Skyline Memorial View

The Skyline Memorial View on Mount Austen provides one of the most significant panoramic vistas over Honiara and the historic waters of Ironbottom Sound. During World War II, this ridgeline was a critically contested strategic position, as it overlooked the vital Henderson Field airstrip. From late 1942 into early 1943, it was the site of brutal combat as U.S. forces sought to dislodge deeply entrenched Japanese defenders from fortified positions, most notably the stronghold known as 'The Gifu'. The memorial at the summit serves as a place of solemn remembrance for the thousands of lives lost on both sides during the grueling campaign. From this vantage point, visitors can clearly see the geography of the battlefield, stretching from the northern landing beaches to the distant islands of Savo and Florida. Today, the site provides a peaceful atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to its violent history, featuring plaques that explain the tactical maneuvers of the surrounding terrain. It is considered an essential stop for anyone wishing to understand the scale and difficulty of the ground war on Guadalcanal.

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.

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Solomon Islands Parliament Building

The distinctive cone-shaped building in Honiara was completed in 1993 with US assistance.

Mbokonavera Market

This local market in a residential area of Honiara is an authentic landmark of daily life.

National Parliament Library

The library is part of the parliament complex and houses key national documents.

Honiara Public Library

The public library in the heart of Honiara is a vital cultural and educational landmark.

All Saints School, Honiara

This historic school is closely linked to the Anglican Church.

Honiara Central Market

Honiara's bustling marketplace located at the historic Point Cruz area, serving as the economic heart of the city.

Point Cruz

A small peninsula in central Honiara.

More places

Skyline Ridge

A ridge overlooking Honiara, home to the US Guadalcanal Memorial.

Solomon Peace Memorial Park

This park in Honiara is dedicated to peace and the memory of all victims of WWII.

St. Barnabas Cathedral

This Anglican cathedral in Honiara is known for its architecture and wooden carvings.

National Museum of Solomon Islands

Opened in 1969 in Honiara, this museum displays cultural, historical, and archaeological exhibits.

Holy Cross Cathedral

The Catholic cathedral towers on a hill over Honiara and is a prominent landmark.

Bishop Brosnahan Memorial

This memorial honors the first Catholic Bishop of Honiara.

All Saints Church, Honiara

The Anglican church in the city center is a significant religious gathering place.

Heritage Park Honiara

Heritage Park is a central landmark in Honiara, blending modern hotel architecture with a site of historical importance.