EXPECTATIONS

Perfect surf to suit every level of rider, bathwaterwarm water, super friendly locals who like nothing better to share their waves with visitors and a complete lack of crowds – these are the hallmarks of any surfing expedition to the Solomon Islands.

Just a 2-hour ,45-minute flight from Brisbane, the Solomon Islands are one of the very few places left on the planet where boardriders still have the opportunity to name the breaks. The destination literally abounds with waves and especially from October-April when the trade winds switch direction and the swells on the outer reefs can get upwards of 10’. But you can pretty much find waves in the Solomon Islands at any time of year. Just don’t expect size during the off months.

The best way to go is via package including all flights – international and domestic – all meals and accommodation and you do need to make sure the surf camp you are staying at can provide daily boat hire and surf guides such as Papatura Island Retreat.

And you also need to make sure you take all essentials with you – while the surf camps do have some spares, you will need to make sure you pack spare leggies, booties, wax, repair kits, etc. A small first aid kit for those inevitable coral cuts is also an essential.

While there are pockets of Malaria in the Solomon Islands, the Western Province and Santa Isabel are relatively mosquito free, but it is strongly recommended anyone heading there consults their GP or official travel advisory e.g. MFAT for the latest advice.