched landscapes like no other. One thousand sunny islands surrounded by crystal clear waters, fringed with tropical reefs home to thousands of species of fish and coral; a treasure trove that now remains well below the surface untouched by mankind.
A Tropical Wonderland
The Solomon Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands, all with their own special something. The islands boast arguably the most beautiful beaches in the world — playas with soft white sand and translucent turquoise waters fringed by gentle jungle. In these scenic spots, visitors can bask in the sun and swim, snorkel dive or even partake in other water sports.
Apart from the beaches, tip over and you will be presented with lush rainforests cascading waterfalls and rugged mountains of Solomon Islands. One can also go hiking and trekking in these untouched vegetation to experience various rare species of flora & fauna, even having some the opportunity if spotting endemic bird species or exotic orchids.
Discover the Historical and Cultural Wonders
Home to a long, complex history of settlement that spans thousands of years; the Solomon Islands are an historical gem. The archipelago was one of the cultural cross-roads in Pacific Island cultures where people shared trade goods and iconography. From WWII battlefields to old archaeological ruins, visitors can explore these places and know more about the past of the islands provided they visit for longer.
The Solomon Islands also boasts a unique and rich culture. The tribes of the indigenous people known as Melanesians have held on to their traditional customs, languages and arts. Local ceremonies, music and dance performances are at the service of visitors who wish to get a deeper sense of island's way of life.
A Marine Lover's Dream
The marine life in the Solomon Islands is absolutely phenomenal. There is (of course a lot) of coral reefs surrounding the islands, full with live fish and turtles… as such. It is a haven for divers and snorkelers to discover underwater caves, shipwrecks and reefs with rainbow hued coral gardens.
There is also big-game fishing in the Solomon Islands. Here anglers can try and land a marlin, tuna or other big ticket item.
A Sustainable Paradise
A very special mention to the Solomon Islands on maintaining their environmental/wildlife biodiversity combined with a pragmatic sustainable tourism focus. The government and local communities have formed partnerships to safeguard the island's ecosystems, encourage sustainable tourism operations, as well as ensure benefits trickle down into livelihoods of local people.
In summary, the Solomon Islands is a mecca for ecotourism and nature tourism that you won't get in more well populated areas of surrounding Australia (such as Queensland). Blessed with so much natural beauty, an incredibly rich cultural heritage and simply some of the best marine life that you can ever hope to encounter – The Solomons (as they are affectionately known) is a place where getting back to basics underneath swaying coconut trees seems more normal than waking up each day in part of such mass confusion.
