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Ghizo Island
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Ghizo Island serves as the economic and tourism hub of the Western Province in the Solomon Islands, with Gizo town acting as the region's primary administrative center. The island is world-renowned for its spectacular scuba diving sites, most notably the wreck of the Toa Maru, a massive Japanese transport ship from World War II. Geographically, Ghizo is encircled by a constellation of small islets and spirited coral reefs that offer premier research opportunities for marine biologists. In April 2007, the island was devastated by an 8.1 magnitude earthquake and a subsequent tsunami that destroyed much of the local infrastructure and permanently altered the shoreline. Today, Ghizo has largely recovered and is celebrated for its bustling open-air market and its proximity to historical landmarks like Kennedy Island. The sustainable management of the surrounding coral ecosystems is critical for the island's future tourism and local artisanal fisheries.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Top sights: Gizo Harbour · St. Peter's Cathedral · Seventh Day Adventist/Permanent
- Nearby: Mbabanga Island (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 315 | 353 | 313 | 262 | 308 | 295 | 326 | 273 | 272 | 278 | 224 | 229 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Ghizo Island is a good year-round destination, but the best time for diving is from April to November when underwater visibility is at its peak. Heavy rains from December to March can affect conditions.
Best time of day
Early morning is convenient for dives as the water is calmest and the sun illuminates the reefs well. Late afternoon you often see turtles and rays in the shallow bays.
Etiquette
Avoid touching or disturbing marine life and use eco-friendly sunscreen. Collecting shells or corals is prohibited, and keep distance from sea turtles.
What to bring
Bring your own snorkeling or diving gear if you are sensitive to rental equipment. An underwater camera and a dry suit are also recommended.
Getting there
Ghizo Island is best accessed by flying from Honiara to Gizo airport, followed by a short boat ride. Alternatively, you can charter a boat from Guadalcanal.
What to expect
Underwater visibility can be affected by currents and sediment - wait for clear conditions before diving. Wildlife is abundant but not always immediately visible; take your time.
Geography
Facts
- Gizo is the second-largest urban center in the Solomon Islands.
- The island measures approximately 11 kilometers in length and 5 kilometers in width.
- The 2007 tsunami reached heights of over 5 meters along the Ghizo coastline.
- The Toa Maru wreck is a 140-meter long ship resting between 7 and 37 meters deep.
- The Gizo market is a regional hub for fresh seafood and traditional wood carvings.
- The island's airstrip is located on the adjacent coral islet of Nusatupe.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Ghizo Island (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Ghizo Island?
The best time is from May to November, when the weather is drier and cooler.
Are there accommodations on Ghizo Island?
Yes, Gizo has various beachfront lodges and guesthouses.
Is the island family-friendly?
It is more for adventurers, but quiet beaches offer relaxation.
How do you get to Ghizo Island?
It is best reached by a domestic flight from Honiara to Gizo.
Are there restaurants on the island?
Gizo has several local restaurants serving fresh fish.
Ghizo Island: where is it located?
Ghizo Island is located in Solomon Islands.
Ghizo Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gizo Harbour, St. Peter's Cathedral, Seventh Day Adventist/Permanent.
Ghizo Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Nov, Dec.
Ghizo Island: why is it worth visiting?
Ghizo Island serves as the economic and tourism hub of the Western Province in the Solomon Islands, with Gizo town acting as the region's primary administrative center.
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Kokumbona
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Gizo is the administrative center of the Western Province and is known for its tourism importance.
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The administrative center of the Western Province.
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Taro Island is the capital of Choiseul Province.
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Taro is the capital of Choiseul Province, located on a small island in Choiseul Bay.
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A picturesque island near Gizo, famous for its luxury resorts, tranquil lagoons, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
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Kukudu
Kukudu is a well-known Seventh-day Adventist settlement on Kolombangara Island.
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Ringgi Cove is a settlement on the west coast of Kolombangara, serving as a base for forestry operations.
History & landmarks
Honiara City Council
The city council's administrative building is the hub of Honiara's local government.
Gizo Central Market
The market in Gizo is known for its lively atmosphere and fresh fish sold directly from canoes.
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Nusatupe Island
An island just off Gizo that served as an airstrip in WWII and is now the primary airport for the Gizo region.
Kennedy Island
John F.
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A small island near Gizo where John F.
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An active volcanic island formerly known as a major regional trading hub and center for ritual headhunting culture.
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The cathedral in Gizo is a central religious landmark in the Western Province.
Fatima Statue, Gizo
The statue of Our Lady of Fatima in front of the cathedral in Gizo is a well-known religious monument in the town.
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Gizo Trade Port
Gizo is the primary commercial hub in the western Solomon Islands.
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Ferguson Passage
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Kennedy Memorial
A memorial plaque on Kasolo Island marking the spot where JFK and his crew took refuge after the sinking of PT-109.