Plizio Visual Lab
Santa Ana Spirit Houses
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Spirit Houses of Santa Ana, locally known as Owaraha, are among the most significant examples of traditional Melanesian ritual architecture. Known as Awa-awa, these structures serve as sacred repositories for the bones of ancestors and high-ranking chiefs, acting as a physical link to the spirit realm. They are characterized by elaborate wood carvings depicting powerful totems such as sharks, dolphins, and frigate birds, which are central to the island's mythological beliefs. The architectural design involves massive timber pillars supporting a steep thatched roof, often constructed without the use of metal nails. Beyond their role as mortuary houses, they function as social and ceremonial hubs for men, where clan laws are discussed and initiation rites are performed. Despite the spread of modern influences, the people of Santa Ana continue to maintain these houses as vital symbols of their cultural heritage and identity. Each house is a unique masterpiece of indigenous art, reflecting centuries of oral history and religious tradition.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Nearby: Kirakira Trade Center (71 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 273 | 257 | 246 | 220 | 193 | 191 | 176 | 132 | 163 | 199 | 194 | 209 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Santa Ana Spirit Houses are typically accessible during daytime, but entry into the sacred inner spaces often requires permission from local guides. Visitors should behave respectfully and follow the traditional rules of the community.
Typical hours
Since there are no fixed opening hours, the visit should be arranged with a knowledgeable local guide. Typically the houses are accessible during the morning and early afternoon, but this depends on local conditions.
Photography
Photography inside the spirit houses may be restricted or forbidden as the relics are considered sacred. Exterior shots are usually allowed, but ask for permission first to respect local customs.
Time needed
A visit to the spirit houses typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the depth of the guide's explanations. Allow extra time for getting to and from the village, often on foot or by boat.
Combine with
Combine the visit with other cultural sites on Santa Ana, such as traditional villages and craft markets. A trip to nearby beaches or coral reefs also gives a varied day out.
Getting there
Santa Ana Island is best reached by local boat from Makira Island or Honiara. On site, villagers often organize guided tours to the spirit houses - ask around after docking.
Insider tip
Bring a small gift or donation for the village community to show your appreciation. Local scarves or cloths are welcome - avoid clothing that might be seen as disrespectful.
Geography
Facts
- Locally referred to as Awa-awa in the indigenous dialect
- Used as mortuary houses for the skeletal remains of chiefs
- Features intricate carvings of sharks as protector spirits
- Traditional construction relies on lashings instead of nails
- Served as the primary site for male initiation ceremonies
- Located on the island of Owaraha (Santa Ana)
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 Santa Ana Spirit Houses (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you enter the Santa Ana spirit houses?
Entry is usually restricted to culturally authorized individuals; please ask local permission before approaching.
How long does a visit to the site take?
Plan for about 1 to 2 hours for a respectful viewing of the cultural structures.
Is photography allowed at the spirit houses?
Do not photograph without prior permission, as these sites are considered sacred.
Are there guided tours to the spirit houses?
Local guides often offer tours that explain the cultural context of these sites.
What is the best time to visit?
The dry season between May and October features the most pleasant weather conditions.
Santa Ana Spirit Houses: where is it located?
Santa Ana Spirit Houses is located in Solomon Islands.
Santa Ana Spirit Houses: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Santa Ana Spirit Houses: why is it worth visiting?
The Spirit Houses of Santa Ana, locally known as Owaraha, are among the most significant examples of traditional Melanesian ritual architecture.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Oceania
More places in Solomon Islands →
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.
🗺️
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.
Kirakira Trade Center
Kirakira is the administrative capital of Makira-Ulawa Province.
Kirakira
Kirakira is the capital of the Makira-Ulawa 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.
A-Tulagi
The surrounding area of Tulagi includes several small island settlements in the Central Province.
🗺️
Afio
Afio is a significant settlement located at the Maramasike Passage in southern Malaita.
🗺️
Ramasatu
Ramasatu is a settlement in South Malaita, known for its strong community and agriculture.
🗺️
Rohinari
Rohinari is a Catholic mission station and settlement located in the south of Malaita Island.
🗺️
Marau Fisheries Hub
Marau Sound at the eastern tip of Guadalcanal is a center for the trade of seafood.
History & landmarks
Honiara City Council
The city council's administrative building is the hub of Honiara's local government.
Traditional Custom House
The 'Custom House' on Santa Ana is a ritual building rich in carvings and cultural significance.
🗺️
Sinking Island of Walande
Walande is an artificial island that has almost entirely disappeared due to climate change.
Fanalei Traditional Village
Fanalei is famous for traditional dolphin hunting and the use of dolphin teeth as currency.
🗺️
East Rennell (Lake Tengano)
East Rennell is a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses the largest inland lake in the South Pacific.
🗺️
Kwaio District
A region on Malaita known for its historic resistance to colonial rule and its strictly maintained traditional culture.
Nature
Santa Ana Lake
Lake Wari-Qalo on Santa Ana island is a rare freshwater lake of volcanic origin.
Mount Gower
Mount Gower is the highest point on Makira Island, formerly San Cristobal.
🗺️
Ugi Island
Ugi Island is known for its high density of endemic species, particularly birds and reptiles.
🗺️
Mount Namarakao
Mount Namarakao is a significant peak on Makira Island.
🗺️
Mount Galau
Mount Galau is the highest elevation on Malaita Island, located in its south-central region.
🗺️
Lauvi Lagoon
Lauvi Lagoon on Guadalcanal is one of the island's largest wetlands, rich in waterfowl species.
Lake Te Nggano
This is the largest inland lake in the South Pacific, located on Rennell Island.
More places
Kirakira Port
Kirakira Port is the gateway to Makira-Ulawa Province.
🗺️
Bauro Highlands
This rugged highland area on Makira Island hosts dense rainforests and many endemic bird species.
🗺️
Pamua Ruins
An archaeological site on Makira (San Cristobal) containing evidence of a possible 16th-century Spanish settlement.
🗺️
Makira Natural Park
This park protects the Bauro Highlands forests, famous for their high number of endemic bird species.
🗺️
Mount Nasuha
Mount Nasuha is one of the significant peaks in southern Malaita.
East Rennell
The UNESCO World Heritage site of East Rennell includes Lake Te Nggano, the largest inland lake in the Pacific.