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Kennedy Island
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Kennedy Island, locally known as Kasolo, is a small, uninhabited islet in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, located about 15 minutes by boat from Gizo. It achieved global fame in August 1943 when the US patrol boat PT-109, commanded by future US President John F. Kennedy, was rammed by a Japanese destroyer. Kennedy and his surviving crew swam to this isolated shore to evade capture and await rescue. The island has since become a powerful symbol of courage and survival and a key site in World War II military history. Geographically, it is surrounded by pristine turquoise waters and lively coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and historical tours. A small monument on the island honors the rescue mission, which was made possible by two local scouts, Biuku Gasa and Eroni Kumana, who transported a message carved into a coconut. Despite its modest size, the island remains a site of significant historical and diplomatic resonance between the United States and the Solomon Islands.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Top sights: Japanese destroyer Kuroshio · Japanese destroyer Kagerō (1938) · Japanese destroyer Oyashio
- Nearby: Kukudu (5 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
Visiting
Kennedy Island (Kasolo) is a small island near Gizo that can be visited. JFK swam here in 1943 after his PT-109 boat was sunk. The island is a historical landmark.
Typical hours
The island is freely accessible during the day. As there are no facilities, plan your visit for the morning to avoid the heat.
Photography
Photography is possible at any time on the island. Special subjects are the sandy beaches and the turquoise water surrounding the island.
Time needed
A visit to the island takes about 30 minutes to an hour. For the boat trip from Gizo, allow an additional 20-30 minutes each way.
Combine with
Combine Kennedy Island with a trip to Gizo and visiting the Gizo Market. The surrounding reefs are also excellent for snorkeling and diving.
Getting there
The island is only accessible by boat. In Gizo you can rent a boat or join an organized tour - ask at the harbor or your hotel.
Insider tip
Visit the island at low tide to see more of the coastline. Bring water and snacks as there are no shops on the island.
Geography
Facts
- The sinking of PT-109 occurred on the night of August 2, 1943.
- Kennedy swam approximately 5 kilometers to reach Kasolo island.
- The island was officially renamed Kennedy Island in honor of the president.
- Two local scouts discovered the crew and facilitated their rescue.
- The message to rescuers was famously carved into a coconut shell.
- The island is located in the Blackett Strait near the Gizo Lagoon.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kennedy Island (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can one do on Kennedy Island?
Relaxing, snorkeling, and enjoying the island's historical significance.
Is the island inhabited?
No, it is a small, uninhabited island for day trips.
Is there any infrastructure (WC/bar)?
Infrastructure is very minimal; bring everything you need.
What is the best way to get there?
By rented boat or as part of a guided tour.
Is snorkeling recommended there?
Yes, the water around the island is very clear and handy for it.
Kennedy Island: where is it located?
Kennedy Island is located in Solomon Islands.
Kennedy Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Japanese destroyer Kuroshio, Japanese destroyer Kagerō (1938), Japanese destroyer Oyashio.
Kennedy Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Nov, Dec.
Kennedy Island: why is it worth visiting?
Kennedy Island, locally known as Kasolo, is a small, uninhabited islet in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, located about 15 minutes by boat from Gizo.
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