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Viru Harbour
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Viru Harbour is located on the southern coast of New Georgia Island in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, functioning as a deeply recessed natural harbor of immense strategic value. The harbor is almost entirely enclosed by steep limestone cliffs and dense jungle, providing a well-suited concealment for maritime vessels. During World War II, Japanese forces utilized Viru Harbour as a supply base until it was captured by US Marines in July 1943 following a daring overland and amphibious operation. Today, the settlement of Viru serves as a hub for local forestry and fishing, with the sheltered anchorage remaining the vital link to the outside world. The harbor's waters are noted for their significant depth and surrounding coral gardens, making it a potential site for niche dive tourism. The area's history is defined by the resilience of the local people, who have navigated through both colonial-era exploitation and the destruction of total war.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Nearby: Seghe (16 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 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 |
| Rain mm | 282 | 307 | 284 | 219 | 212 | 224 | 249 | 203 | 207 | 213 | 198 | 214 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Viru Harbour on New Georgia is a natural deep-water harbour, playing an important role in the local economy. It serves as a stopover for fishing boats and small freighters transporting goods to the surrounding islands.
Visiting
The harbour is publicly accessible and used by the local population. Visitors can enter the wharf and watch the boats and the bustling activity on the water.
Where to view it
From Viru village there is a direct view of the bay and the ships entering and leaving. The surrounding hills also offer an excellent viewpoint over the entire harbour.
Local products
At the harbour, mainly fish and agricultural products such as copra from surrounding villages are transhipped. At the small market in Viru, visitors can buy fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Active season
The harbour is active year-round, with peak periods during the harvest season of copra and fish from May to October. Then more ships dock to pick up the goods.
Nearby
A visit to the harbour can be combined with a trip to the traditional logging villages inland. A canoe tour in the nearby mangrove forests is also a relaxing combination.
Geography
Facts
- The capture of Viru Harbour in July 1943 was a key objective of the New Georgia Campaign.
- The harbor entrance is so narrow between high cliffs that it is nearly invisible from the open sea.
- Japanese coastal defense guns were stationed on the cliffs overlooking the harbor during the war.
- Viru currently functions as a major transit point for logs harvested from the New Georgia interior.
- The nearby Tetepare Channel separates New Georgia from the conservation jewel of Tetepare Island.
- Local oral histories still recount the logistical support provided by scouts during the 1943 invasion.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Viru Harbour (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Viru Harbour historically interesting?
It was a significant natural harbor during the war.
Can one still see remains today?
Yes, partially relics can still be found in the area.
Is Viru Harbour developed for tourism?
No, it is a rather remote and quiet place.
When is the best time to visit?
In the drier months boat trips are safest.
What should I definitely bring along?
Own supplies, mosquito net, and good equipment.
Viru Harbour: where is it located?
Viru Harbour is located in Solomon Islands.
Viru Harbour: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Sep, Nov.
Viru Harbour: why is it worth visiting?
Viru Harbour is located on the southern coast of New Georgia Island in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, functioning as a deeply recessed natural harbor of immense strategic value.
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Viru Harbor
A deep natural harbor on New Georgia captured by US Marines in July 1943 during a difficult overland march.
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