The capital of the Solomon Islands Western Province, Gizo (or Ghizo Island) is renowned for its sparkling lagoons and dramatic volcanic scenery. The area holds vivid reminders of World War II, with numerous historic wrecks resting in the surrounding waters and waiting to be explored.
The Western Province comprises a scattering of islands and shallow-water atolls, many of them uninhabited and pristine. Most are ringed by vibrant coral reefs, offering an exceptional variety of dive sites just a short boat ride away from the dive shop. Divers can explore offshore pinnacles for exhilarating pelagic encounters, or drift along dramatic soft-coral walls and through nutrient-rich channels that attract large schools of barracuda and trevally, as well as passing mobula rays.
Among the highlights is the nearby island of Njari Island, home to the legendary reef known as Grand Central Station aptly named for its extraordinary hive of marine activity. With more than 270 fish species recorded on a single dive, this vibrant reef is met by oceanic currents that attract large pelagic species, creating thrilling and unforgettable underwater encounters. The dive boat can spend the day here on Njari island with lunch on your own private island overlooking paradise islands before making your second dive.
Gizo boats tropical waters of 29-30°C and outstanding visibility.
Gizo and neighbouring regions of the South Pacific were occupied by Japanese forces during World War II, and remains rich in historical significance. Most notably, the late U.S. President John F. Kennedy and his crew were shipwrecked here after their patrol boat, PT-109, was rammed by a Japanese destroyer. They eventually reached Plum Pudding Island, now known as Kennedy Island.
Kennedy Island is a small island fringed by a spectacular coral reef and a white-sand beach, making it an ideal location for learning to dive, great snorkelling, and relaxing surface interval between dives.
World War II wrecks are scattered across the seafloor, including downed aircraft such as an American Hellcat and Corsair, a Japanese Zero, and a float plane all accessible to divers. One of the highlights is the Toa Maru, a Japanese transport vessel lying at depths of approximately 7–37 metres. After running aground in a sheltered bay following an American attack, the wreck has remained largely intact. Divers can still discover artefacts such as sake bottles, medical supplies, ammunition, and even a motorbike. Experienced divers can also explore the interior, navigating swim-throughs that offer a rare and atmospheric glimpse into history beneath the sea.
This remote area in the northeast of the Solomon Islands offers a few different options compared to other settlements in the area. Just southwest of Gizo is Fatboys Resort which is simple accommodation with diving, surfing, village visits, fishing trips and more. With only six rooms it can host small groups and families with ease. For the ultimate relaxing holiday, Sanbis Resort offers higher end accommodation with good food and house reef for snorkelling, the diving hosted by Fatboys Resort a short ocean transfer away.
Liveaboards visit neighbouring regions on a seasonal basis. Both Solomons Master and Emperor Bilikiki visit the Western Province when departing from Honiara, and sometimes combined with Munda. To fully encompass Gizo into a Solomons Island diving holiday it is best to combine a liveaboard with a land-based stay to ensure no dive site is missed.
Gizo is the largest town in the Solomon Islands after the capital Honiara. Gizo town is a lively hub of activity, featuring a bustling waterfront, colourful local markets, and serving as a launchpad to the many nearby islands. Beyond its exceptional diving, the region offers not only scuba diving, but kayaking, snorkelling, surf spots, history and WWII tours, trekking, fishing, village tours, making Gizo a unique experience for adventurous travellers both above and below the water.
Gizo airstrip is a 90-minute flight from Honiara. Flights arrive on a small landing strip located on Nusa Tupe with a short boat crossing to your Gizo hotel or nearby island. Ideal for an island hopping adventure, Gizo can be combined with other resorts in the Solomon Islands including Uepi or a liveaboard trip.
From Honiara, direct international flights to Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Vanuatu, and Australia, are all available. To divers, this opens up a multitude of combinations in the South Pacific which boasts some of the best diving in the world. Contact our specialist dive team to create your perfect scuba diving holiday.
Prepare to be amazed by first class dive sites around the islands of Uepi and Gizo. Expect deserted islands, vast arrays of fish and fauna, outstanding World War II wrecks and some of the most photogenic seascapes in the world. Find Out More about Dive the Solomon Islands
Escape to Fatboys Resort, where eco-conscience comfort meets adventure in the heart of the Solomon Islands. Relax in waterfront villas, savour fresh local cuisine, and dive a remote underwater world. Find Out More about Fatboys Resort
Located on a secluded island, Sanbis Resort features just six exclusive beach bungalows, set amidst coastal trees and coconut palms, with a verandah overlooking the tranquil lagoon and your own sandy beach. Find Out More about Sanbis Island Resort
This luxurious vessel departs Honiara on seven, ten or 14 night adventures to explore the Florida and Russell Islands, Mary Island and Marovo Lagoon. Dive spectacular reefs, caverns and wrecks plus visit a local village. Find Out More about MV Emperor Bilikiki
