Plizio Visual Lab
Sinking Island of Walande
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Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
Walande was once a thriving artificial island off the coast of South Malaita, now serving as a stark symbol of sea-level rise and coastal erosion. Originally constructed from coral stones by the 'saltwater people' to escape land-based conflicts, it supported a dense community for generations. In recent decades, increasing tidal surges and the disappearance of protective reefs rendered the island uninhabitable, forcing the entire population to relocate to the Malaita mainland. Today, only skeletal remains of stone walls and stilted foundations are visible above the waterline, marking where a village once stood. Walande is frequently cited in international climate discourse as one of the first Pacific communities to become environmental refugees. The relocation process has posed significant challenges to maintaining the community's traditional maritime identity and social cohesion.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Nearby: Ramasatu (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 290 | 297 | 274 | 226 | 226 | 219 | 244 | 207 | 197 | 244 | 220 | 246 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Sinking Island of Walande is now mostly submerged and can be viewed from a boat or from the shore. It serves as a stark visual reminder of sea-level rise, accessible by kayak or small boat.
Typical hours
No operating hours apply; you can view the island at any time. Best visibility is at low tide when more of the remaining structure is exposed above the water.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted, but from a boat you need a steady hand. The contrast of the sinking island against the ocean makes for powerful and thought-provoking images.
Time needed
A visit to see the island from the nearest shore takes about 30 minutes. Combine with other sights in Vona Vona Lagoon for a longer and more rewarding trip.
Combine with
Combine with a tour of Vona Vona Lagoon and its historical war wrecks. The nearby village of Walande gives firsthand stories about the impact of climate change on the community.
Getting there
Accessible by boat from the village of Walande or from local tour operators. The island is only a short distance off the shore, making it easy to reach with a small craft.
Insider tip
Visit at low tide to see more of the remaining structure above water. Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to reduce glare and enhance the details of the submerged ruins.
Geography
Facts
- An artificial island made of piled coral stone
- Abandoned due to rising sea levels and erosion
- A key case study for climate change in Melanesia
- The community relocated to the mainland of Malaita
- Remnants are a poignant reminder of lost habitats
- Historically a hub for traditional dolphin hunting
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 nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about this island?
It is a sinking settlement strongly threatened by rising sea levels.
Can I visit the ruins?
Only with local permission; the area is culturally sensitive and ecologically fragile.
How is the best way to travel there?
By boat, organized through local tour operators.
Is the place suitable for children?
No, the terrain is dangerous for children and not developed for tourism.
Are there ecological restrictions?
Yes, all waste must absolutely be taken back with you.
Sinking Island of Walande: where is it located?
Sinking Island of Walande is located in Solomon Islands.
Sinking Island of Walande: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Sinking Island of Walande: why is it worth visiting?
Walande was once a thriving artificial island off the coast of South Malaita, now serving as a stark symbol of sea-level rise and coastal erosion.
Explore with Plizio
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