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Russell Islands
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The Russell Islands are a cluster of islands in the Central Province of the Solomon Islands, located approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Guadalcanal. The group consists of two main islands, Pavuvu and Mbanika, along with numerous smaller islets of volcanic origin. Historically, the islands were once the site of the largest coconut plantations in the Southern Hemisphere, operated in the early 20th century by Lever Brothers (now Unilever). During World War II, they served as a major base for U.S. forces preparing for campaigns in the western Solomons. Geographically, the islands are surrounded by deep channels and coral reefs that are now renowned as world-class diving sites, with wreck diving being particularly popular. Despite their industrial past, much of the islands is now covered in secondary rainforest, supporting a diverse range of bird species.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Nearby: Visale (66 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Sep, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 29 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 |
| Rain mm | 317 | 311 | 299 | 249 | 223 | 248 | 252 | 219 | 213 | 226 | 216 | 224 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The Russell Islands are best visited from May to October when the dry season prevails and the sea is calm. During these months the underwater life along the coral walls is particularly rich.
Best time of day
Early morning often sees manta rays and turtles feeding in the upwelling nutrients. Towards evening parrotfish and other reef dwellers become active foraging for food.
Etiquette
Do not touch corals and avoid stirring up sediment with fins to avoid damaging sensitive organisms. Feeding fish is not allowed as it disrupts their natural behaviour.
What to bring
In addition to diving gear, underwater lights are recommended to illuminate the crevices of the coral walls. A dive computer helps to safely manage dive times as multiple dives per day are possible.
Getting there
The islands are accessible by boat from Honiara, the crossing takes several hours. Simple accommodations are available on the plantations, often arranged by the owners.
What to expect
Large marine creatures like manta rays do not appear on command; multiple dives at different walls increase chances. Plan at least three days to explore the main dive sites.
Geography
Facts
- Two main islands are Pavuvu and Mbanika.
- Former site of the largest coconut plantations in the South Pacific.
- Significant U.S. military staging area during World War II.
- Famous for the 'Custom Caves' dive site.
- Located approximately 40 km northwest of Guadalcanal.
- Home to the endemic Russell Islands flying fox.
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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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Russell Islands (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the Russell Islands?
Travel is usually by boat from Honiara, as there are no regular scheduled flights.
Is the area good for diving?
Yes, the islands offer world-class, untouched dive sites with fascinating marine life.
Best time to visit the islands?
The dry season from May to October features the most stable and pleasant weather.
Do I need a permit to visit?
It is advisable to check with local village elders or local tourism authorities beforehand regarding access rights.
Is there accommodation on the islands?
Accommodation is very basic and mostly available in the form of private homestays with locals.
Russell Islands: where is it located?
Russell Islands is located in Solomon Islands.
Russell Islands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Sep, Nov.
Russell Islands: why is it worth visiting?
The Russell Islands are a cluster of islands in the Central Province of the Solomon Islands, located approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Guadalcanal.
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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.
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 Island
The former capital of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate.
Tulagi
Tulagi was the former capital of the British Protectorate and is now the capital of the Central Province.
Visale
Visale is a historical Catholic mission station on the western tip of Guadalcanal, featuring a prominent church.
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Lambi
Lambi is a coastal settlement on the west coast of Guadalcanal, known for its traditional communities.
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Aruligo
Aruligo is a growing rural community northwest of Honiara, known for its agriculture.
History & landmarks
Honiara City Council
The city council's administrative building is the hub of Honiara's local government.
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Pavuvu Island
An island in the Russell group that served as a major rest and training base for the US 1st Marine Division during the Pacific War.
Banika Island
The second largest of the Russell Islands, developed into a massive Allied logistics and air base during the war.
Savo Crater
The Savo Crater forms the center of the volcanic island of Savo north of Guadalcanal.
Vilu War Museum
An impressive open-air museum on Guadalcanal featuring well-preserved WWII aircraft wrecks and memorials.
Vilu P-38 Wreck
A well-preserved P-38 Lightning wreck at the Vilu Museum, representing the aerial combat over Guadalcanal.
Bonegi II Wreck
The Bonegi II is a Japanese transport ship lying just meters from the shore.
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Buala Market
Buala Market is the economic hub of Isabel Island.
More places
Pavuvu Copra Center
Pavuvu is the largest of the Russell Islands and a historical giant of copra production.
Yandina Copra Center
Yandina in the Russell Islands is a historical center for coconut processing.
Mount Lambi
Mount Lambi is a prominent elevation in the western part of Guadalcanal.
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Lavoro Conservation Area
Lavoro protects one of the last primary rainforests in northwestern Guadalcanal.
Savo Island
A volcanic island north of Guadalcanal that gave its name to one of the worst naval defeats in US history.
Savo Island Volcano
The volcano on Savo Island is a prominent geographical landmark.
Savo Island Wrecks
The waters surrounding Savo Island are the final resting place of numerous warships sunk during the disastrous night battle of 1942.
Ironbottom Sound
The body of water between Guadalcanal and Savo Island, named for the dozens of ships sunk here.