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Vonavona Lagoon
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Vonavona Lagoon is located in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, positioned between the islands of New Georgia, Kohinggo, and Vonavona. It is renowned for its labyrinthine coral reefs, hundreds of small islets, and exceptional marine biodiversity. Historically, the lagoon is a significant site for the region's headhunting culture, with the famous 'Skull Island' (Lola Island) serving as a shrine for the skulls of former chiefs. The lagoon's waters are crystal clear, providing handy conditions for seagrass meadows and coral gardens that attract numerous fish species and sea turtles. Local communities live in stilt houses directly over the water and rely on dugout canoes for transportation. Today, Vonavona is a hub for ecotourism, focusing on protecting reefs from overfishing and preserving cultural heritage sites.
- Location: Solomon Islands
- Top sights: Munda, Solomon Islands · Kiambe
- Nearby: Lola Island (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Nov, Dec.
| 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 | 308 | 347 | 306 | 238 | 267 | 251 | 288 | 232 | 243 | 254 | 204 | 222 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Vonavona Lagoon is best visited during the dry season from May to October when the mangrove forests are more accessible and the water is clear. The corals in the lagoon then show their brightest colours.
Best time of day
Early morning birds in the mangroves are most active and the lagoon's stillness invites paddling. In the late afternoon the light falls at a low angle, first-rate for photos of the crystal-clear water surface.
Etiquette
Paddle slowly and quietly to avoid startling wildlife and keep distance from mangrove roots which provide habitat for juvenile fish. No motorboats in shallow areas - avoid noise.
What to bring
A kayak or stand-up paddle board is well-suited to silently explore the shallow areas. Waterproof bags for camera and phone as well as a map of the lagoon are recommended.
Getting there
Vonavona Lagoon is easily accessible by boat from Gizo town; many resorts offer kayak rentals. The shallow waters make the lagoon safe even for beginner paddlers.
What to expect
Spotting seahorses and other camouflage masters requires sharp eyes and gentle movement in shallow water. Take your time and let the lagoon drift you - discoveries come by themselves.
Geography
Facts
- Home to the famous 'Skull Island' containing ancestral remains.
- Located between New Georgia and Vonavona Island.
- Consists of a complex network of coral islets and channels.
- Important habitat for the rare dugong (sea cow).
- Characterized by traditional stilt house settlements.
- Center for sustainable dive tourism in the Western Province.
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 Vonavona Lagoon (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Vonavona Lagoon good for snorkeling?
Yes, it features excellent visibility and a biodiverse underwater world.
What is the best way to get there?
By boat from the town of Munda.
Is there accommodation right on the water?
Yes, some eco-lodges are situated right in the lagoon.
Is the area safe?
Yes, but like anywhere in the tropics, use insect protection.
What activities are recommended?
Kayak tours, island hopping, and visits to local craft villages.
Vonavona Lagoon: where is it located?
Vonavona Lagoon is located in Solomon Islands.
Vonavona Lagoon: what is there to see?
Highlights include Munda, Solomon Islands, Kiambe.
Vonavona Lagoon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Nov, Dec.
Vonavona Lagoon: why is it worth visiting?
Vonavona Lagoon is located in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, positioned between the islands of New Georgia, Kohinggo, and Vonavona.
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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.
Gizo
Gizo is the administrative center of the Western Province and is known for its tourism importance.
Gizo Town
The administrative center of the Western Province.
Maru
Maru is a coastal community near Gizo, known for its traditional fishing practices.
Buala
Buala is the capital of Isabel Province, located on the Maringe Lagoon.
Munda
Munda is the largest settlement on the island of New Georgia.
Lambeti
A village near Munda that was the scene of heavy fighting as Allied forces advanced toward the Munda airstrip in 1943.
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Munda Logistics Center
Munda on New Georgia Island serves as a strategic logistics hub.
Taro Island Trade Post
Taro Island is the capital of Choiseul Province.
Taro
Taro is the capital of Choiseul Province, located on a small island in Choiseul Bay.
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Lola Island
A peaceful retreat in the Vonavona Lagoon, home to the Zipolo Habu Resort and famous for its fishing and surfing.
Buni
Buni is a coastal settlement in the Western Province, known for its scenic beauty.
Ringgi Cove
Ringgi Cove is a settlement on the west coast of Kolombangara, serving as a base for forestry operations.
History & landmarks
Honiara City Council
The city council's administrative building is the hub of Honiara's local government.
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Skull Island
A sacred island in the Vonavona Lagoon, housing ancestral skulls and offering deep insight into local headhunting history.
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Vona Vona Lagoon Monuments
The lagoon is rich in historical sites, including war wrecks and traditional graves.
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Skull Island
This small island in the Vona Vona Lagoon houses a shrine with skulls of former chiefs and warriors.
Nature
More places
Noro
Noro is a major industrial town in the Western Province known for its deep-water port.
Choiseul Bay
Choiseul Bay is the main port and entry point for Choiseul Province in the country's northwest.
Munda Airstrip
A strategic airfield on New Georgia built by the Japanese and captured by Americans.
Munda Airfield Monument
Munda Airfield was the site of intense combat.
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Munda Wharf
Munda Wharf is the primary access point to the Roviana Lagoon.
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Peter Joseph WWII Museum
This private museum in Munda displays an impressive collection of WWII relics.
Bairoko Harbor
A heavily fortified Japanese harbor on New Georgia that US forces initially failed to capture in July 1943 despite heavy attacks.
Enogai Inlet
A strategic point in northern New Georgia that was the site of fierce fighting between US Marine Raiders and Japanese defenders in 1943.