Poha Cave

Poha Cave, also known as Vatuluma Posovi, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Solomon Islands, located in the northwest of Guadalcanal. This natural limestone cave served as a vital shelter and dwelling for the region's early inhabitants over several millennia. Extensive excavations have revealed occupation layers dating back as far as 6,000 years, providing crucial insights into the prehistoric cultural development of the archipelago. Of particular importance are the numerous petroglyphs and rock engravings found on the cave walls, depicting a variety of symbols, human faces, and complex geometric patterns. These artworks reflect the spiritual and cultural importance of the site to the ancestors of the modern Melanesian people. Along with stone tools, archaeologists discovered shell middens and animal remains that illuminate the dietary habits of the early settlers. During World War II, the cave provided sanctuary for the local population seeking refuge from air raids and ground combat between Japanese and Allied forces. Today, Poha Cave is protected as a major cultural heritage site and remains a focal point for scientific research and education.

Nearby cities

Honiara

The capital of the Solomon Islands is located on the north coast of Guadalcanal.

Point Cruz Business District

This district in Honiara is the commercial heart of the country.

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Kokumbona

A former village west of Honiara that served as the headquarters for the Japanese 17th Army during the Guadalcanal campaign.

Lungga

Lungga is an industrial and residential settlement on the eastern edge of Honiara, located by the river of the same name.

Auki Market Center

Auki is the economic center of Malaita Province.

Auki

Auki is the capital of Malaita Province and one of the largest towns in the country.

Buala

Buala is the capital of Isabel Province, located on the Maringe Lagoon.

A-Tulagi

The surrounding area of Tulagi includes several small island settlements in the Central Province.

Tulagi

Tulagi was the former capital of the British Protectorate and is now the capital of the Central Province.

Tulagi Island

The former capital of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate.

History & landmarks

Honiara City Council

The city council's administrative building is the hub of Honiara's local government.

Bonegi II Wreck

The Bonegi II is a Japanese transport ship lying just meters from the shore.

Matanikau Falls

A spectacular waterfall inland from Honiara whose limestone caves served as a hideout for Japanese troops during the war.

Vilu P-38 Wreck

A well-preserved P-38 Lightning wreck at the Vilu Museum, representing the aerial combat over Guadalcanal.

Mataniko Falls

These spectacular falls tumble into a canyon near Honiara.

Point Cruz Yacht Club

The Yacht Club is a social landmark of Honiara located at the harbor.

All Saints School, Honiara

This historic school is closely linked to the Anglican Church.

Point Cruz

A small peninsula in central Honiara.

More places

White River

A watercourse on the western outskirts of Honiara that saw significant action during the Japanese withdrawal in early 1943.

Bonegi Beach

A popular beach west of Honiara, famous for two large Japanese shipwrecks resting in shallow water just offshore.

Matanikau River

A river west of Honiara that formed the frontline for months.

Vilu War Museum

An open-air museum west of Honiara featuring an impressive collection of WWII aircraft wrecks, artillery, and memorials.

US War Memorial

This memorial on Skyline Ridge commemorates the Battle of Guadalcanal.

Yacht Club Pier

The Yacht Club pier is a well-known landmark in Point Cruz harbor.

Point Cruz Plaque

This commemorative plaque at the Yacht Club marks the historical significance of Point Cruz during the naval battles of 1942.

Honiara Port

This is the primary international maritime port of the Solomon Islands at Point Cruz.