Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Honiara gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HIR to the city takes roughly 75 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of HIR:
- Can you legally enter Solomon Islands? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the SBD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SBD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Honiara from HIR
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Honiara Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Honiara:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $12 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $28 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to See and Do in Honiara
Two recommendations for your time in Honiara:
Start with WWII American Memorial. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Then, if time allows, make your way to Honiara Central Market. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HIR, you can spend time at Departure Lounge Relaxation or try Solomon Islands Souvenir Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Honiara Layover
For food in Honiara, local travelers recommend Heritage Park Hotel Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, King Solomon Hotel Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at HIR, Honiara Airport Cafe is the go-to. Departure Lounge Snack Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at HIR aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Honiara itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HIR should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Solomon Islands and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at HIR include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Solomon Islands also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Honiara genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.