A long layover in Suavanao is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Suavanao Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave VAO:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Solomon Islands. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Suavanao takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is SBD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Get Into Suavanao
From VAO, the local transport gets you to Suavanao in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Suavanao Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Suavanao:
Transport to the city and back runs about $8 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $15 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $33 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at VAO
Luggage storage options at VAO can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Suavanao for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Exploring Suavanao on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Suavanao:
Start with City Center Walk. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside VAO, you can spend time at Airport Lounge or try Duty Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Suavanao Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Suavanao: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe or Terminal Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at VAO 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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at VAO 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.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Suavanao exploring the streets or relaxing at VAO, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.