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Nusatupe Island
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Nusatupe Island, located just offshore from Gizo, played a distinct strategic role during World War II as an observation post and secondary base. Initially utilized by Japanese forces, the island served as a lookout point to monitor Allied movements through the Blackett Strait and as a base for seaplane operations. Following the Allied advance in 1943, Nusatupe was secured and utilized as a forward outpost to support operations in the Western Solomon Islands. Its flat topography eventually made it the good location for the regional airfield that serves Gizo today. During the war, the island was part of the vital Coastwatchers network, where operatives hid to provide crucial intelligence on Japanese naval traffic. Today, Nusatupe remains the primary gateway to the Western Province, where the legacy of the war is preserved through local oral histories and occasional military artifacts found across the island.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Top sights: Seventh Day Adventist/Permanent · St. Peter's Cathedral · Gizo Harbour
- Nearby: Maru (7 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
Nusatupe Island is an island off Gizo now used as an airport. The island can be circumnavigated on a boat tour; the airport area is reserved for passengers.
Typical hours
Boat tours to the island are typically offered during daytime, best in the morning when the sea is calm. After sunset, tours are not usual.
Photography
Photograph the coastline and runway from the boat - that is the best angle. From the air (during departure) spectacular shots are possible.
Time needed
A boat circumnavigation takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Those wanting to explore the island more thoroughly - e.g. with a beach stop - should allow two hours.
Combine with
Combine the tour with a visit to Gizo town - the market and war memorials are worth seeing. A trip to the nearby Kennedy Islands is also recommended.
Getting there
The island is most easily reached by water taxi or excursion boat from Gizo. The crossing takes only about 10 to 15 minutes.
Insider tip
Book the tour through a local travel agency in Gizo - they often offer combined packages with snorkeling. Bring sunscreen and a hat as there is almost no shade on the water.
Geography
Facts
- Nusatupe served as a Japanese seaplane base prior to the Allied liberation in 1943.
- The island is situated approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) east of Gizo Town.
- The current Gizo Airport occupies the flat, cleared areas used during the war.
- Coastwatchers utilized Nusatupe to report on Japanese 'Tokyo Express' missions.
- The island's coral base provided a stable foundation for postwar aviation development.
- Nusatupe was a frequent target for Allied bombing raids during the occupation of Gizo.
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.
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Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Nusatupe Island (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Nusatupe easily accessible for tourists?
Yes, it is very close to Gizo.
Are there beaches there?
Yes, very beautiful, untouched sand beaches.
Is the island family-friendly?
Yes, good for day trips with children.
What activities are suggested?
Swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
Should you take your own food?
Yes, there is no food or water supply there.
Nusatupe Island: where is it located?
Nusatupe Island is located in Solomon Islands.
Nusatupe Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Seventh Day Adventist/Permanent, St. Peter's Cathedral, Gizo Harbour.
Nusatupe Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Nov, Dec.
Nusatupe Island: why is it worth visiting?
Nusatupe Island, located just offshore from Gizo, played a distinct strategic role during World War II as an observation post and secondary base.
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